SimReaperXP
SimReaperXP is a FlyWithLua script that recovers FPS in X-Plane 12 by selectively disabling resource-heavy rendering features. It provides toggleable switches for six expensive rendering systems, recovering up to ~10 FPS (depending on system and settings) without reducing object density.
Background
- Developer: alstr
- Repository: github.com/alstr/simreaperxp (MIT license)
- Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux (pure Lua)
- Compatibility: X-Plane 12
- Dependency: FlyWithLua NG+
Official download is GitHub only
The version on X-Plane.org is unsupported and outdated. The developer has requested its removal. Only use the GitHub release.
Features
- Shadow Prep: Removes cockpit shadow rendering (includes exposure adjustment if cockpit becomes too bright)
- Cloud Shadow Render: Stops clouds from calculating ground shadows
- GBuff Lights: Disables light casting on surfaces (can auto-reenable at night to prevent dark airports)
- Planes: Makes exterior aircraft models invisible while keeping the cockpit functional (can auto-reenable in exterior view)
- Water: Disables water rendering
- Bump Maps: Removes object surface bump textures
All features are toggleable via Plugins > FlyWithLua > FlyWithLua Macros > SimReaperXP or via keyboard assignments. All settings are fully reversible — no permanent file modifications.
Value in Flight Simulation
Performance-heavy payware aircraft (Hot Start CL650, ToLiss A340) at detailed payware airports can push frame rates below comfortable levels. SimReaperXP trades specific visual details for significant FPS gains. Since the disabled features are selectable individually, users can find their own balance between visual quality and performance. Particularly useful for IFR flying where exterior visuals are secondary to cockpit instruments.
Installation
Download: GitHub Releases
Place simreaperxp.lua into Resources/plugins/FlyWithLua/Scripts/.