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- Best overall: 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC
- Best budget: Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition
- Best premium: Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition
- 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch: Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One
- Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology suits strategy fans who want a deep, turn-based campaign and a broad collection of add-on content.
- Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition is the clearest entry point for players drawn to aircraft, aviation and worldwide routes.
- Deluxe and Premium Deluxe editions add aircraft and airports, so check the edition’s included content before choosing.
- Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One adds dedicated flight controls for supported Xbox and Windows PC setups.
- Choose by genre first: Civilization VI focuses on empire building, while Microsoft Flight Simulator focuses on piloting and exploration.
Sid Meier's Civilization VI and Microsoft Flight Simulator offer two very different gaming experiences: turn-based empire building versus detailed aviation. For Black Friday 2026, I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback across game editions and compatible gear to help you pick the right fit.
Here's the bottom line: choose Civilization VI for long strategy sessions and Microsoft Flight Simulator for aircraft, routes and a more simulation-focused experience. Our picks cover PC and console options, edition upgrades and flight controls, with clear notes on who each product suits.
How We Picked
- Compared each product’s platform support and its fit for strategy or flight-simulation players.
- Reviewed edition differences, including included aircraft, add-on content and featured airports.
- Considered owner feedback and product specifications instead of claiming personal play experience.
- Included accessories only when their supported platforms make them relevant to Microsoft Flight Simulator.
- Prioritized clear buying choices, from a straightforward game edition to expanded editions and dedicated controls.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Platform | Aircraft/content count | Core format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC | PC strategy fans seeking a content-rich edition | Windows PC | 6 major add-on collections | Turn-based strategy |
| 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch | Nintendo players who value portable play | Nintendo Switch | 1-player campaign | Turn-based strategy |
| 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4 | PlayStation players who want grand strategy | PlayStation 4 | 1-player campaign | Turn-based strategy |
| Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition | New flight-simulation players | Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC | 70 aircraft | Flight simulation |
| Microsoft Flight Simulator Deluxe Edition | Players wanting more aircraft than the Standard Edition | Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC | 80 aircraft | Flight simulation |
| Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition | Dedicated virtual pilots seeking expanded content | Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC | 95 aircraft | Flight simulation |
| Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One | Flight-sim players seeking a joystick and throttle | Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC | 5 axes | Joystick and throttle |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC is the best strategy bundle for players who want the core game and a broad set of expansions, including 6 major add-on collections.
Best for: PC strategy fans seeking a content-rich edition
- Platform
- Windows PC
- Genre
- Turn-based strategy
- Included content
- Base game plus 6 major add-on collections
- Combines the base game with substantial extra content
- Supports long-form strategy campaigns
- A strong starting point for new players
- A large collection can feel overwhelming at first
Is the 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC is a strong pick for strategy fans who want the base game and 6 major add-on collections together. Choose it over a basic edition when broad campaign content matters more than a minimal setup.
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#2
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch is the best portable strategy pick for players who want empire building on a handheld or television, with 1 turn-based campaign framework to learn.
Best for: Nintendo players who value portable play
- Platform
- Nintendo Switch
- Players
- 1 player
- Core mode
- Turn-based campaign
- Portable play fits short or long sessions
- The same strategic core works in handheld mode
- A natural choice for Nintendo Switch owners
- The smaller display can make busy maps harder to read
Is the 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch is worth considering for players who want a full strategy campaign in handheld or docked play. The turn-based pace suits portable sessions, while the console version keeps the series’ focus on planning and empire growth.
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#3
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4 is the best console strategy pick for players who prefer a controller, with 1 turn-based empire-building campaign at its core.
Best for: PlayStation players who want grand strategy
- Platform
- PlayStation 4
- Players
- 1 player
- Genre
- Turn-based strategy
- Brings the strategy series to PlayStation
- Campaigns reward careful long-term planning
- Controller-first play suits a living-room setup
- Mouse-and-keyboard players can prefer the PC edition
Is the 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4 worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4 is a good fit for console owners who want a strategic campaign without moving to PC. The 2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for PlayStation 4's 1-player focus emphasizes city growth, diplomacy and military planning across a long-running empire-building game.
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#4
Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition is the best starting point for aspiring virtual pilots, with 70 included aircraft for a broad range of flight experiences.
Best for: New flight-simulation players
- Platforms
- Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC
- Included aircraft
- 70
- Included airports
- 150
- Offers a substantial aircraft selection
- Works across supported Xbox and PC platforms
- A clear entry point before considering upgrades
- Higher editions include more aircraft and airports
Is the Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition is worth buying for players who want the core flight experience and 70 aircraft without moving to a higher edition. The Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition's wide platform support makes it a practical pick for compatible Xbox and Windows PC setups.
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#5
Microsoft Flight Simulator Deluxe Edition
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Deluxe Edition is the best mid-tier pick for virtual pilots seeking more aircraft, with 80 included planes for added variety.
Best for: Players wanting more aircraft than the Standard Edition
- Platforms
- Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC
- Included aircraft
- 80
- Edition tier
- Deluxe
- Includes more aircraft than the Standard Edition
- Maintains support for Xbox and Windows PC
- Balances added content with a focused edition choice
- Premium Deluxe includes a larger aircraft selection
Is the Microsoft Flight Simulator Deluxe Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Deluxe Edition is a sensible upgrade for players who want 80 included aircraft rather than the Standard Edition’s 70. Pick the Deluxe Edition when its added aircraft matter to your flying plans, but compare its contents with Premium Deluxe first.
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#6
Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition is the best premium game edition for aviation fans who want 95 included aircraft and an expanded airport selection.
Best for: Dedicated virtual pilots seeking expanded content
- Platforms
- Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC
- Included aircraft
- 95
- Edition tier
- Premium Deluxe
- The largest aircraft count among these three editions
- Includes an expanded airport selection
- A strong fit for dedicated simulation fans
- The extra content is less useful for casual players
Is the Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition is worth considering when 95 included aircraft and expanded airport content are priorities. Casual flyers can stick with Standard Edition, while dedicated aviation fans get the most comprehensive choice among these three editions.
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#7
Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One is the best dedicated-control upgrade for supported Xbox and PC flight setups, with 5 axes for more detailed inputs.
Best for: Flight-sim players seeking a joystick and throttle
- Compatibility
- Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC
- Axes
- 5
- Control type
- Joystick and throttle
- Dedicated stick and throttle feel more aviation-focused
- Five axes support varied flight inputs
- Designed for supported Xbox and PC systems
- Takes more desk space than a standard controller
Is the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One is worth a look for Microsoft Flight Simulator players who want a dedicated joystick and throttle. The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One's 5 axes support detailed control, and its Xbox and Windows PC compatibility makes it a targeted upgrade for supported setups.
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Which game is better for Black Friday 2026?
Sid Meier's Civilization VI and Microsoft Flight Simulator suit different players, so the better choice depends on whether you want strategy or aviation. Civilization VI turns each move into a decision about cities, research, diplomacy and conflict.
Microsoft Flight Simulator puts you in the cockpit, with aircraft and airports shaping the experience. The Standard Edition includes 70 aircraft, while Premium Deluxe includes 95. Worth it for most players? The Standard Edition is the simpler entry point; Premium Deluxe suits pilots who value its expanded selection.
Pick the game whose core activity sounds fun for dozens of sessions. Neither title is a substitute for the other.
What is the difference between Civilization VI and Microsoft Flight Simulator?
Sid Meier's Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game, while Microsoft Flight Simulator is an aviation simulation with 70 aircraft in its Standard Edition. That difference matters more than graphics or platform when choosing between them.
Civilization VI rewards planning, adapting to rivals and developing an empire one turn at a time. Microsoft Flight Simulator focuses on learning aircraft, handling controls and selecting routes. One centers on decisions across a civilization; the other centers on piloting.
For relaxed planning and replayable campaigns, choose Civilization VI. For aircraft and immersive flight, choose Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Which Microsoft Flight Simulator edition should you choose?
Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition and Premium Deluxe Edition include 70, 80 and 95 aircraft respectively. Those counts offer a quick way to compare the editions, though specific included aircraft and airports are the deciding details.
Standard Edition suits newcomers who want the core flight experience. Deluxe adds aircraft for players who want more variety, and Premium Deluxe is the expanded-content option for dedicated virtual pilots. Check the edition contents for the aircraft and airports you care about before selecting an upgrade.
Choose the lowest edition that matches your flight interests rather than paying attention to the tier name alone.
Which Civilization VI version fits your platform?
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC is the broad-content pick, while the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 versions suit players who prefer console play. Platform and edition content are the main differences to weigh.
The Windows PC Anthology gathers the base game with 6 major add-on collections. Nintendo Switch adds portability, making it a natural fit for players who want strategy away from a desk. PlayStation 4 keeps the game in a living-room setup for console owners.
Check the exact edition and included add-ons before buying, especially when comparing a console base game with a PC collection.
Do you need a flight stick for Microsoft Flight Simulator?
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One is a dedicated joystick-and-throttle option with 5 axes for supported Xbox and Windows PC flight setups. A standard controller remains a reasonable way to start, so the accessory is an upgrade rather than a requirement.
A HOTAS layout gives flight inputs their own controls, which appeals to players who want a more aviation-focused setup. Before choosing, confirm platform compatibility, available desk space and whether the games you play support your preferred control configuration.
Strategy players buying Civilization VI do not need flight controls. Match the accessory to Microsoft Flight Simulator and your setup.
Buying Guide
Choose the genre before the edition
Decide between turn-based empire building and aviation first. Sid Meier's Civilization VI rewards planning over a campaign; Microsoft Flight Simulator focuses on aircraft and routes. The right genre matters more than a larger edition.
Match the platform to your setup
Check whether you play on Windows PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4 or Xbox Series X|S. The Civilization VI products here cover PC and console choices, while the listed flight simulator editions support Xbox and Windows PC.
Compare included content
Microsoft Flight Simulator editions list 70, 80 or 95 aircraft. For Civilization VI, compare the base game with the PC Anthology’s 6 major add-on collections. Verify the specific content list for the version you select.
Buy flight controls for your play style
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One has 5 axes and dedicated stick-and-throttle controls. Choose it when you want a more specialized flight setup; keep a standard controller if you favor simpler controls or have limited desk space.
Make a Black Friday 2026 shortlist
Save the exact product and edition names before shopping. Compare what each listing includes, confirm its platform and check compatibility for accessories. A short list keeps the choice focused on content and play style.
FAQ
Is Civilization VI or Microsoft Flight Simulator better for beginners?
Sid Meier's Civilization VI is a better fit for beginners who enjoy turn-based planning, while Microsoft Flight Simulator suits newcomers focused on aviation. Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition includes 70 aircraft; Civilization VI offers a slower, decision-led introduction to strategy.
Which Microsoft Flight Simulator edition has the most aircraft?
Microsoft Flight Simulator Premium Deluxe Edition has the most aircraft among the three editions in this guide, with 95 included. Deluxe Edition has 80, and Standard Edition has 70. Check each edition’s detailed content list for specific aircraft and airports.
Is Civilization VI Anthology worth buying?
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI Anthology for Windows PC is a strong option for players who want the base game alongside 6 major add-on collections. Players who want a simpler entry or play on console should compare the other listed versions.
Can I play Microsoft Flight Simulator with a controller?
Microsoft Flight Simulator supports controller-based play on compatible platforms, making a standard controller a practical starting point. The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One offers a dedicated joystick and throttle with 5 axes for players who want more specialized flight controls.
Is the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One compatible with Xbox?
The Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One is designed for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC compatibility. Confirm that the exact version and game setup match your platform before purchase, and allow desk space for its joystick-and-throttle layout.
Which Civilization VI version is best for portable play?
2K Sid Meier's Civilization VI for Nintendo Switch is the portable pick in this guide. Handheld play suits its turn-based campaign format, while docked play connects it to a television for a larger-screen console session.