Graphics, graphics, graphics... :D
Out of the blue this game delivers the most impressive visuals I have seen in any FS ever, at incredibly fluid framerates. You have to be really picky to have something negative to say about the graphics, if I have to mention something it would be the relatively low resolution textures you see when flying close to the ground. But, when flying at 1000km/h chasing some badguys, who would really notice anyway.
So, how about the gameplay? It's basically more of an arcade game, rather than a simulator. So, although the movement of the plane feels pretty much accurate, you can enjoy very easy enemy lock-on and a ridiculous amount of missiles to play with. You can even send out swarms of missiles, taking out many enemies at once. So, forget realism, this is about killing as many badguys as possible. And you are indeed expected to kill a lot of them. Already in the first mission there's a huge amount of enemies to be downed. It's all tied together with a cinematic story-line and radio chatter from your wingmen, giving the game more personality and depth.
Personally I would have preferred more realism. I found it to be too easy, and more of a matter of patience to clear out the enemies. It kind of lacks any feeling of accomplishment to kill an enemy, it's too easy. But, the gorgeous visuals make up for it, and for me the gameplay is more or less a distraction for enjoying the freedom of flying around in a stunning looking world.
I'm relieved to see this kind of game in a time where almost every game is a FPS or sports game. And it's not just different, its really an outstanding game as well.