As a MS flight sim pilot for the past many years and revisions I can highly
recommend FS2004. Yes FS2002 is probably cheaper but i find that 2004 runs
much better on equavelant hardware and includes much more realistic GPS
units.

Figure for the cost of less than 1 hour dual, you can fly holds and
approaches until you're sick and with the new version you can even do it in
"real" weather. (the sim updates the weather off the Internet.)

Yes it's no replacement for real flying but it sure is cheaper and warmer
than the real thing right now

I use a MS force feedback joystick (twist the handle for rudder) and it's
okay. I'd consider that to be a minimum (A joystick with twist rudder)
Otherwise the sky's the limit. I've heard of some setups that take a whole
room to run. Of course that's not necessary just to shoot approaches.

my .02 worth, YMMV.

Mike



"Gerald Sylvester" wrote in message
link.net...

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What is the minimum equipment *really* required to use MS FS 2004?
Right now I have a new Dell Latitude laptop. I have a mouse
and that is about it. Joysticks? Foot pedals (cost?)? I don't want
it to replace flight since I can just get in a real plane but I have
heard from many people that it is quite good. I want
it more for the instrument training.
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