I don't see this so much as an X-Plane feature as it is a developer feature. I think having 2D cockpits is equally as important as 3D cockpits. I find that working through cockpit flows, setting things up, and for some aircraft, IFR flying, to be easier when using 2D panels. I love flying with 3D in general, but not so much when I need to setup an FMS, or make changes on the overhead panel, or make changes on the center consol. I like calling up a panel while in 3D to do that. It's one of the reasons why I love PMDG planes so much, and I absolutely love the new 737. I fly in 3D view, set everything up in 2D, and make changes in flight 2D. It just works better than panning around and adjusting your view. Especially if you have a lower performing graphics card, where the graphics in 3D look a bit fuzzy.