Microsoft Flight Simulator has secured a place in the gaming hall of fame as one of the most renowned flight simulators ever, featuring licenses for various real aircraft and intricate city maps.
In 2020, when Microsoft relaunched Microsoft Flight Simulator, it was widely believed that this would be the version receiving ongoing updates. However, Microsoft surprised everyone this year by revealing plans to launch a brand-new edition named Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
The upcoming release will not only bring an update but also introduce numerous new features and a wealth of fresh content. Here are all the essential details you should be aware of regarding MSFS 2024.
One of the key additions to Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is the introduction of an Aviation Careers option. Simmers will have the opportunity to select from different specializations, each influenced positively or negatively by the choice of aircraft utilized. The currently revealed career paths include:
Mountain and Sea Rescue
Agriculture Aviation
Air Racing
Medical Evacuations
Hot Air Ballooning
Research Flights
Aerial Fire Fighting
Cargo Transport by Helicopter
Industrial and Cargo Transport
Corporate Jet Operations
Skydiving Operations
Aerial Construction
Low Altitude Training
Glider Flying and many more
If you struggle to motivate yourself to explore in previous versions of Microsoft Flight Simulator or seek additional goals and challenges, these options will provide ample engagement for some time.
Considering the diverse specializations mentioned earlier, you can anticipate the introduction of entirely novel aircraft such as gliders, airships, and hot air balloons. Each of these aircraft operates differently, demands enhanced flying abilities, and greatly broadens the travel options available.
For the first time in the franchise's history, you will have the freedom to step out of the aircraft cockpit and explore the world on foot as your character. Additionally, you can leap onto the wings of any plane or opt to parachute down to the ground.
Additional new elements consist of enhanced vegetation that appears more realistic and a wide range of weather phenomena, such as heavy snowfall, tornadoes and auroras. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 will replicate all four seasons.
Furthermore, the core engine powering Flight Simulator will undergo significant enhancements, resulting in reduced loading times (due to designated cloud streaming) and lower system requirements. Further detailed information is not yet accessible.
Microsoft has not yet revealed a complete lineup of the aircraft that will feature in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Developers have hinted at the inclusion of numerous new airliners that were not part of the previous versions. It is expected that the range of choices will be extensive, especially with the introduction of new modes of transportation.
Microsoft has announced that Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is set to launch on November 19, 2024, for PC and Xbox Series X/S. Regrettably, the previous generation Xbox One will not be supported. However, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 will still be accessible through Xbox Cloud Gaming.
At launch, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is expected to cost between R1000 and R1300, varying based on the platform. Nevertheless, individuals with a PC Game Pass or Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription will obtain the flight simulator for free on the first day as a part of their subscription.
As per the initial remarks made by Jörg Neumann, the head of Microsoft Flight Simulator, the upcoming 2024 edition will require just 50GB of storage space. This may seem small given the vast scale of the world.
Microsoft plans to utilize its own cloud to store and analyze 2.5 petabytes (equivalent to 2,500 terabytes) of aerial image data, ensuring quick loading speeds across numerous systems.
As Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a new independent game, the previous edition of Microsoft Flight Simulator will not be necessary. If you are currently using the old version, you can rest assured that you will not lose any of the content you have bought for it. Microsoft assures that all official aircraft and airports featured in Microsoft Flight Simulator, along with nearly all Marketplace add-ons, will continue to be compatible with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 without requiring users to make additional purchases.
Exceptions may arise, especially if add-on developers face challenges in adapting their content to the new version, as explained in the official FAQ by Microsoft. However, access to all content through the Flight Simulator Content Manager is assured for the time being. Players will receive free upgrades to content created by Microsoft (such as Reno Air Races, Local Legends, Famous Flyers, Expert Series) in MSFS 2020 if they have already purchased them.
The main goal of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is to provide training and enable you to follow your aviation career aspirations. As you conquer challenges, you will progress through the levels, gaining proficiency in various aircraft and environments, and gaining insight into how these situations unfold realistically.
The groundbreaking simulator is designed to replicate aviation training and practice as precisely as possible, especially with such an emphasis on MSFS 24 being the most immersive game of the franchise yet.
