Microsoft Flight Simulator: A Blast from the Past

For those who fondly remember their early days of flight simulation, Microsoft's iconic offering is sure to bring back memories of simpler times. Released regularly over the years with each new iteration promising significant improvements in both technology and realism, it’s no surprise that this classic title remains an endearing part of many a sim pilot’s history.

However, as we hurtle headfirst into the 21st century, even the most ardent fans may find themselves yearning for something more... well, more. And perhaps nowhere is this felt more keenly than when attempting to takeoff from the runway in Microsoft Flight Simulator's latest iteration – a task that feels disturbingly sluggish compared to its modern counterparts.

To put it bluntly, taking off from standstill in MSFS can feel like trying to coax an overweight elephant out of a swimming pool. The slow acceleration and lacklustre climb rate make even shortish runways feel positively treacherous, as if the very laws of physics themselves have conspired against you. And don't even get me started on attempting takeoff during poor weather conditions – forget about it!

So why is this still happening in 2023? After all, other flight simulators out there seem to manage such basic tasks with ease and aplomb. The answer lies not so much within the software itself but rather in its age-old roots.

You see, Microsoft Flight Simulator was and has always been a product of its time – literally. Following the timeline, a new edition would launch every few years whenever there was a significant jump in technology that allowed for improvements to be made. And let’s face it; those were simpler times indeed!

In contrast, today's flight simulators are built with far more sophisticated engines and advanced physics engines at their disposal. The result? Smooth, realistic handling that puts the real thing firmly in its sights.

But back to MSFS – despite its age showing through in areas like takeoff performance (or lack thereof), there’s still a certain charm about it that continues to draw sim pilots back time and again. Perhaps it's nostalgia talking, but for many of us old-timers, nothing beats the raw thrill of lining up on the runway, feet firmly pressed down on the pedals as we slowly – agonisingly slowly at times! – coax our virtual machine into life.

And then, suddenly, there you are: hurtling skyward in a blur of smoke and noise, engine roar filling your ears as you leave all cares behind. Okay maybe not all cares – but certainly any thoughts about the slow takeoff process that preceded it!

So if you're looking for a blast from the past or simply want to experience flight simulation like they used to do it (slowly), then Microsoft Flight Simulator might just be right up your alleyway.

In conclusion, while MSFS may not have aged particularly well in certain areas – namely its woefully slow takeoff performance – there's still something endearing about this classic title that continues to captivate sim pilots of all ages. So dust off those old flight sticks folks and get ready for a nostalgic trip back into the past with Microsoft Flight Simulator!

Liftoff simulator too slow