If you like detailed combat flight simulators, you will love DCS. Now, is it like the real thing? I don't know I have never flown a fighter plane. But, as game where the dynamics are different, such as there is no feel of G force or vibrations, so the ques you are given in the flight sim are great. I have flown a civilian plane so the views from the cockpits are nice in comparison to the real thing. This sim is very detailed and has a long learning curve, so it's not the type game for those who like a more video game like environment. However, if you like detail and immersion, this game is for you. If you are more interested in the details of civilian flying, then maybe MS fight sim would be more for you. If you love warbirds, this sim has a lot of planes from WWII to more modern planes and everything in between. You can choose to fly alone or multiplayer. Give it a try, you'll love it. Happy Hunting!!