While newer titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 offer photorealistic graphics, FS2004 remains popular for several practical reasons:
The original game uses "SafeDisc" DRM, which Windows 10 and 11 block for security reasons. To get it running, you will likely need a "No-CD" patch to bypass the disc check. While newer titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Since Microsoft no longer sells or supports the 2004 version, it has transitioned into "abandonware" territory: it has transitioned into "abandonware" territory: