Anyone who bases their opinion of MSFS by saying "it's not a flight simulator" can safely be ignored.

meanwhile as someone who has been using BOTH since their inception I can say that they each cater very well to their target audiences. When I want hardcore simulation with an emphasis on physics and flexibility I break out xplane. When I want a more overall flight experience with all sorts of nice usability and graphic features and an undeniably enormous library of user created items I go for MSFS.

Both make me happy for different reasons. Both are solid protects with their own quirky shortcomings. Both have rabid camps of zealots defending them.

Just try Xplane for yourself. Do not be put off by the steep learning curve. it's the price one pays for power. And with MSFS do not be put off by idiots calling it a toy to make themselves feel better about living in their mother's basement. Anyone sitting in front of a computer pretending to fly a plane has no business putting down people for playing with a toy. ;)