If you grew up in the mid-to-late 2000s and had access to a computer lab at your school, chances are you remember stumbling upon a little game called Microsoft Flight Simulator. Maybe it sat alongside other simulator games, like an 18-wheeler trucking sim, but Flight Simulator stood out as something unique. On the surface, it presented itself as a tool for aspiring pilots and aviation enthusiasts, offering a somewhat scaled-down version of Earth for you to explore. It wasn’t just a game—it felt like a professional tool. And yet, what many remember is how much fun they had “messing around” with it. You’d fly aimlessly through the skies, push your luck with daring maneuvers, and see how long it took before crashing. It wasn’t a replacement for flight school, but for the average person, it provided just enough realism and freedom to make the experience engaging and enjoyable.
Over time, though, the series fell into obscurity. Its niche audience didn’t disappear entirely, but it wasn’t a name you’d hear mentioned in everyday gaming conversations. That was, of course, until 2020. With little warning, Microsoft announced a full reboot of the series, bringing Microsoft Flight Simulator into the modern age. Released at a time when the world was collectively grappling with the isolation of COVID-19 lockdowns, the reboot arrived like a breath of fresh air—or, more aptly, a soaring gust of wind. With its hyper-realistic graphics, detailed recreation of Earth’s topography, and emphasis on accessibility, it became the perfect tool for virtual escapism. Those who had never even considered flying a plane found themselves captivated by the idea of exploring the world from the comfort of their homes. If you could run it—and that’s a big if, given its hardware demands—it was an unparalleled experience.
Fast forward four years, and the gaming landscape has changed dramatically. Lockdowns are a thing of the past, people are back to traveling in real life, and the novelty of virtual globetrotting has worn off for many. Enter Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, a sequel that opts for an entirely new strategy. Rather than continuing to update and expand the 2020 version, Microsoft has chosen to create a brand-new game. While this decision has been met with mixed reactions, there’s no denying that Flight Simulator 2024 builds on the strong foundation of its predecessor while adding new layers of depth and immersion. However, in doing so, it also risks alienating some of the casual audience who flocked to the first game during lockdown. As for me, I think it is a fine follow-up to a technical showcase.
At its core, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 retains the essence of what made the 2020 version so impressive. The technical showcase is still here, with jaw-dropping visuals that continue to set the standard for realism in gaming. Whether you’re soaring over the sprawling urban landscapes of New York City, gliding through the misty valleys of the Scottish Highlands, or navigating treacherous weather conditions in the middle of the Atlantic, the level of detail remains unparalleled. From the way sunlight filters through clouds to the dynamic weather systems that can shift in real-time, every aspect of the game is designed to immerse you in the experience of flight.
This year, the game’s main selling point is the new Jobs mode, where you can take to the skies and perform various air-related tasks. You can become a firefighter, dropping water on expanding wildfires (apologies if that feels a little too relevant). You can also take on the role of a commercial pilot, with the game walking you through every single detail of takeoff and landing. Unlike before, you’re in full control, so you might even find yourself annoyed if you haven’t moved for 10 minutes after leaving the gate. This mode isn’t just a marketing gimmick on the store page; it fundamentally changes how you approach each task the game offers. No longer are you simply flying for the sake of exploration or realism. Now, you have objectives and responsibilities that add an entirely new layer of engagement.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the game’s performance and hardware requirements. Like its predecessor, Flight Simulator 2024 is a demanding game. Even with a high-end PC or the latest console, you may find yourself tweaking settings to achieve optimal performance. For some, the technical demands will be a worthwhile trade-off for the game’s stunning visuals and unparalleled realism. For others, it may prove to be a frustrating barrier to entry. That said, Microsoft has made strides in optimizing the game compared to its predecessor. Load times are noticeably faster, and the overall user interface feels more intuitive. These quality-of-life improvements make the experience smoother, even if the game still requires a decent amount of patience and technical know-how to fully appreciate.
So, is this game worth your time if you enjoyed the first one? Absolutely. The game builds on the success of its predecessor, offering new features and modes that deepen the experience while maintaining the stunning realism that has become its hallmark. The Jobs mode is a welcome addition, adding structure and purpose to the gameplay without sacrificing the freedom that makes the series so beloved. That being said, for those who are already fans of the series or have an interest in aviation, Flight Simulator 2024 is a must-play. It’s a fine follow-up to a technical showcase, offering new ways to engage with the skies while staying true to its roots. For everyone else, it’s worth considering whether the new features are enough to justify the investment of time, money, and hardware. Either way, there’s no denying that Microsoft Flight Simulator continues to set the gold standard for realism and immersion in gaming, even though, at the end of the day, it’s still just a game where planes go woosh.
Score: 8 out of 10
Reviewed on PC & Xbox Series X