Microsoft Flight Simulator PC update offers massive performance improvements
The PC version of Microsoft Flight Simulator, recently ported to Xbox Series X, just got a big update on your computer
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There’s a bigMicrosoft Flight SimulatorPC update, and it’s almost as if last year’s groundbreaking flight sim PC game is determined not to be overshadowed by the news theXbox Series XandXbox Series Sconsoles versions just launched.
MicrosoftFlight Simulator remains one of the most graphically demanding PC titles ever. While gamers’ reactions to highly anticipated games can grow distorted and polarized, the flight sim’s 2020 release elicited memories of the Crysis launch in 2007. Gamers with medium-to-high-end PCs that can run other modern games on “Ultra” settings reported defaulting to a mere “Medium” on the highly taxing title.
Today’s PC update should help remedy those issues. The patch offers “significant performance improvements to make the experience more seamless,” according to developerAsobo. These tweaks include much better multi-core processor support, memory and GPU usage, and loading times. The patch also reduces stutters significantly.
The developers rewrote part of the engine’s architecture to achieve today’s leap forward, as they recounted in a recentTwitch stream.
The new Microsoft Flight Simulator PC patch should also improve VR performance, where every little frame-rate hiccup can have a more noticeable effect. The game’s PC versionsupports VR headsetswithout any additional purchases.
Analysis: where Microsoft Flight Simulator stands today
Microsoft Flight Simulator is a staggering technical undertaking. Developers mapped out the entire world withBingMaps, delivering a playable Earth with nearly photorealistic views. The game even includes real-time weather and traffic.
In TechRadar’s review, we praised the flight sim’s incredible graphics, attention to detail, and support for flight sticks and other peripherals. Our complaints were relatively minor, focusing on its difficulty for beginners, confusing range of editions, and widely varying airports.
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Clearly, the work isn’t done on the game, as PC gamers can download the update now or finally check it out onXbox Game Pass, as it’s available through the Microsoft all-you-can-play Netflix-style subscription game service.
For more on Microsoft Flight Simulator, you can check out ourtips for getting started, along with ourflight-stick recommendations.
Will Shanklin began writing for online-tech publications more than a decade ago. He has worked for media outlets including Digital Trends, AppleInsider, Android Central, Geek, and HuffPost. He also spent five years building and running a Mobile Tech section at New Atlas (formerly Gizmag). A recent Denver transplant, Will enjoys the area’s nature, live music, and other fun activities.
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