What RealFlight Evolution is
RealFlight Evolution is a flight simulator for radio-controlled airplanes, helicopters, drones and more, built to feel as close to real RC flying as a desktop can get. It runs on the RealPhysics engine, designed with input from both full-scale and RC pilots, so the models behave like the real thing rather than like an arcade game. You get more than 300 aircraft to fly across over 75 flying sites, including 3D fields and PhotoFields, with the main flightline at Triple Tree Aerodrome — home of the "Joe Nall" events — included as a PhotoField. New models and fields have been arriving quarterly as DLC since early 2023.
The pitch is simple: practice at home so you can fly your physical models at the field with confidence. New pilots use it to learn the basics, experienced pilots use it to drill maneuvers they don't want to risk on a real model. There are Virtual Flight Instructor lessons, a challenge system that pushes your skills, and various gadgets that let you work on technique down to a granular level. Navigation is available in English, German, French, Italian and Spanish.
Playing together
Multiplayer is online. You can fly with friends and compete against other pilots, and the challenge system gives you set goals to measure yourself against. Steam lists Online Co-op and Online PvP alongside local multiplayer, so there are ways to share a session both online and in the same room. The aircraft and airport editors let you build your own planes and sites, so a group can fly content one of you made rather than only stock fields.
Before you start
A controller is required — this will not run on keyboard alone. The recommended option is the Spektrum InterLink DX simulator controller, which comes pre-configured. You can also use your own RC radio through an interface such as the Spektrum WS2000 wireless dongle, though that needs manual setup, or any 4-axis game controller like a gamepad or advanced flight stick. Controller mapping is customizable with broad hardware compatibility.
VR headsets are supported through Meta and SteamVR if you want to fly in headset. Worth knowing: aircraft and airport editors are a real part of the package, so expect some time spent in them if you want custom content, and quarterly DLC adds new models and fields over time.