Another source for inspiration: easily find filming locations for your favourite movies. My recommendation is Luzon (Philippines), where many Vietnam war movies were shot. The epic helicopter attack scene from Apocalypse Now was shot at Sabang beach (Baler bay).
Sim vs Movie
“Joel and Ellie stares at the wreckage scene” - The Last of Us (HBO TV series) (2023) Season 1 Episode 3 “Long, Long Time” filmed at 2219 Dr W, Foothills County, Alberta, Canada
GPS location 50.85258315353518, -114.2164868441553
“Darkstar flight scene” - Top Gun: Maverick (2022) filmed at Runway 14, Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake (ICAO: KNID), Western Mojave Desert region, California, USA