Big Radials
Website: https://big-radials.com/ Founded: 2020 Headquarters: United States Platforms: MSFS
Overview
Big Radials is a flight simulation developer that emerged with the launch of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, focusing on aircraft powered by radial piston engines—hence the name. The company has quickly established itself as a specialist in warbird and classic aircraft development for the new platform.
Their product line demonstrates an eclectic appreciation for aviation history, spanning from World War I fighters to World War II legends to mid-century executive aircraft. Big Radials is known for producing aircraft that are not only visually impressive but also offer authentic flight characteristics that reflect the handling peculiarities of their real-world counterparts.
The company fills an important gap in the MSFS marketplace by bringing lesser-known but historically significant aircraft to the platform, alongside more recognizable warbirds and classics.
History
Big Radials was founded in 2020 specifically to develop aircraft for Microsoft Flight Simulator. The company started with a clear vision: to recreate aircraft from the golden age of radial-engine aviation with the visual fidelity and flight dynamics possible in the new simulator.
Their early releases established their reputation for quality, and they have continued to expand their catalog with diverse and interesting aircraft selections. The company has focused exclusively on MSFS, taking full advantage of the platform’s capabilities.
Aircraft Portfolio
Current Products
- P-40B Warhawk - Iconic WWII American fighter with distinctive shark mouth nose art
- Nieuport 17 - Classic WWI French fighter biplane
- Lockheed JetStar - 1960s executive jet (their exception to the radial engine theme)
- Grumman Goose - Amphibious flying boat from the 1930s
Planned Products
- Additional warbirds and classic aircraft in development
Notable Achievements
- Successful entry into MSFS ecosystem from platform launch
- Diverse aircraft selection spanning multiple aviation eras
- Strong visual quality leveraging MSFS graphics capabilities
- Active community engagement and regular updates
Community Reputation
Big Radials has built a positive reputation for delivering quality vintage and warbird aircraft at reasonable prices. Users appreciate the variety of their catalog and the care taken in reproducing authentic flight characteristics. Some users note that while the aircraft are generally well-made, the smaller team size means updates and new releases can take time. Overall, the community views Big Radials as a valuable contributor to the MSFS warbird ecosystem.