These days Flight simulator games are so far ahead of the former days of X-wing. But today the latest trends in the gaming industry is to match up the precise details of an actual flying course. X-Plane is a flight simulation series of software programs that takes the next leading step in its industry. It is by Laminar Research and has a simulator of flight that's hand-held that can be played on nearly any kind of computer system, whether an iPhone, PC desktop, or iPad from Apple. A multitude of aircraft models can be navigated by this software for X-Planes. It doesn't matter whether it is a slow and cumbersome carrier or a rapidly responding fleet fast fighter plane.

The whole idea of this advanced and extremely realistic type of simulator comes from a place far from the game rooms. NASA engineering, Air Force training, and many aeronautic companies take advantage of simulators to train their jet pilots, test their various plane designs, and develop event-related in-services for their personnel. The X-plane that can be used with an iPad features all the typical benefits of conventional simulation and yet all it takes is a mere fingertip flick of movement to get ready for that perfect landing. Since the iPad features the much larger screen and has a lot more power than some of the other portable pads, it is the ideal device for this type of next generation software package.

The X-plane simulations run by interpreting mathematical models of an airplane's geometry. This data is contrasted against a multitude of variables to find the exact information on speed, acceleration, position relative to the destination, and so forth. Just about every aspect of flying, from wind speed to fuel levels to height, can be measured and recorded on the X-plane 10 simulator. Much of this is technical data that the typical person can use or not use after all, some people just want to have fun with the program, but there is a vast resource of statistics if you are interested. Indeed, the system even offers randomly generated failure responses to test your mettle and nerves.

For anyone who has already played Flight Simulator by Microsoft, you probably already know your way around the X-plane. The fact that Microsoft is going to be letting go of their complete development team indicates that they almost certainly will not be introducing new editions in the immediate future. As a result, X-plane is one of the few flight standards of excellence for die-hard players and Laminar Research is hoping to attract Microsoft veterans. The many similarities between both of these applications make it fun for those pilots that might want to go back and forth between the two.

The X-plane 10, and the slightly older model X plane 9 are possibly the most accommodating and universal program in the world. There really is virtually no limitation on the kinds of aircraft that can be navigated; commercial, private, or military airplanes can be used for this application. Approximately 1400 aircraft in all can be landed in as many as 30,000 airports. The X-plane runs on many platforms, from Linux, Windows, or Mac, including many of the smartphones as well. It truly is at the top of the field.