The problem is the lifetime memberships, though that's not what anyone wants to hear. The purchasers are not at fault, they simply took advantage of the best offer they could and want to keep getting the terms they payed for. Any changes in this will only create hostilities (though for new purchasers it could be eliminated).A lifetime package draws in more customers to start with (why it's good at first) but after some time, most of your core buyers have it and there's no longer the amount of money coming in from new people that there once was. Although I'm sure Justin had the best intentions for this, it has come back to bite him in the end.The week economy has nothing to do with this. It's been noted many times that in a week economy, people will still make purchases on small items to entertain themselves or make them feel better about themselves.

You are partially correct. However, from what I've seen, the lifetime members (I am one) have been the among biggest contributors when needed. You are DEAD WRONG if you think the weak economy has no effect. People will make small purchases, true, but mainly for needed items. Entertainment items are among the last items.Justin has since ceased the lifetimes.Vic

FSGenesis is a strobe light in the FS addon business and deserves our support. I've had Justin's mesh it for years and wouldn't set up FS without it. I made a small donation and certainly hope FSG is around when the economy turns....

Justin has since ceased the lifetimes.Vic

That's not entirely accurate. There were 7 left. Now there are only 6 left... :(

That's not entirely accurate. There were 7 left. Now there are only 6 left... :(

I stand corrected Bill. I thought he stopped them in favor of the yearly subscription.Vic

You are partially correct. However, from what I've seen, the lifetime members (I am one) have been the among biggest contributors when needed. You are DEAD WRONG if you think the weak economy has no effect. People will make small purchases, true, but mainly for needed items. Entertainment items are among the last items.Justin has since ceased the lifetimes.Vic

I'm not attacking anyone here. I'm just stating the likely cause and effect. As for the weak economy, it will force people to put off big purchases. But small entertainment purchases still go on. People feel bad about the economy and everything in general, a small entertainment purchase that adds to a hobby that takes their mind off the economy is common. Look at all the housewives that get their hair done up, etc. in a bad economy. The expensive dresses, jewelry and appliances may slip, but the small things that make people feel better about themselves or take them away from their economic troubles still continue. A new PC, graphics card, or monitor might be put off, but less expensive entertainment purchases (games, addons, etc.) still continue.

I have the DVDs and if you can get them, that's the way to go. I have used them after several computer crashes, and they are among the first addons to get back to flying. If I had nothing else, they would be enough for me to get started. JUST DO IT! Justin's support is incredible.Stan

I'm not attacking anyone here. I'm just stating the likely cause and effect. As for the weak economy, it will force people to put off big purchases. But small entertainment purchases still go on. People feel bad about the economy and everything in general, a small entertainment purchase that adds to a hobby that takes their mind off the economy is common. Look at all the housewives that get their hair done up, etc. in a bad economy. The expensive dresses, jewelry and appliances may slip, but the small things that make people feel better about themselves or take them away from their economic troubles still continue. A new PC, graphics card, or monitor might be put off, but less expensive entertainment purchases (games, addons, etc.) still continue.

I have to disagree, small, unnecessary items are often the first thing to go, look at Starbucks, their sales are way down. I've cut back on my flight sim buying and other unnecessary small purchases. No buisiness is escaping the worst economic downturn since the great depression. Everybody who is selling a product is effected this time around, to say otherwise is just being naive.

I just ordered my DVD/CD copies of the various FSX sceneries from FSGenesis. I encourage others to do so as well. Hopefully they will be here soon. There is some sort of land class download I get as well. I already have Ultimate Terrain USA/Canada, so I am no sure how much improvement the downloaded FSGenesis Land Class will offer. Maybe some of you have some insight. I will enjoy the elevation data though.RH

A coffee from $tarbucks lasts how long? About an hour or less before being flushed... :( A DVD of Justin's fine work lasts quite a bit longer... :(