I kinda get not getting it...
I bought flight sim to practice during my PPL, but I found it of limited use, it is difficult to fly a circuit when you are used to looking out of the window for visual reference of the airport location and you have to push keys to do it. I think it might be of more use practicing for my IMC. That said, using the keyboard and then a joystick didn't do it for me. I have invested quite a lot of money in the CH Pedals and yoke and I think that will be useful for following tracks and instrument let downs, as it is a bit realistic. Haven't had time to set it up yet, but I will get there ; - )
Great responses, thanks for the information!