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Ok, I’ll admit it. I like flight simulators, but only if they are simplified. I really enjoyed Microsoft’s Combat Flight Simulator so I was looking forward to reviewing this game too. My eagerness evaporated the minute I took a look at the manual that accompanies MS Flight Simulator 2000…this simply was too much simulation for my tastes. However, I had to review the game, so keep in mind that I am reviewing it for those of us out there who don’t fly real planes.

You should have a thorough knowledge of MS Flight Simulator before you begin this game because there are a number of additional manuals (online) included with this game that you will be required to know before you can handle this aircraft with any sort of competence (especially since the instrument panel is “probably the most complete to date.”) The manuals include panel operations & systems, description of flight computer, checklists, non-normal checklists (failures), and scripts for the adventures.

The first thing to understand (duh…) is that 767 is actually an add-on to the MS Flight Simulator and that you need to have both installed before you can start the simulation. Now, once in the game you can choose to fly the aircraft using various pre-set “adventures” that the developer created. There are a number of different adventures ranging from simple free flight, training modules, and finally failures (engine failure, etc.).

The controls for this game are understandably complex as they mimic the actual controls of a real 767. For us novice flight simulator “players” this leads to a number of problems. However, I can see how someone who is actually a pilot (or wants to play a VERY realistic simulator) would find this appealing.

The graphics are great and Wilco allows you to choose from a number of airlines to model your aircraft’s paint scheme from. The control panel looks great.

Finally, the flight characteristics of the 767 seem to be accurately portrayed (I say seem to be since I have never actually flown a 767!!!).

I was impressed with the overall quality of the simulation and would recommend it to those gamers that are looking for something different or to those pilots out there who would like to see what it is like to fly an a “big” jet.