Hi Rev- I found the sim flight to be quite fun actually although the rest of the day was fillled with nerves.
In my case, the examiner was a current training captain (not sure if he still flies with an airline although i suspect he does part time).
He clearly stated at the beginning that if you have any questions then ask him and thats exactly what I did.
Their real job in CTC is training pilots and I found him to be very patient and helpful. However this doesnt mean to say that he'll do everything for you - rather that if you have any questions such as power=descent rate /attidue = speed then do do do ask.
I also found it was useful to talk outloud but then I find that helps me with my flying generally.
Good luck to you anyways
SIdent