https://www.gog.com/game/freespace_2

Apparently there's a native linux build for it too, "FS2 Open"

Edit: It's actually a java app that (supposedly) works on Windows, Linux and Mac (yeah: same app on all three), it enables a host of updates that (supposedly) greatly improve visuals, facilitate running in screen resolutions other than 1024x768, and a bunch of other mods, levels and whatnot. http://www.fsoinstaller.com/

Judging by forums, this is a game with a long history and big fanbase, which actually has put me off a bit now for the implied time investment.  :-@

I just wanted to go in, fly around and shoot down some spaceships and get out.

I.HAVE.TOO.MANY.FUCKING.GAMES.

 :-((

I got this a little while back, though did pay for it, albeit a tiny amount.

I was hankering for it ages ago after reading a massively positive review when it got released, but never got round to getting it. I've played a little bit but have had a hard time getting it setup to play with a 360 controller. Even then there are a multitude of extra buttons assigned to the keyboard and I need some sort of map to keep tabs on everything.

Have you played it on Windows 7 or newer?

Yeah it works on Win10

Cool. I thought I might have to install to my old xp box, which I haven't booted up in months.

Some kind of sequel thingy "X4 Foundations" being flogged on gog's email newsletter ATM ("highest discount ever" er, for the as-yet unreleased game). Yeah like I don't have enuf games.  :-S