Microsoft Flight Simulator has consistently set benchmarks for realism in flight simulation. As Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 approaches, Jörg Neumann, Head of Microsoft Flight Simulator, has shared details about new advancements in the simulation in an interview with PCGamer.
Integration of Data and Technology
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 continues to leverage data from Bing Maps, including satellite and aerial imagery. This data is updated every three years to maintain an accurate representation of the Earth's changing landscape. Additionally, the simulation uses high-resolution topographical data from LIDAR scans, providing detailed terrain information with meter-level precision. A notable feature of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 will be the simulation's goal to render every tree on Earth. Utilizing machine learning, the simulation will identify tree species and accurately place "trillions of trees" in real-time, according to Jörg Neumann.
In 2024, we see every tree on Earth. We have a machine learning look up, essentially, and then we know what the tree is, even down to the point where we know what the species likely is… and then we plant trees, literally trillions of trees, and it's all done in run time, so it's pretty damn accurate.
Cloud-Based Data Management
To address the large data requirements of flight simulation, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 adopts a "thin client" model, shifting much of the data management to the cloud. This approach reduces the local installation size to 50 GB or less while allowing for extensive content integration.
Dynamic Environment Enhancements
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 introduces dynamic elements, including various animal species and real-time ship tracking. These features aim to create a more vibrant and interactive virtual world. Additionally, ships will serve as potential landing zones.
Right now, we have every ship on Earth, right? Every ship on Earth sends us a transponder signal… you can land on every ship, and it looks like a first person shooter environment. I think we're in a new era of making games that I think are going to break new ground, from a scale and complexity perspective.
Exploration Beyond Aircraft
A significant new feature allows players to leave their aircraft and explore the virtual world on foot. This enables players to experience various landscapes up close, including hiking trails and lakesides.
You can now exit the plane, walk around, in 2024. You can literally walk your favorite mountain path to your favorite hut in the mountains. Sit on the lake. See the sunset. It is truly a digital twin you can absorb.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is scheduled for release on November 19, 2024, for Windows PCs, Xbox Series X|S, and via Xbox Cloud Gaming. As with previous versions, it is expected that the game will be available both for individual purchase and as part of the Xbox Game Pass.