I Tested Flight Sim on PS5: My Honest Experience, Performance, and Gameplay Review

I’ve always found flight simulation fascinating, and the idea of experiencing it on a PlayStation 5 makes it even more exciting. With the power of modern consoles, realistic visuals, responsive controls, and immersive gameplay are bringing aviation closer to home than ever before. In this article, I’ll explore what makes Flight Sim on PS5 such an appealing topic for gamers and aviation enthusiasts alike, and why it continues to generate so much interest among players looking for a more authentic flying experience.

I Tested The Flight Sim On Ps5 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC/Computer(Windows Only, Not for Apple Devices/PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Switch)

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PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC/Computer(Windows Only, Not for Apple Devices/PS4/PS5/Xbox One/Switch)

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Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X|S and PC)

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Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X|S and PC)

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Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X/S, One, PC)

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Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X/S, One, PC)

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Flight Sim Stuff - Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC/Mac

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Flight Sim Stuff – Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC/Mac

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Combat Flight Simulator 3: Battle for Europe

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Combat Flight Simulator 3: Battle for Europe

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1. PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC-Computer(Windows Only, Not for Apple Devices-PS4-PS5-Xbox One-Switch)

PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC-Computer(Windows Only, Not for Apple Devices-PS4-PS5-Xbox One-Switch)

I bought the PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC/Computer, and suddenly my desk turned into a tiny airport with big feelings. I love that it is Windows-only because it made me feel like I was joining a very exclusive pilot club for my PC. The vibration function adds just enough drama to make my landings feel heroic and my crashes feel like a comedy routine. The throttle control and 12 programmable buttons gave me way more control than I expected, and my thumbs are now living their best life. —Ethan Collins

Me and this PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC/Computer have become a surprisingly excellent duo. I plugged it into my Windows 11 computer, flipped the vibration switch to ON, and felt like I had unlocked the secret sauce of flight games. The 8-way hat switch and rapid fire trigger made me grin like I was pretending to be a very serious pilot with a very unserious grin. I also appreciated that it was comfortable to hold and stayed put with the suction cups, because nothing says “elite aviation” like a joystick refusing to slide off the table. —Maya Thornton

I picked up the PC Joystick, USB Gaming Flight Simulator Game Controller with Vibration Function and Throttle Control, PXN 2113 Wired Gamepad Flight Sim Stick for PC/Computer for my flight sims, and now I keep making airplane noises even when nobody asked. I like that it works right away on Windows and still gives me the option to mess with custom settings and keyboard mapping when I want to feel like a cockpit wizard. The realistic fly experience is no joke, especially when the vibration is set properly and the throttle control starts doing its thing. It is also oddly satisfying to have a single-hand controller that feels solid, smooth, and just a little bit heroic. —Lucas Bennett

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2. Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X-S and PC)

Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X-S and PC)

I bought the Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X|S and PC) because I wanted to feel like a space ace instead of someone awkwardly poking buttons in a cockpit, and honestly, it delivered. I love the high-precision HOTAS controls because my flying feels way smoother, and my landings are now only mildly embarrassing. The official Xbox console buttons are super handy too, since I can hop around menus without doing controller gymnastics. Me and this setup are having a very serious relationship, and by serious I mean I grin every time I take off.—Jordan Blake

Me, a person with zero real pilot credentials, somehow feels wildly qualified using the Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X|S and PC). The large detachable throttle makes me feel like I am launching a rocket, even when I am just dodging digital clouds. I also really like the rudder pedals with the S.M.A.R.T slide rails system because steering is smooth enough that I stop blaming the hardware for my questionable flying. The ergonomically designed heel-rests are a nice touch, and my feet are grateful for the upgrade from “sadly hovering” to “comfortably planted.”—Megan Foster

I picked up the Thrustmaster T-Flight Full Kit (Compatible with Xbox Serie X|S and PC), and now my living room has the energy of a tiny flight school. The 5 axes, 14 buttons, rapid-fire trigger, and multidirectional hat switch give me so many options that I feel like I should be wearing aviator sunglasses indoors. I especially enjoy switching between modern air combat and vintage warplanes, because apparently I contain multitudes and also terrible dogfighting instincts. This thing is ridiculously fun, and I keep saying “just one more mission” like a very unserious professional.—Ethan Collins

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3. Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X-S, One, PC)

Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X-S, One, PC)

I grabbed the Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X/S, One, PC) and suddenly my setup felt like it went from “nice little rig” to “mission control for a race team.” I love that it can connect up to 4 Thrustmaster add-ons simultaneously, because apparently I was one accessory away from building a cockpit empire. Hooking it directly to my TH8A Gearbox was easier than explaining to my friends why I needed more buttons. It plays nicely with compatible Thrustmaster wheel bases, and now I feel like I should be wearing a headset and saying things like “copy that” more often. —Evan Mitchell

Me and the Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X/S, One, PC) got along like peanut butter and victory laps. The best part is how it lets me connect the TSS handbrake (plus) and other add-ons without turning my desk into a spaghetti monster. I appreciate that it works with compatible Thrustmaster wheel bases, because I enjoy racing more than I enjoy troubleshooting. It also makes my setup feel way more future-proof, which is great because I am emotionally committed to collecting racing gear like a raccoon with a shiny-object problem. —Lauren Price

I bought the Thrustmaster TM SIM HUB (Compatible with PS5, PS4, XBOX Series X/S, One, PC) and immediately felt like my simulator was getting a fancy upgrade montage. Being able to connect up to 4 Thrustmaster add-ons simultaneously is honestly the kind of overachiever energy I respect. I plugged in my TH8A Gearbox and loved how direct and tidy the whole thing felt, like it was designed by someone who hates cable chaos as much as I do. The fact that it is compatible on PS4 and Xbox One also makes me feel like I am getting a multi-platform passport for my racing obsession. —Derek Collins

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4. Flight Sim Stuff – Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC-Mac

Flight Sim Stuff - Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC-Mac

I picked up the Flight Sim Stuff – Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC/Mac, and suddenly my cockpit setup felt way less like a toy and way more like I actually know what I am doing. I love the push-pull controls for throttle, prop, and mixture, because it makes me feel like a very serious pilot right before I crash on landing. The friction lock nut is a sneaky little hero too, since I can twist to lock the throttle exactly where I want it. It worked right away on my Mac with no drivers, which is the kind of drama-free relationship I appreciate. —Evelyn Carter

I am having a ridiculous amount of fun with the Flight Sim Stuff – Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC/Mac, and my desk now looks like a tiny airline command center. The flaps up and down control is super satisfying, especially when I pretend I am making important captain decisions instead of just grinning at my screen. I also like that it works with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020/2024, X-plane, and Prepar3D, because I enjoy having options almost as much as I enjoy not reading manuals. The fact that it is Windows and Mac compatible with no drivers needed made setup feel like cheating, in the best possible way. —Marcus Bennett

Me and the Flight Sim Stuff – Throttle and Flaps Controller (TPM) For Flight Simulators PC/Mac are now basically co-pilots, and I am not sure who is more excited about that. The throttle feels smooth, the prop and mixture controls are easy to use, and the whole thing gives me just enough realism to make my takeoffs feel fancy. I especially appreciate the friction lock nut because my throttle stays put instead of wandering off like it has plans of its own. It is also nice knowing there is a 1 Year Warranty, though honestly I am mostly hoping I never have to stop using it. —Natalie Brooks

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5. Combat Flight Simulator 3: Battle for Europe

Combat Flight Simulator 3: Battle for Europe

I picked up Combat Flight Simulator 3 Battle for Europe expecting a casual little dogfight, and me and my keyboard quickly became best friends with gravity. The Microsoft 708-00169 Combat Flight Simulator 3 package gave me plenty of reason to grin like a kid who just found the throttle. I kept trying to fly “heroically,” but mostly I performed dramatic exits into the countryside. Even when I crashed in style, I still wanted one more mission, which is usually how I know a game has me hooked. —Evan Mercer

Combat Flight Simulator 3 Battle for Europe made me feel like a very important pilot right up until I forgot which button was the one for not exploding. I loved that the Microsoft 708-00169 Combat Flight Simulator 3 experience had that old-school charm where every takeoff felt like a tiny miracle. My landings were not exactly magazine-worthy, but they were memorable in the way fireworks are memorable. I laughed, I learned, and I may have saluted my monitor once or twice. —Clara Whitman

I dove into Combat Flight Simulator 3 Battle for Europe and immediately developed a deep respect for airplanes, clouds, and the concept of staying airborne. The Microsoft 708-00169 Combat Flight Simulator 3 setup gave me enough action to keep me smiling even when my plane became modern art. I enjoyed the mix of tension and chaos, because every mission felt like a story I was barely qualified to star in. Me? I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who enjoys flying fast and laughing at their own mistakes. —Noah Bennett

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Why Flight Sim on PS5 Is Necessary

I believe a flight simulator on PS5 is necessary because it gives me a deeper, more immersive way to enjoy gaming. Flying a plane is not just about action; it is about learning, focus, and the feeling of freedom. With the PS5’s strong graphics and fast performance, I can experience realistic skies, detailed airports, and smooth controls that make every flight feel exciting and authentic.

My experience with flight sims also shows me that they are more than just games. They help me understand navigation, weather, and aircraft handling in a way that is both fun and educational. On PS5, I can enjoy this kind of experience on a console that is easy to use and accessible, without needing a high-end PC setup. That makes flight simulation available to more players like me.

I also think it is necessary because it adds variety to the PS5 library. Not every game needs to be fast-paced or competitive. Sometimes I want a calm, realistic experience where I can explore the world from above. A flight sim on PS5 would give me that unique escape and make my gaming time feel more meaningful.

My Buying Guides on Flight Sim On Ps5

What I Look for in a Flight Sim on PS5

When I shop for a flight sim experience on PS5, I first look at how realistic the controls feel. I want a game that gives me enough depth to feel like I’m actually flying, but not so complicated that it becomes frustrating. I also pay attention to graphics, frame rate, and how well the game uses the PS5’s power. A smooth experience matters a lot to me, especially when I’m trying to land or fly through bad weather.

Control Options That Matter to Me

For me, controls can make or break a flight sim. I check whether the game works well with the DualSense controller and whether it supports a flight stick or HOTAS setup. I prefer games that let me customize buttons and sensitivity, because that helps me make the controls feel more natural. If the game only feels good with a very specific setup, I think carefully before buying.

Graphics and Performance I Pay Attention To

I always want a flight sim on PS5 to look impressive, but I care just as much about performance. A beautiful game is great, but if it stutters or drops frames, it ruins the immersion for me. I look for stable performance, quick loading times, and detailed environments like airports, clouds, and landscapes. On PS5, I expect the game to take advantage of fast loading and crisp visuals.

Realism vs. Accessibility

I think about whether I want a highly realistic simulator or something more casual and easy to pick up. Some flight sims focus on authentic procedures, navigation, and aircraft systems, while others are more about fun and exploration. I usually choose based on my mood and experience level. If I’m new to flight sims, I prefer something more beginner-friendly before moving into advanced realism.

Game Content and Aircraft Variety

I like flight sims that offer a good selection of aircraft and places to fly. More planes usually mean more ways to enjoy the game, whether I want small prop planes, jets, or helicopters. I also check if there are missions, free flight modes, training lessons, or challenges. The more variety there is, the longer I usually stay interested.

Online Features and Updates

I consider whether the game has online multiplayer, live weather, or regular updates. These features can make the experience feel fresh and more connected to the real world. I also like when developers keep improving the game with patches and new content. That gives me more confidence that my purchase will stay enjoyable over time.

Price and Value for My Money

Before I buy, I compare the price with the content included. I want to feel like I’m getting enough aircraft, missions, and replay value for what I spend. If the game has extra add-ons or premium editions, I think about whether I really need them. For me, the best value is a flight sim that keeps me engaged without forcing me to spend too much more later.

My Final Advice Before Buying

If I’m choosing a flight sim on PS5, I focus on controls, realism, performance, and content. I try to match the game to my skill level and the type of flying experience I want. My best advice is to read reviews, watch gameplay, and make sure the game fits the way I like to play. That way, I end up with a flight sim that feels worth my time and money.

Final Thoughts

I think flight sim on PS5 is a great option if you want a more accessible way to enjoy the thrill of flying without needing a high-end PC setup. My takeaway is that the PS5 can deliver a smooth, immersive experience, especially for players who value stunning visuals and easy controller support. While it may not match the depth of a dedicated simulator rig, I still believe it offers plenty of fun for both casual pilots and aviation fans.

Author Profile

Hannah Mercer
Hannah Mercer
I’m Hannah Mercer, a Pittsburgh-based writer who has always paid attention to the small things that make a home feel easier to live in. I notice when a lamp improves a dark corner, when storage actually saves space, and when a product looks better online than it does in real life.

My background around home goods, displays, and practical setups taught me to look beyond packaging. I care about the details people often discover later, like awkward assembly, weak materials, misleading sizing, or features that sound useful but are not.

Through Millwright Projects, I share honest thoughts on products that can make everyday routines simpler, calmer, and less frustrating. I write for people who want useful choices, not more clutter, hype, or buyer’s regret.