Since 1995, X-Plane has been at the forefront of flight simulation, continually pushing the boundaries of realism and immersion. X-Plane 12 carries this legacy forward, offering a state-of-the-art simulator that combines real-world physics, unprecedented systems depth, and a true-to-life simulation of the world. Whether you're an aspiring pilot, an aviation enthusiast, or simply seeking an unmatched flying experience, X-Plane 12 is the go-to platform for any aviation fan.

X-Plane 12 takes immersion to new heights with its dramatically improved volumetric clouds and real live weather system. The new volumetric clouds create stunning, dynamic skies that evolve with the weather. Paired with our revamped live weather feature, which updates conditions in real-time based on global meteorological data, every flight feels truly authentic.

X-Plane 12 introduces a new lighting model that transforms the visual experience. With photometric lighting, every surface is rendered with real light intensities, capturing the subtleties of natural light across different times of day and weather conditions. The addition of bloom effects further enhances realism, creating stunning visuals and making every moment feel more vibrant and authentic.

X-Plane 12 redefines environmental realism with its enhanced scenery features. The world comes to life with new 3D trees that sway in the wind, realistic 3D water that reacts naturally to weather, and updated autogen that brings cities and landscapes to vivid detail. Airports are more immersive than ever with fresh textures, moving boats, and over 20,000 3D airports sourced from the X-Plane Gateway, each with unique, community-driven enhancements. Whether flying low over dense forests or landing at a bustling airport, X-Plane 12's scenery creates an unparalleled sense of place and realism.

New Aircraft in X-Plane 12

Airbus A330
Cessna Citation X
BETA Technologies ALIA-250
Lancair Evolution
Cirrus SR22
Piper PA-18 Super Cub
Van's RV-10
F-14 Tomcat
Robinson R22 (plus a floats version)

","background_raw","https://shared.akamai.steamstatic.com/store_item_assets/steam/apps/2014780/page_bg_raw.jpg?t=1756364603","package_groups",[351],{"_12":352,"_353":354,"_367":368,"_369":117,"_73":117,"_370":168,"_371":372,"_373":374},"default","subs",[355],{"_356":126,"_357":358,"_359":103,"_360":168,"_361":117,"_362":115,"_363":364,"_365":366},"packageid","option_text","X-Plane 12 - 58,99€","is_free_license","percent_savings","option_description","can_get_free_license","percent_savings_text"," ","price_in_cents_with_discount",5899,"title","Buy X-Plane 12","save_text","display_type","selection_text","Select a purchase option","is_recurring_subscription","false","price_overview",{"_377":366,"_378":366,"_379":380,"_381":382,"_383":168,"_384":117},"final","initial","currency","EUR","final_formatted","58,99€","discount_percent","initial_formatted","capsule_imagev5","https://shared.akamai.steamstatic.com/store_item_assets/steam/apps/2014780/capsule_184x69.jpg?t=1756364603","pc_requirements",{"_389":390,"_391":392},"minimum","Minimum:

Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 or 11
Processor: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9.
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: A Vulkan 1.3-capable video card from NVIDIA, AMD or Intel Arc GPU with at least 2 GB VRAM
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 23 GB available space
VR Support: SteamVR or Oculus PC
Additional Notes: NVIDIA: GeForce 900 or newer, driver version 510 or newer AMD: AMD Radeon RX 500 or newer, driver version Adrenaline 22.2.1 or newer. Intel: Arc GPUs only

","recommended","Recommended:

Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 or 11
Processor: Intel Core i5 8600k or Ryzen 5 3500 or better
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: A DirectX 12-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 4 GB VRAM
DirectX: Version 12
Storage: 23 GB available space

","recommendations",{"_395":396},"total",4533,"mac_requirements",{"_389":399,"_391":400},"Minimum:

OS: MacOS 12.00 (Monterey) or Newer
Processor: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9.
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: AMD Radeon RX 500 or newer, driver version Adrenaline 22.2.1 or newer
Storage: 23 GB available space

","Recommended:

OS: MacOS 12.00 (Monterey) or Newer
Processor: Intel Core i5 8600k or Ryzen 5 3500 or better, or Apple Silicon
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: Apple Silicon OR AMD Radeon RX 500 or newer, driver version Adrenaline 22.2.1 or newer
Storage: 23 GB available space

","short_description","Ultra-Realistic Flight Simulation","linux_requirements",{"_389":405,"_391":406},"Minimum:

OS: Varies
Processor: Intel Core i3, i5, i7, or i9 CPU with 4 or more cores, or AMD Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9.
Memory: 8 GB RAM
Graphics: A Vulkan 1.3-capable video card from NVIDIA, AMD or Intel Arc GPU with at least 2 GB VRAM
Storage: 23 GB available space
Additional Notes: We have developers using Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and newer successfully, however we don’t provide support for specific distributions. We require proprietary GPU drivers. Intel: Arc GPUs only

","Recommended:

OS: Varies
Processor: Intel Core i5 8600k or Ryzen 5 3500 or better
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: A DirectX 12-capable video card from NVIDIA or AMD with at least 4 GB VRAM
Storage: 23 GB available space
Additional Notes: We have developers using Ubuntu 20.04 LTS and newer successfully, however we don’t provide support for specific distributions. We require proprietary GPU drivers.

","content_descriptors",{"_409":410,"_411":-5},"ids",[],"notes","supported_languages","English*, French, Italian, German, Spanish - Spain, Japanese, Portuguese - Portugal, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Korean, Ukrainian
*languages with full audio support","detailed_description","latest_result",{"_417":418,"_505":506,"_570":571,"_578":579,"_580":581},"emotionsSummary",[419,429,434,439,444,448,452,456,460,464,468,471,475,479,483,487,491,495,498,502],{"_420":421,"_422":423,"_424":423,"_425":426,"_427":428},"point","Satisfaction","weight",0.36831415030467163,"importance","clusterSize",544,"explanation","Players are highly satisfied with the game's realistic flight physics, aerodynamics, and overall simulation depth, often citing its utility for real-life flight training and educational value. The continuous improvements, graphical enhancements (especially lighting and clouds), and the quality of add-ons contribute significantly to a positive and immersive experience, making it a preferred choice for aviation enthusiasts and experienced simmers.",{"_420":430,"_422":431,"_424":431,"_425":432,"_427":433},"Frustration",0.14962762356127285,221,"Frustration primarily stems from technical issues such as poor optimization, frequent crashes, and difficulty with control setup (HOTAS, joysticks). Players also express annoyance with bugs (e.g., ILS approach, autopilot), incomplete features (MCDU), and the high cost or complexity of installing necessary mods and add-ons, which can hinder the overall gameplay experience.",{"_420":435,"_422":436,"_424":436,"_425":437,"_427":438},"Disappointment",0.13676371022342587,202,"Disappointment arises from perceived dated graphics, especially default scenery and textures, when compared to competitors like MSFS. Players are also let down by poor performance on various hardware, lack of certain basic features (e.g., VR support, flight plan realism), and the high cost of essential add-ons, leading to a feeling of incomplete or unpolished experience for the price.",{"_420":440,"_422":441,"_424":441,"_425":442,"_427":443},"Excitement",0.07650643195666892,113,"Players are excited by the game's incredible flying physics, realistic aerodynamic calculations, and the potential for immersive experiences, especially with add-ons and updates. The continuous improvements, stunning visuals, and the feeling of a 'real pilot experience' contribute to a sense of anticipation and enjoyment, making it a 'playable addiction' for many.",{"_420":445,"_422":446,"_424":446,"_425":298,"_427":447},"Appreciation",0.02234258632362898,"Players appreciate the game's commitment to realism, accurate flight models, and its utility for professional use and learning. The stability, Linux support, and the dedicated efforts of the developers (Laminar Research) are also highly valued, fostering a sense of loyalty and respect for the simulator's core principles.",{"_420":449,"_422":450,"_424":450,"_425":282,"_427":451},"Anger",0.01963439404197698,"Anger is primarily directed at the game's perceived lack of functionality, persistent bugs, and poor optimization, leading players to feel 'ripped off' for the price. Issues with refunds and a general sense of the game being a 'waste of money' or a 'steaming mess' contribute to strong negative reactions, particularly when technical problems prevent gameplay.",{"_420":453,"_422":454,"_424":454,"_425":254,"_427":455},"Joy",0.014895057549085985,"Joy is experienced through the sheer fun of flying, especially with basic controls and affordable joysticks, and the overall positive and immersive experience. The game's ability to provide an enjoyable learning experience, combined with improved graphics and Mac support, contributes to a sense of happiness and entertainment.",{"_420":457,"_422":458,"_424":458,"_425":246,"_427":459},"Hope",0.013540961408259987,"Players express hope for future developments, including fixes for bugs, performance improvements, and more detailed scenery and content (e.g., China airport DLC). There's an expectation that developers will continue to work hard on updates and pay attention to player suggestions, leading to a more stable and feature-rich simulator.",{"_420":461,"_422":462,"_424":462,"_425":235,"_427":463},"Confusion",0.011509817197020988,"Confusion arises from the game's complexity, particularly in configuring controls, understanding systems, and finding plugins. Players also express bewilderment regarding developer decisions, the game's purpose compared to competitors, and why others might enjoy a seemingly 'broken' game, leading to difficulties in getting started.",{"_420":465,"_422":466,"_424":466,"_425":227,"_427":467},"Enjoyment",0.010155721056194989,"Players consistently enjoy the genuine feel of flying, the beautiful graphics, and realistic landings, often finding time passes quickly while playing. The variety of gameplay modes, including combat and commercial approaches, along with improved shaders and ATC, contribute to a very fun and engaging experience.",{"_420":469,"_422":466,"_424":466,"_425":227,"_427":470},"Confidence","Confidence stems from the game's perceived superiority over competitors, its FAA certification, and its proven effectiveness for flight training and realistic simulation. Players are confident in the game's quality, accuracy for pilot training, and its ability to provide an excellent platform for aviation enthusiasts.",{"_420":472,"_422":473,"_424":473,"_425":223,"_427":474},"Admiration",0.009478672985781991,"Admiration is directed towards the X-Plane series' superior aerodynamics, flight experience, and the continuous improvement of the simulator. Players are impressed by the incredible realism of physics, detailed processing, and the dedication of the small team behind the game, considering it the 'best pilot simulator'.",{"_420":476,"_422":477,"_424":477,"_425":219,"_427":478},"Relief",0.008801624915368992,"Relief is felt when players find a stable and reliable simulator, often after experiencing issues with competitors like MSFS. Overcoming initial bugs, finding solutions to problems, and the absence of disruptive updates contribute to a sense of ease and satisfaction with the game's performance.",{"_420":480,"_422":481,"_424":481,"_425":215,"_427":482},"Love",0.008124576844955992,"Players express love for the game's physics, mechanics, and overall realism, especially as student pilots. The simulator's immersive qualities, its community, and the comprehensive world editor and documentation contribute to a deep affection for the X-Plane series.",{"_420":484,"_422":485,"_424":485,"_425":211,"_427":486},"Desire",0.007447528774542992,"Players desire more aircraft variants, improved graphics, and better local scenery accuracy. There's a strong wish for integrated tutorials, more default planes and airports, and multiplayer functionality, indicating a longing for expanded content and enhanced features.",{"_420":488,"_422":489,"_424":489,"_425":207,"_427":490},"Concern",0.006770480704129994,"Concern arises from potential performance issues for users with weaker PCs, high VRAM usage, and the high price of the game. Players also worry about the future of X-Plane due to competition and ongoing optimization problems, particularly with AMD GPUs.",{"_420":492,"_422":493,"_424":493,"_425":143,"_427":494},"Optimism",0.006093432633716994,"Players are optimistic about the game's future, believing it will continue to improve with updates and better optimization. There's a strong sense of potential for new players and a belief that visuals and overall performance will steadily get better over time.",{"_420":496,"_422":493,"_424":493,"_425":143,"_427":497},"Recommendation","Players recommend the game due to their overall positive experience, its realistic flight simulation, and its suitability for specific audiences. The game is often deemed 'worth it' and highly recommended, especially when combined with tools like Ortho4XP.",{"_420":499,"_422":500,"_424":500,"_425":200,"_427":501},"Challenge",0.005416384563303994,"Players find the game challenging due to its steep learning curve, the complexity of the simulator, and the constant need to study and master its operations. This difficulty contributes to a rewarding experience for those seeking a high level of realism.",{"_420":503,"_422":500,"_424":500,"_425":200,"_427":504},"Annoyance","Annoyance stems from minor bugs, repetitive workflows, and the need to repeatedly re-configure buttons. Issues like crashes during flights, difficulty downloading specific add-ons, and outdated default content also contribute to a frustrating and irritating experience.","gameInfo",{"_507":508,"_515":516,"_522":523},"usage",{"_509":510,"_511":512,"_513":514},"totalTokens",8222,"promptTokens",7387,"completionTokens",835,"gameCategories",[517,518,519,520,521,138],"Flight Simulation","Training Simulation","Physics Simulation","Open-World Exploration","Customization","mostRequestedFeatures",[524,527,531,535,539,543,547,551,554,557,561,564,567],{"_420":525,"_424":140,"_427":526},"Improved Default Graphics and Scenery","Players consistently report that the game's default graphics, scenery, and visual fidelity are significantly worse than competitors, with dated textures and lack of detail, negatively impacting visual flights.",{"_420":528,"_424":529,"_427":530},"Improved Overall Performance and Optimization",0.9,"Players report inconsistent performance, low frame rates, frequent crashes, and stuttering, perceiving the game as poorly optimized and requiring a very powerful PC, making it inaccessible for many.",{"_420":532,"_424":533,"_427":534},"More Default Aircraft and Variety",0.8,"Players are dissatisfied with the limited number and variety of default aircraft, particularly airliners, and the high cost of expanding the fleet through third-party add-ons.",{"_420":536,"_424":537,"_427":538},"Better Tutorials and Onboarding for Beginners",0.7,"The game is considered very difficult for new players due to a lack of tutorials, complex controls, and challenging configuration, leading to a steep learning curve.",{"_420":540,"_424":541,"_427":542},"Improved VR Performance and Optimization",0.6,"The game's VR support is widely criticized for poor performance, low frame rates, and significant lag, making it largely unplayable with blurry visuals and motion sickness.",{"_420":544,"_424":545,"_427":546},"General Bug Fixes",0.5,"Players report numerous bugs, including specific issues with the default A330 aircraft (avionics, MCDU, aerodynamics), aircraft compatibility, stability issues causing crashes, and general minor bugs.",{"_420":548,"_424":549,"_427":550},"Real-time Weather Improvements",0.3,"Players are looking forward to future updates, particularly for real-time weather improvements.",{"_420":552,"_424":549,"_427":553},"Clearer Communication/Automatic Download of Essential Scenery DLCs","New players are confused by an all-water world, which is resolved by manually downloading free global scenery DLCs, a step not clearly communicated.",{"_420":555,"_424":549,"_427":556},"Additional Features (General)","There is a general desire for the development team to continue refining the simulator and address current limitations with additional features.",{"_420":558,"_424":559,"_427":560},"Multiplayer Functionality",0.2,"Players express a desire for multiplayer functionality.",{"_420":562,"_424":559,"_427":563},"Faster Loading Times","One player reported a program loading time of 3 minutes, indicating potentially slow initial startup.",{"_420":565,"_424":559,"_427":566},"Fixes for Steam DLC Download Issues","Some users have experienced problems with DLC downloads via Steam, leading to requests for fixes or clearer instructions.",{"_420":568,"_424":559,"_427":569},"More Regional Airport DLCs","There is a specific request for a China airport DLC, indicating a desire for more regional content.","summary",[572,573,574,575,576,577],"Enhanced graphics and visuals","Unmatched flight physics and realism","Excellent for pilot training","Improved performance and stability","Limited and expensive content","Difficult for 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(Steam)","genre","Video Game","aggregateRating",{"_630":644,"_645":646,"_647":648,"_649":168,"_650":605,"_651":605},"AggregateRating","ratingValue",75,"bestRating",100,"worstRating","ratingCount","reviewCount","reviewRating",{"_630":654,"_645":646,"_647":648,"_649":168},"Rating","author",{"_630":657,"_12":658,"_340":659},"Organization","VaporLens","https://vaporlens.app","reviewBody","Enhanced graphics and visuals\nUnmatched flight physics and realism\nExcellent for pilot training\nImproved performance and stability\nLimited and expensive content\nDifficult for beginners","datePublished","2025-09-07","dateModified","publisher",{"_630":657,"_12":658,"_340":659},"actionData","errors"]

X-Plane 12

Categories

Emotions