While the last Flight Simulator and their increasingly impressive graphics are making the web vibrate, many are those who dream of taking back the controls of an airplane! Unfortunately, not everyone has a machine powerful enough to run the beast from the French studio Asobo…
But don't panic, there are much lighter alternatives that allow you to enjoy the joys of flight simulation without breaking the bank on your PC (or your wallet). After telling you about a site that lets you play first versions of Flight Simulator, here are GeoFS, a free online flight simulator, accessible directly from your browser.
GeoFS, a fun online Flight Simulator!
Of course, the graphics and textures (of the free version) of GeoFS are light years away from Flight Simulator recent, but the simulation remains very correct, and it is quite possible to have fun while flying from start to finish. This video of a flight between Hyderabad and New Delhi in India, shot entirely on Geo-FS, shows this:
Created in 2010, GeoFS was originally a simple plugin for Google Earth, Known under the name of Google Earth Flight Simulator. But following the latter's closure, the game migrated to Cesium, an Open Source alternative.
A wide choice of planes and accessible gameplay
On GeoFS you have a choice of several device types, ranging from small aerobatic plane au large airliner, including military aircraft such as theAlphaJet of the Patrouille de France. In short, something to vary the pleasures depending on your mood of the moment!
Gameplay-wise, no need for a state-of-the-art cockpit :
- The plane is controlled on keyboard and mouse, with the possibility of using a joystick for more immersion.
- Most flight instruments are available, allowing realistic navigation.
- You can choose from take off from a runway, be on landing approach, or even fly free wherever you want.
- Many camera angles are available to admire the scenery or follow the action from different angles.
Limited graphics but an affordable HD option
The free version of the game offers basic graphics, sufficient for flying but far from the photorealistic standards of modern simulators. However, if you want to improve the visual experience, GeoFS offers a premium option at only €12 per year. This paid version allows you to enjoy the high definition maps from Bing, the same ones used in Flight Simulator!
And good news: you can test this HD version for free for a day before you decide.
An active community and a multiplayer mode!
GeoFS is not limited to a single-player experience: the game offers a multiplayer mode which allows you to meet other pilots in flight and even interact with them! It's a good way to share your flights, to attempt group maneuvers or even to simulate scenarios with other players (emergency landing, formation flying, etc.).
The community is quite active, and there are even forums and discord servers where simulation enthusiasts exchange tips and challenges to try.
Some challenges to spice up your flights!
If you like challenges, here are some cool ideas to try on GeoFS:
- Landing on an aircraft carrier : Yes, it is possible, but it requires surgical precision!
- Weathering a storm : Activate difficult weather and try to keep your plane under control.
- Take a world tour : It might take a long time, but who knows... with a good supply of coffee, anything is possible!
- Trying to break speed records : Some players enjoy testing the limits of aerodynamics with ultra-fast planes.
Why try GeoFS?
In summary, GeoFS is a accessible, fun and light flight simulator, ideal for those who want to fly without investing in a high-performance machine. With its free version, its multiplayer mode and its affordable HD option, it is a great alternative for all virtual aviation enthusiasts.
So, ready to take flight?
Try GeoFS here: https://www.geo-fs.com
