Microsoft has made a wonderful package in FS9, but it is the 3rd party designers that have really made FS9 what it is. I was just having a good time in the pattern at Diamond Point, WA (by Lago), with the Cessna 152 (by Flight 1), enjoying the scenery (updated ground textures found at Avsim.com, water textures found also at Avsim by Bill Lyons, and the clouds done by FSW v2).
Hats off to Microsoft and our wonderful designers of this great hobby.....