Build and fly your dream aircraft
SimplePlanes is a simulation game that puts you in the pilot's seat, but not before you get to play the role of an aircraft designer. Created by Jundroo, LLC, this game lets you construct your own custom aircraft from the ground up with a modular building system.
Similar to other creative sandbox titles like Kerbal Space Program, SimplePlanes prioritizes a realistic physics model, ensuring that every design choice has a tangible impact on flight performance. It's a different approach from more traditional flight sims such as Microsoft Flight Simulator or War Thunder, which focus on pre-designed aircraft.
SimplePlanes offers an impressive array of features to keep you engaged. Once your aircraft is ready, you can take it for a spin in the sandbox environment, where the only limit is the sky. You can also test your piloting skills against a variety of challenges, from landing on aircraft carriers to dodging surface-to-air missiles and racing through complex courses, providing a competitive layer to the experience.
Beyond the build mode
One of the game's greatest strengths is its vibrant and active community. With over 100,000 player-created aircraft available for free download, there is an endless supply of content to explore. You can fly everything from historical World War II bombers to futuristic sci-fi spacecraft. This massive library allows you to skip the building process and jump straight into the fun, or to get inspiration for your own future projects.
While the game is praised for its powerful and detailed tools, it presents a steep learning curve, particularly for new players. The depth of the building mechanics, while a plus for experienced creators, can be intimidating. Designing a complex, functional aircraft requires patience and a good understanding of aerodynamics, which can feel overwhelming at times. You need to invest time and effort to fully master the system.
Is it worth it?
All in all, SimplePlanes expertly combines the creative joy of a sandbox builder with the intellectual challenge of a flight simulator. The ability to design your own planes and test them with a realistic flight model offers a unique and highly rewarding experience. With a thriving community providing a wealth of content and a variety of challenges, this premium flight sim promises endless replayability.