Today Microsoft and third-party developers shared news and assets about Microsoft Flight Simulator and its upcoming add-ons.
We start with Microsoft, which provided new details about the Dune Expansion introduced a few days ago. We already knew that the expansion will bring the Ornithopter from the movies to the simulator on November 3, 2023, but we learn that it won't include the aircraft on its own like it was done with the Pelican from Halo Infinite. The expansion will also include scenery reproducing part of the planet of Arrakis on top of narrative missions that will let us fly as a House Atreides pilot.
If you'd like to learn more, you can watch the dedicated segment from today's Xbox Games Showcase extended on Yoube, presented by Jorg Neumann himself. On top of that, we get more color from the official press release.
The planet of Arrakis comes to life in Microsoft Flight Simulator – Dune Expansion! We are delighted to announce our partnership with Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures to bring the renowned Dune film franchise to life in the Microsoft Flight Simulator – Dune Expansion. See ‘Dune: Part Two’ only in theaters worldwide and experience Microsoft Flight Simulator – Dune Expansion on November 3, 2023.
We worked closely with the team at Legendary, Warner Bros., and a key member of the Dune design team to create an incredibly detailed Atreides Ornithopter. Every system and control of the cockpit has been authentically recreated and the unique aspects of the flight model have been captured. Master the complex controls of one of the most dynamic aircrafts ever conceived as you pilot your ornithopter through awe-inspiring locations across the mysterious desert planet of Arrakis.
Today Microsoft also released a new beta build of the Aircraft & Avionics Update 2, numbered 1.33.8.0. This one is smaller than the previous builds, but that shouldn't be surprising since the update is close to its official release expected on June 23. You can find the patch notes on the official forums.
Incidentally, following the release of the FAQ about Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 many developers are weighing in. So far, the consensus is that they're going to support the upcoming simulator as they're doing with the current iteration, and their add-ons will transfer for free. While not all developers have reacted just yet, there hasn't been one (at least to my knowledge) who has stated otherwise.
Next, we get to take a new look at the upcoming Airbus A330 by Aerosoft, including a few Condor liveries, night lighting, and more.
Last, but not least, Pyreegue, released new screenshots of East Midlands Airport (EGNX) in the UK, showing off a really cool cargo pallet and warehouses.
Microsoft Flight Simulator is currently available for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Cloud Gaming, including Game Pass. If you'd like to learn more, you should stay tuned on TechRaptor as we have daily Microsoft Flight Simulator news to keep you updated on the many add-ons coming and released for the sim. We have also recently interviewed Microsoft's Jorg Neumann about the Antonov An-225 "Mriya" and iniBuilds' CEO Ubaid Mussa on the work of the popular third-party developer. If you're interested in reviews, you can check out iniBuilds' New York-JFK Airport, Orbx's Oslo Gardermoen Airport, and RHDSimulations' Boeing 767-300ER.
