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Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 release date: pre-order and news

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 release date: pre-order and news

The long-running series allows players to fly a variety of aircraft, from jets to helicopters, around the world – you can even spot your house if you look closely enough.

With the winter nights here in the UK being able to fly to the sunny climates of Barbados or Singapore (practically of course) is a welcome antidote.

So, let’s take a look at when we can expect Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 to launch. We’ll also take a look at all the details of the new gameplay.

When will Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 be released?

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is about to land November 19, 2024which is only a few weeks away.

This gives you time to organize in-flight entertainment, pick out snacks and pack your bags – metaphorically, of course.

Can I pre-order Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024?

Microsoft Flight Simulator is currently available for pre-order. You can do this in the game official siteor through Xbox Digital Store.

Good news if you subscribe to Xbox Game Passas the game will also go there on release day.

Alternatively, you can purchase download codes from websites such as Amazon or purchase the glossy deluxe edition GAME.

By the way, there are several different versions of the game available for pre-order. Each of them includes a different number of planes and airports; standard (70 aircraft, 150 airports), deluxe (80 aircraft, 155 airports), premium deluxe (95 aircraft, 160 airports) and aviation edition (125 aircraft, 160 airports).

Finally, there’s the Limited Collector’s Edition, which comes with a bunch of extra goodies, including a luggage tag, a flight bag, an Antonov An-225 model plane, and a large steelbook.

What consoles and platforms can you play Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on?

Airplane on the runway

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has many different weather conditions to consider. Microsoft

Since the game was created by Microsoft, this is not surprising Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is an Xbox exclusive when it comes to consoles.

As mentioned above, it will also be available through Game Pass on release day.

For those who prefer to play with a mouse and keyboard, it will be released for PC through steam also.

Gameplay and story of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

A man walks across the field to the plane

For the first time in the series, you can leave your plane and explore. Microsoft

Unless you create a compelling mystery in your head, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 doesn’t really have a story like you’d expect.

however, there’s the usual “Career” game mode, where you work your way up the ranks by gaining experience and certifications until you can fly to your heart’s content.

There’s also the chance to play the role of a photographer and travel the world photographing landmarks and areas of natural beauty in a series of challenges – it’s like a virtual holiday, which is exactly what we need here in the UK in the middle of November.

The game also introduces a new challenge league where players can compete against each other in activities such as races and precision landing challenges.

In terms of gameplay, there is now an improved physics system that increases the level of detail in the simulation.

The flight planning system will help you plan the best route and take weather into account, as well as plan fuel and payload.

One of the most notable new features is the ability to land anywhere in the world and exit the plane, where you can wander through 27 different biomes that include detailed reproductions of vegetation, wildlife and nature like rocks and flowers.

Is there a trailer for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024?

There really is a trailer for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. It was shown at the Xbox Showcase this summer and we’ve included it below.

Check out more of ours Games coverage or visit our TV guide and The streaming guide to find out what’s going on. Hear more from TV’s biggest stars The Radio Times Podcast.