Microsoft Flight Simulator Launches on Xbox plus Sim Update V Released on PC

One of the biggest stories to hit the flight simulation newsstand this summer is that Microsoft Flight Simulator (MFS) was released on the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Game Pass on July 27, opening the world of flight simulation to console gamers and therefore to a wider audience.

The Xbox version retains the same level of realism and complexity as the PC release with identical content, functionality and features. It also marks a significant milestone in our hobby as it enables gamers interested in flight simulation to get started at a much lower cost level than before. Rather than having to invest several thousand pounds on a high-spec PC, it is now possible to purchase an Xbox console for a fraction of the cost; the Xbox X retails at £449.99 and the Xbox S at £249.99.

This update includes significant performance improvements such as optimised multi-core CPU support, better memory and GPU usage and faster loading times. Stutters have also been significantly reduced.

Like the PC version, to help newcomers get started, Asobo has introduced several innovative features to make the flying experience more accessible. New modular training flights make learning to fly easier for beginners. Each lesson focuses on specific activities, such as basic handling, take-offs and landings, VFR navigation or learning to fly an airliner like the Airbus A320neo. The training flights feature contextual voiceovers, a score and a grading system to provide feedback and advice for progressing to the next stage.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Xbox Released

The Xbox version retains the same level of realism and complexity as the PC release with identical content, functionality and features. It also marks a significant milestone in our hobby as it enables gamers interested in flight simulation to get started at a much lower cost-level than before. Rather than having to invest several thousand pounds on a highspec PC, it is now possible to purchase an Xbox console for a fraction of the cost; the Xbox X retails at £449.99 and the Xbox S at £249.99.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Xbox Released

Like the PC version, to help newcomers get started, Asobo has introduced several innovative features to make the flying experience more accessible. New modular training flights make learning to fly easier for beginners. Each lesson focuses on specific activities, such as basic handling, take-offs and landings, VFR navigation or learning to fly an airliner like the Airbus A320neo. The training flights feature contextual voiceovers, a score and a grading system to provide feedback and advice for progressing to the next stage.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Xbox Released

Discovery flights place you in 10 of the most scenic locations on earth, including the Great Pyramids, Mount Everest, Naples, Rio de Janeiro etc, enabling you to perform sightseeing flights at your leisure. To make it easier to discover new places and to provide a more 'enriching' experience, Asobo has added location labels for famous Points of Interest (POIs) and notable landmarks such as rivers and mountains to aid with navigation, which is a great way to learn more about the planet. Other activities that can be undertaken include landing challenges and bush trips or use the in-game online multiplayer function to meet up and fly with other flight simmers. A Flight Assistant or AI can be used to control the aircraft and turn on various assists such as anti-stall and auto-trim functions. You can also select nearby POIs or airports as a destination and the AI will fly to your chosen destination.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Xbox Released

The standard Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S controllers work with Microsoft Flight Simulator, which also includes keyboard and mouse support. Current HOTAS controllers such as those produced by Thrustmaster, are supported and according to Asobo, new Xbox-compatible controllers are currently being developed specifically for the Xbox version of MFS.

Microsoft Flight Simulator for Xbox Released

Themed DLC bundles and aircraft currently available on the Microsoft Marketplace for PC can also be obtained on the Xbox store, as well as free content such as World Updates and Downloadable Content (DLC). Third-party developers also have the option of making their content available on the Xbox platform. To date, Asobo has also released five World Updates including Japan, the US, France, Benelux, UK & Ireland and the Nordics. Two further World Updates are planned for this year and six more in 2022.

Finally, the icing on the cake is that MFS is a cross-purchase, meaning you only need to buy one copy of MFS, and you can use it on both PC and Xbox platforms.