Just in case anyone missed this, Microsoft FSX Gold can be bought direct from Microsoft as a download here:http://marketplace.x...15-d8044d530935This is great for everyone, it's an easy way for new people to get the game, by just emailing a link, rather than search for it in retail. So, when you run into folks out there who seem interested in a flight simulator, and they want to give it a try, just send them the link.Whenever I speak to people who have never tried FSX, FS2004, etc., I explain it to them like this:"How would you like to fly any aircraft, from a Cessna 172 to a Boeing 747, anywhere in the world? Alaska, Japan, London, Paris, Australia, Africa, etc" I always get a wide-eyed response like, "You can do that? Anywhere? Where can I get the game?" And my response is "You can find it at major retailers" knowing, they probably either won't find it or ever get out to the store. Now I will just email them a link.Don't forget, get KIDS flying. This stuff makes a fantastic, different kind of gift ($30 or $60 gets them FSX plus a flight stick). Also, your local air Museum should all at least have a computer with a copy of FSX running. Our local museum has five full workstations and they are always full. Make sure they put this stuff in their shop too.If you want to set a user up with FSX, they will also need a controller and many won't be able to spend $150+, however, those that are truly interested in real flying are. For most, here are some cheap alternatives: Here is a cheap Logitech ($25):http://www.bestbuy.c...stick&cp=1&lp=3Here is a cheap Saitek ($20):http://www.bestbuy.c...stick&cp=1&lp=7I have not tried this one from Thustmaster, but it looks pretty good for the money ($50):http://www.bestbuy.c...tick&cp=1&lp=15Scott.

Cool. That's an interesting and positive development. :(

Nice link and post Scott, would be nice to have that , or somewhat of an announcement of that, stickied on the FSX forum - especially now with the influx of new members due to the release of Flight.More and more customers are opting for digital downloads of new software - I am one that always seemed to want that cd or dvd and box in the past, but even I am now getting to where I prefer buying and downloading the software - I get Quicken and Turbotax every year, and for the last two years I have changed over to the digital download offering.

.... it looks pretty good for the money ($50):http://www.bestbuy.c...tick&cp=1&lp=15Scott.

It is. I bought one when I had some problems with my X52 (solved since) and I was surprised by its qualities: sturdy and precise. Il still have it in a box somewhere, just in case.

Edited March 4, 201214 yr by Jean-Paul Mes

Great post, now more than ever we need to bring FSX forward as the great sim that it really is. Imagine that, being able to fly whatever you want where ever you want without having to pay for every thing again and again.Bryan.

Fantastic! Thanks for the information!!

Great post, thanks!I watched the MS Flight Simulator X promo video, and said to myself: "Wow, this looks awesome I want it, now"..Wait a minute...?I have it already, har-har! :(

Edited March 4, 201214 yr by Tor

It's been there for awhile as I started to buy it once when I lost my set, but, "This software uses digital rights management software (“DRM”). DRM may limit the number of times you are permitted to install this software on a computer and/or the number of computers to which you may install the software. To function properly, DRM downloads certain data and files to your computer, which may or may not be uninstalled when you uninstall the software."Had me worried as I routinely slick my pc once it gets chuggy. The specifics seemed to vague to risk it.

Edited March 4, 201214 yr by ohsirus

Just in case anyone missed this, Microsoft FSX Gold can be bought direct from Microsoft as a download here:http://marketplace.x...15-d8044d530935

That is great, but really curious.I guess (and hope) that means that Microsoft thinks that FLIGHT will drive business towards FSX. Can't think of better news than that for our community.Kind regards,

That is great, but really curious.I guess (and hope) that means that Microsoft thinks that FLIGHT will drive business towards FSX. Can't think of better news than that for our community.Kind regards,

Not sure about that, the standard version of FSX was available for download at some time in the past anyway just not acceleration or the gold version.I really don't think Microsoft want anything to hinder the sucess of Flight although as some people have pointed out the lack of advertising before and after release is surprising for a new product. Maybe Microsoft are not really commited to Flight at all, and just put the product out as a feeler so to speak.Bryan.

Edited March 4, 201214 yr by bsmfinegan

This is great news :) Easier to purchase for many customers. Just looking at the release date :( 'Release date: 1/6/2011'?

Very nice! Very weird for MS to offer FSX online on the Marketplace. But I bought my FSX from Simmarket the day it came out quite those years ago...

Will Microsoft deliver any DLC for FSX, like Flight?

Will Microsoft deliver any DLC for FSX, like Flight?

Or a long awaited SP3.. :(

If you want to set a user up with FSX, they will also need a controller

HelloConsider setting them up with Flight!, It's free and their existing gamepad will be fine, In the Flight! forum even REAL pilots are flying with the mouse it is that well implemented.Did I mention its Free!