This has probably been posted before, but I asked google for a list of multiplayer online flight simulators and AH did not show up. I asked why. This is the response. Nothing we did not already know.
why doesn't Aces high show up in the list of flight simulators
8 minutes ago
Aces High was not on the previous list primarily due to its age, niche status, and very low player count compared to more modern and popular flight simulators. It is a long-running World War II combat flight simulator, first released in 2000.
While respected for its massive multiplayer battles and realistic flight models for its time, several factors contribute to its lower modern visibility:
Dated Graphics and Engine Even with updates, its graphics are not comparable to modern titles like DCS World or War Thunder.
Subscription Model Aces High III operates on a monthly subscription model, which is a point of criticism when compared to free-to-play or one-time purchase competitors.
Low Player Population Recent data from late 2025 shows an average of only 2-3 concurrent players on Steam, with peaks rarely exceeding a dozen. While the game's servers may host more players directly, these numbers are significantly lower than its competitors.
Steep Learning Curve The game is known for being a challenging simulator, which can be a barrier for new players.
Sounds accurate to me. All fixable.
I don’t get the higher learning curve compared to DCS and maybe IL-2. I always viewed WT as more a kids game and arcade-ish.
IMO the sub and engine is the key. Subs is an easy fix. The engine swap takes time but totally doable. Basically we keep paying the most for less involvement. The game is ok, the principle is not. This is not ok. When ya hide you have something to hide from.
I’m glad its still running. But taking advantage of the word entertainment is wearing thin. The past work is already paid for. You either want to earn it in the future, or ya don’t, we are in don’t stage.
The only recourse is crap small server games that can’t go above 30-80. Once you experience multiplayer the rest is crap. Small servers are the cheesy crap way out. I did that centuries ago in Counter Strike, it BLOWS CHUNKS. I don’t care how great the graphics are, when you do small servers you are crap. Multiplayer is what keeps us here despite lack of service, graphics and sub.
The customer decides what is ok and what is not. Doing zero is not ok to customers no natter how you twist it. If one no longer wants income do exactly that.
Its great its still running, I pay for it to do so. But I am disappointed in attitude.
We are on our own.
Remember this? “…I hope to get back into dev soon…” its now less.
There, I said it out loud.
