Microsoft’s much awaited Flight Simulator 2020 was released earlier this month to favourable reviews. The main point of contention has been the client download and its bypassing of Steam’s refund policy by counting the download process as gameplay.
There have been other issues regarding high-end hardware requirements to get smooth gameplay out of the massively open world but one thing everyone agrees on is how beautiful it looks. Considering their last Flight Simulator is still being played today, we can be sure the hardware will catch up and until then most of us will have to make do with performance optimisations.
Microsoft Flight Simulator Patch Release Date
To this end, Microsoft have been working on the first patch based on feedback and issue reports made since launch on the 18th August. The first patch is scheduled for an August 27th release. There’s currently no information on what we can expect from the update but from the wording, it’s likely bug fixes and optimisations based on reported errors like the Stuck on Loading Screen problem.
SDK Update
The official release saw the first public SDK for Microsoft Flight Simulator. This software development kit allows other developers to add everything from map terrain, aircraft, and even new AI to the game. However, the game appears to use different file formats than FSX which has slowed down development for smaller studios who didn’t get access to the beta version.
Microsoft has also stated that they are working on providing code to help port existing C++ aircraft along with mapping out the functionality of the SimConnect API. All this means that while the SDK is available, it is still considered an incomplete work in progress, but that there is more to come.
Developers will be free to sell their creations directly inside the game, but Microsoft have been quick to point out that “The Marketplace will operate under an Agency model, which means that you, as the content creator, will set the price for every piece of content you submit. Becoming a partner doesn’t alter your ability to sell your content on your own websites and storefronts. Just like with FSX, you can continue to sell your content outside of our Marketplace.”
Microsoft Flight Simulator is available to buy on Steam, with the basic version taking off at £59.99 and the deluxe version landing new planes at premium airports for £109.99. You can also pick it up as a part of Xbox Game Pass, for only £1. Bargain.
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