I just realized that "3D graphics/flight sim" was kind of a hardware/tech benchmark back then (prior to the (PC) demo scene).

Iirc my first MSFS was either 1.0 or 2.0 (?) and I played a lot of subsequent titles that featured some more or less sophisticated 3D tech (Lightspeed, Microprose titles like e.g. F-117A etc, Gunship 2000, Strike Commander, Falcon (3.0?), Wing Commander, Comanche ("whoa, Voxels!")..

It was sure enough to save up for a CH Flightstick Pro and/or that Thrustmaster Stick "with the coolie hat".

But the first title that felt truly immersive in terms of 3D (albeit confusing at times) was Descent.

So I'd also assume this type of games caused some niche industries to flourish (both hardware and "consumer-grade military sim" software companies.