What's the deal with Prepar3D?

[_o_OOOO_oo-Kanawha]

Isn't this a like professional clone of MSFS/FSX? Sort of like comparing Run8 with MSTS.

It is backed by a leading player in the US defence industry, Lockheed Martin.

[render2017]

No.
It is derived from the same basic package as FSX (Check the history for details) but has had significant upgrades and development that FSX can not offer.
e.g.
Direct X 11
Significant bug fixes make it much more stable
Better graphics and some enhancement s to Flight Director (Mission Maker)
A wide range of add-ons just like FSX, most FXS packages now available for P3d, with changes to take advantage of the technical features that P3D has.
It seems a 64 bit version is planned but no date yet.
They have just released V2.5 with over 200 upgrades/ bug fixes.

The biggest issue is the EULA Licence options, suggest research that before you decide. I don't think it is a serious issue but each person must decide for themselves. It is all based around the fact they are not supposed to market it to FSX users per se, as It is being developed as a professional Simulator. However, most people who are casual simmers go for the academic licence, without repercussions.
.

I tried FSX-SE, (Steam Edition) but as they are not developing it, only releasing old crappy DLC from the dim distant past, I moved away from that. I use P3D and X-Plane as they both have unique offerings.

Hope that helps