UPDATE: Microsoft has confirmed that Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 will launch on PS5 on December 8, 2023, marking a historic shift for the flight simulation franchise. This release comes after a previous “no” from Xbox regarding a PS5 version, showcasing a dramatic evolution in Xbox’s multiplatform strategy.
The long-awaited title is currently available through early access, offering a glimpse into the first time this iconic series has reached PlayStation consoles. This move is part of a broader initiative by Xbox Game Studios to expand its gaming portfolio beyond its usual boundaries.
In an exclusive interview with Jorg Neumann, Head of Microsoft Flight Simulator, he revealed that the idea of porting the game to PS5 was originally pitched during its development but was initially dismissed. “I proposed, probably two and a half years ago, to go to PlayStation,” Neumann shared, expressing the evolution of thinking within Microsoft.
The shift began when Sony reached out to Microsoft, expressing interest in the franchise. Neumann explained how this collaboration has led to a significant change in Xbox’s approach, with titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Halo: Campaign Evolved now making their way to PlayStation.
Neumann elaborated on the technical challenges of bringing the game to PS5. The team, alongside Climax Studios, worked diligently to optimize the game for PlayStation systems, ensuring that both the standard and Pro versions deliver an immersive experience. On PS5, the game runs at a resolution of 2560×1440 upscaled to 3840×2160, with the Pro version achieving nearly native 4K resolution.
The excitement extends to the VR community as well. Neumann confirmed that support for PlayStation VR2 is on the horizon, with optimizations currently underway. “We’re actually pretty close, but not 100% there,” he stated, indicating that further enhancements are expected in the coming months.
With the game’s arrival on PS5, Neumann anticipates a surge in players adopting controllers and peripherals specifically designed for flight simulation. He noted a significant increase in users transitioning from traditional gaming setups to more specialized hardware since the launch on Xbox.
As Microsoft continues to embrace a more open platform strategy, Neumann hinted at the potential for future ports to other systems, including mobile and new consoles. “I think there are lots of opportunities,” he said, emphasizing the franchise’s long history across various platforms since its inception in 1979.
The immediate relevance of this launch cannot be overstated. With flight simulation enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the arrival of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on PS5, the gaming community is buzzing with excitement. This pivotal moment not only redefines the accessibility of the franchise but also showcases the evolving dynamics between tech giants in the gaming industry.
Stay tuned for more updates as the launch date approaches, and experience the thrill of flying in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on PS5!
