Update: November 19, 1900Z – It’s been a wild start for MSFS 2024, with Microsoft’s servers absolutely slammed in these first few hours. The team is aware of the issues folks are running into—whether it’s super long loading times, trouble getting into the sim, or not seeing all the aircraft. They’re on it and working hard to sort things out as quickly as they can!
The wait is finally over! Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, the next evolution in Microsoft’s longest-running software franchise, is officially here! Launching today, this highly anticipated release sets the stage for a new era of immersive and highly realistic virtual aviation and promises to bring the hobby to a bigger audience than ever.
With its predecessor, MSFS 2020, redefining the genre and attracting millions of new sim pilots, expectations for MSFS 2024 have been sky-high. The new simulator doesn’t just aim to meet those expectations, but to surpass them by introducing innovative features, enhanced visuals, and gameplay modes that appeal to a wide spectrum of simmers. From casual flyers to hardcore enthusiasts, everyone is bound to find something exciting in this new iteration.
Whether you’re ready to embrace the life of an aerial firefighter, explore a digital twin of planet Earth in meticulously detailed aircraft, or simply enjoy the tranquility of soaring above breathtaking landscapes, MSFS 2024 offers something for everyone. But what exactly sets it apart from its predecessor?
What’s new in MSFS 2024?
The changes coming to MSFS 2024 have been widely discussed over the past few months, and today we can finally see for ourselves what they’re all about. But before diving into the new sim, take a look at these 7 tips to help you get started and make your first hours and days in MSFS 2024 as smooth as possible.
We’ve also put together a very detailed breakdown of all the new features and updates that expand on the solid foundation built by its predecessor. Some of the highlights include:
- Career mode: A fully-fledged career system allows simmers to step into the shoes of a medevac pilot, aerial firefighter, cargo hauler, or even an airshow performer. It’s a long-awaited addition that adds structure and purpose to your flying adventures. Explore more in our MSFS 2024 Career Mode breakdown.
- New aircraft: From utility helicopters and long-haul airliners to hot air balloons and innovative electric aircraft, MSFS 2024 brings an impressive variety of aircraft and scenarios to explore. Check out the full list of new aircraft in MSFS 2024.
- Improved performance and visuals: Leveraging enhanced technology, the simulator features upgraded graphics, optimized performance, and improved physics that immerse players in even greater realism. A key change is the ground detail, which is now significantly more realistic, detailed, and influential in aircraft physics.
- Expansive weather and environment systems: From dynamic seasons to localized storm effects, the simulator breathes new life into the skies. This is one of the most noticeable changes in MSFS 2024 and also one of the most impactful, as the new environmental simulation is not only breathtaking to behold but also deeply affects your flying experience. Learn more here!
Availability
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available now on PC (Microsoft Store and Steam), Xbox Series X|S, and through Game Pass.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 offers a variety of editions to cater to all kinds of virtual pilots, each packed with unique content. Here’s a breakdown:
Standard Edition – 70 Aircraft | 150 Airports – $69.99
This base edition includes the largest fleet ever offered in a Microsoft Flight Simulator Standard Edition, with 70 aircraft and 150 handcrafted airports.
Deluxe Edition – 80 Aircraft | 155 Airports – $99.99
The Deluxe Edition raises the stakes, offering an expanded fleet of 80 aircraft and 155 handcrafted airports.
Premium Deluxe Edition – 95 Aircraft | 160 Airports – $129.99
The Premium Deluxe Edition comes with an impressive selection of 95 aircraft and 160 airports.
Aviator Edition – 125 Aircraft | 160 Airports – $199.99
The ultimate version for serious enthusiasts, the Aviator Edition offers everything included in the Premium Deluxe Edition, but with an additional 30 aircraft. These are the 30 Local Legends and Famous Flyers developed by Microsoft and added to the MSFS Marketplace between 2021 and 2024, bringing the total to 125 aircraft.
Exclusive Physical Editions and Collectibles
In addition to the digital versions, Microsoft is offering several collector’s editions, providing physical memorabilia for die-hard fans and collectors.
Premium Deluxe Edition Jumbo SteelBook
Available in limited quantities through select retailers, this physical edition includes the Premium Deluxe Edition of the game housed in a special Jumbo SteelBook. The SteelBook also comes with a custom pilot’s lanyard and a leather-like ID badge holder with a unique digital 5×5 game code.
Limited Collector’s Edition – $259.99 + taxes
The Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Limited Collector’s Edition is a treasure trove for aviation fans. It’s available only from Aerosoft and includes an impressive selection of collectibles:
- A Herpa 1/400 scale model of the legendary Antonov An-225, mounted on a numbered stand.
- A custom Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 flight bag with six unique, customizable flight patches.
- A Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 luggage tag with a secure loop.
- A platinum-looking logo pin and a stunning key art lithograph.
- A Limited Edition Jumbo SteelBook, similar to the Premium Deluxe Edition, but featuring the Aviator Edition content.
- A developer’s letter dedicated to the fans, celebrating their role in the success of the franchise.
- A Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 collectible retail box.
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