Whether it’s realistic flight simulation, aerial combat, or soaring through space, these games offer something for everyone. Some bend reality for a more thrilling flight experience. Here are the 10 best flying games.
10. Red Wings: Aces of the Sky
Players seeking aerial dogfighting will love the advanced aerodynamics in 2020’s Red Wings: Aces of the Sky. Command over 10 WWII-era aircraft and engage in battles straight from the pages of history. You’ll assist the legendary Red Baron as you learn to be an ace in your own right. The gameplay offers solo and local co-op.
9. Star Wars: Squadrons
Star Wars: Squadrons is a 2020 game featuring flight simulation and space combat. Some of the most iconic ships in the Star Wars franchise history are included. Engage in intense 5v5 fighter pilot dogfights among the stars or on one of the many well-known planets of the Star Wars universe. It also features unique maneuvering tactics and controls.
8. Wings of Power: WWII Heavy Bombers and Jets
Wings of Power: WWII Heavy Bombers and Jets is an add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004: A Century of Flight. It offers players 50 different historical missions that were taken from the actual logs of World War II pilots who flew those missions. Another add-on followed: Wings of Power II: WWII Fighters.
7. Combat Flight Simulator 3
Combat Flight Simulator 3 from 2002 is a heavily updated version of the first Microsoft combat flight simulator with far wider options. It’s one of the best spinoffs from the original. It features an engaging campaign based on true events. Players control various combat planes to change the tide of war. If they fail, there’s an alternate dark history outcome.
6. Xtreme Air Racing
Xtreme Air Racing is a 2001 flight simulation and racing game that is now considered abandonware available for download online. There are over 25 aircraft and 20 courses to select from. You can compete against up to 8 other players or the computer. Either way, this game pushes your skills every time. The gameplay delivers a constant sense of excitement.
5. Enemy Engaged: RAH-66 Comanche Versus Ka-52 Hokum
Enemy Engaged: RAH-66 Comanche Versus Ka-52 Hokum is a 2000 combat flight simulator centered on attack helicopters. It’s a sequel to Enemy Engaged: Apache vs Havoc and has many similarities. Fans praise the game for its hyperrealism and aeronautic physics. Moreover, the attention to detail in its sound design is impressive.
4. Heroes Of The Pacific
Heroes of the Pacific is a 2005 aerial combat simulation set in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. The player takes on the role of an American pilot throughout various phases of the Pacific war who’s driven by revenge. The game emphasizes the story and features numerous historically accurate events and references.
3. Fighter Ace 3.5 Online
Fighter Ace 3.5 Online was a 2002 MMO set during the events of World War II. Players could take the role of a pilot for the Allied Forces or the Axis Powers. Unfortunately, the servers were shut down in 2010. The developers released Fighter Ace Deluxe Edition, the final version of the game, meant to be played offline.
2. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown
The 2019 combat flight simulator Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown returns to its traditional setting of Strangereal. It follows fighter pilot “Trigger” amid a war between the countries of Osea and Erusea. Players can choose from 28 different aircraft and download an additional nine. The game deviates from some realistic features to provide a more fun experience for players.
Read More: The 10 Best Space Combat Games
1. Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020)
After 14 years, the series returns with Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020). Players with a true passion for flight and aerodynamics will be pleased. Microsoft has always strived for the best possible flight simulator experience and has truly hit the mark. MFS reaches new heights with the inclusion of its VR features. Flying fans will find endless enjoyment here.
