MSFS 2020 question (when linked to PSX)

[Will]

I am not interested in an aircraft model at all -- the only thing I want is a camera that will move through space. (I don't even care if the engines are running or even if there are engines at all -- the "aircraft" could be a glider, a drone, or even just a disembodied literal camera.)

But some of the demos I've seen for MSFS 2020 connected to PSX show more involvement than that on the MSFS side of things. For example, obtaining clearance from ATC, or having menu items or instruments visible on the MSFS screen. Can everything on the MSFS display be turned off except for the scenery?

I have to ask these questions before buying MSFS, because my current computer (which runs PSX at a solid and beautiful 72 fps by the way) is below spec for MSFS... Thanks.

[PSX747atlas]

Short answer YES everything can be off so you have just the Camera view, you may need to alter an aircraft view to get the height etc you desire, but everything else you mentioned can be off with a few mouse clicks.

[Will]

Thanks, and one more question if you have the time. I usually start PSX with the aircraft powered down or as the previous crew left it, parked at an airport. Does MSFS let you "start" a sim session with the aircraft in random places, like parked at a gate or on a cargo apron?

I ask, because the demo screens I've seen show sessions originating with the aircraft on a runway, or holding short. I'm assuming you can start a session anywhere, but it would be helpful to know.

Thanks again.

[andrej]

Yes, you can select available parking locations (at terminal or cargo apron). That is possible. If your PC can handle MSFS2020, I recommend to getting it. It is a vast (visual) improvement vs. XP11 (P3D, FSX are not contenders).

I enjoy VFR flights, but mainly as my visual generator for PSX. It is worth it.

Best!

[Will]

My current system cannot handle MSFS...

Just before the pandemic hit, I bought a cheap, low-end PC for PSX, and it works great, with a solid 72 fps, but it won't run MSFS. I made that purchase before I knew MSFS was going to be released. I guess I hadn't been following the news.

Hence all these questions, because investing in the "scenery generator" would be significantly more expensive than just $59 for the sim.

[PSX747atlas]

what you using as a scenery gen at the moment with your current setup? I would recommend xp11 which is on sale with steam at the moment until you can get a upgrade to your system.  I also have a low end system and can just run msfs but on medium settings if in clouds its hard performance, xp11 runs smooth as silk.

[Will]

My current scenery is the default PSX scenery... which is quite immersive and just fine. It is fun and sufficient in its own right. But I got interested in the new MSFS, because it really does seem like a real step up, and because being into flight simming means always tinkering with your setup. ;-)

[GodAtum]

For a good MSFS2020 system, you'll need to spend over £2k.

[Will]

For a good MSFS2020 system, you'll need to spend over £2k.

I think that's been true as long as there's been MSFS, in any version. It always needs an expensive computer to run well. Then when computers get cheap, Microsoft comes out with another newer version of the sim, once again only running well on a £2k computer.

[cagarini]

And, for someone used to Aerowinx PS1 / X, stepping into generalistic flight simulations like those provided by the MS FS franchise will simply get the sensation of emptiness, sooner or later, filling their thoughts about the amount spent in such platforms...

At most MFS can be successfully used as a scenery generator, not only for PSX as it is already being used:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icfJmvdRqVE

[Jeroen Hoppenbrouwers]

Pft. Not even *under* the bridge.    :-/

[Dennis B]

For a good MSFS2020 system, you'll need to spend over £2k.

Cannot confirm. I just got MSFS2020 "for fun" without any hopes for my low- to medium-end system as part of the Xbox game pass (€ 4 / month). And I was surprised! MSFS is running, with medium settings, considerably okay (except for aircraft with G1/3000 / big screens).

My specs: 2x Intel XEON E5620, 12GB RAM, ATI Radeon 560 graphics.
I bought my PC 5 years ago as a refurbished workstation (IBM Lenovo Thinkstation) for about 300 bucks I think.
Graphics card was about 200 bucks a year ago if I remember right.

(bucks translates to EUR)