During the release date itself, the AVSIM forum was flooded by excited and restless pilots who can't wait to get their hands on the new 737NGX. I successfully purchased and downloaded the product on August 5. The initial problem that I have was related to product activation, due to the numerous people (around the world) who are attempting to access the servers.
After a few attempts I activated the product. The model was impressive and in-depth when it comes to detail. Pilots who like to fly using the virtual cockpit (with trackIR) would appreciate this. As an avid fan who previously purchased the 747X and 747-8i extension, my transition from such to the NGX was not that difficult. It took me a day to familiarize the plane's system and perform a short flight.
Aside from the obvious size, range and passenger capacity of the 747-8i from the NGX, here a some differences that I've noticed:
1. There are NO drop-down menus to access in order to change the plane's payload, fuel, external/cockpit features. All options are done through the FMC menu.
2. Pre-flight and cockpit preparation is different such that you have to connect the external devices (GPU, external air) and disconnect such before pushback. These can be done through the FMC menus.
3. The ability to taxi with minimal/idle thrust.
4. The sounds are similar to the real NGX. All buttons, switches, levers and control surfaces have their sounds modeled as well.
5. Flight handling characteristics are well modeled. During my 'test flight' I performed steep climbs/descents, sharp turns and a stall test. The model also performs holds nicely and accurately.
6. AFDS (autopilot) system handles well and requires the aircraft to be in trim before CMD will engage.
7. HUGS (heads-up guidance systems) is such a great addition. Very helpful when landing at night conditions. I'm still learning how to take this feature on full advantage. This is fairly new for many pilots.
8. Unlike the 747 which utilizes the FMC-autotune feature, for NGX you will have to tune the radio frequencies yourself in order to capture the localizer and glideslope. No problem in tuning to VOR and ADFs as well.
9. Ability to perform an autoland in fail-passive state. Only one autopilot in CMD and the plane touches down smoothly.
These were my observations while flying the NGX (first 24 hours). If you loved the 747 and other PMDG products, you will love this as well!
Have a safe flight and blue skies!