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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro. The general release took place on December 8, 2025, while buyers of the Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, and Aviator Editions received early access from December 3. The PS5 version is the first Microsoft Flight Simulator release on PlayStation.
For most players, the Standard Edition is the sensible starting point. However, the game requires a constant internet connection, the advertised 125-aircraft total applies only to the Aviator Edition, and PSVR2 support arrived after launch rather than on December 8.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Flight Simulator 2024 | $104.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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RIDE 5 - PlayStation 5 | $57.06 | Buy on Amazon |
Release date and early access
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 launched on PS5 and PS5 Pro on December 8, 2025. Early access began on December 3, 2025, but only for owners of the Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, and Aviator Editions. The Standard Edition was not part of the early-access period. Launch times varied by region; Microsoft’s official PS5 FAQ lists the relevant regional timings.
This is not a separate game called Microsoft Flight Simulator 2025. It is the existing Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 released for a new platform. Asobo Studio developed the PS5 version in partnership with Microsoft Game Studios.
#1 Best Overall
- Pursue your aviation career throughout the world with dynamically-generated missions ranging from Medevac and Search & Rescue to Aerial Firefighting and Passenger Transport.
- Compete against other pilots in the iconic Reno and Red Bull Air Races.
- Enhanced physics and aircraft systems and a groundbreaking flight planner create an unparalleled simulation experience.
- Explore the most detailed digital twin of the world to date with real-time air and ship traffic and a vast array of animals.
- Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 takes simulation to new heights of authenticity and realism.
What the PS5 version includes
The PS5 release contains the main features of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, rather than a reduced spin-off. Players can fly across a detailed recreation of Earth, take part in structured aviation careers, or simply choose an aircraft and explore in Free Flight.
- Career mode: Earn aviation certifications and complete profession-based missions.
- Dynamic activities: Missions include passenger transport, cargo work, medevac flights, firefighting, and search and rescue.
- Broad aircraft selection: The roster ranges from ultralights and balloons to business jets, airliners, military transport aircraft, and fighter jets.
- On-foot exploration: Certain environments can be explored outside the aircraft.
- Living airports and skies: Real-world air traffic and airport activity contribute to the simulation.
Microsoft and PlayStation describe the world simulation in promotional terms, so claims such as “the most detailed digital twin” should be understood as marketing language rather than an independent technical ranking.
PS5 editions compared
The U.S. PlayStation Store lists four editions. Prices can vary by region and sales period; the figures below are the displayed U.S. list prices, not permanent sale prices.
| Edition | Aircraft | Airports | U.S. list price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 70 | 150 | $69.99 |
| Deluxe | 80 | 155 | $99.99 |
| Premium Deluxe | 95 | 160 | $129.99 |
| Aviator | 125 | 160 | $199.99 |
See the Standard, Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, and Aviator listings for current regional pricing and availability.
Standard Edition
The Standard Edition includes 70 aircraft and 150 airports. It is the best entry point for most PS5 owners because the core world, Career mode, Free Flight, missions, and simulation systems are not locked behind the more expensive editions.
Deluxe Edition
Deluxe adds five aircraft and five airports over Standard. It is worth considering only if those specific additions matter to you; the larger price does not fundamentally change how the game is played.
Premium Deluxe Edition
Premium Deluxe includes 95 aircraft and 160 airports. It is the more convincing upgrade for committed sim players who want its additional aircraft and handcrafted airports.
Aviator Edition
Aviator includes the Premium Deluxe content and raises the total to 125 aircraft and 160 airports. It also includes the complete fleet of 30 Microsoft-published Marketplace aircraft developed between 2021 and 2024. That makes it a collector’s or enthusiast’s package, not an automatic recommendation for casual players who mainly want to explore the world.
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Was there a preorder bonus?
Preordering any edition unlocked the Northrop T-38A Talon at release. Because the game has already launched, prospective buyers should check the current Store listing rather than assume that every new purchase still includes the preorder aircraft.
Internet and account requirements
This is an important limitation: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 requires an internet connection and cannot be launched offline, according to Microsoft’s PS5 FAQ. The game streams world content while you play, so it is dependent on online services rather than functioning as a self-contained offline simulator.
A PlayStation account is also required for online features. Connection quality can affect loading and the overall experience, making the game a poor fit for players who need reliable offline access or have restrictive data limits.
Recommended Free Tools
Controls, PS5 Pro, and PSVR2
DualSense support
The PS5 version supports the DualSense wireless controller, including adaptive triggers, vibration, gyro controls, touchpad functionality, the controller speaker, and lightbar features. DualSense Edge is supported as well. These are official compatibility features; they should not be taken as a guarantee that a controller will feel equivalent to a dedicated aviation setup.
Rank #2
- For the first time ever, RIDE 5 was made exclusively for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, bringing the game to a whole new, stunning level of realism!
- Cross play across consoles is available as well as couch coop
- Regardless of your skill level, learn to master the game with new AI based riding aids controlling brakes, cornering, steering, and throttle
- Ride 5 features the widest collection of motorcycles and stunning tracks from around the world
Beginners can use the controller with tutorials, adjustable difficulty, assists, and practice options. Enthusiasts may eventually prefer a compatible yoke, throttle quadrant, HOTAS, or rudder-pedal setup, but compatibility and prices vary by product and should be checked individually.
PS5 Pro
The game supports both PS5 and PS5 Pro. Microsoft and PlayStation have not established a universal resolution, frame-rate target, or specific PS5 Pro graphics advantage in the supplied official information, so buyers should not expect a promised performance mode without current technical testing.
PSVR2
PSVR2 was not a launch feature on December 8, 2025. It was announced as a later free update, and the current PlayStation Store listing marks PlayStation VR2 support as optional, with VR play styles and PS VR2 Sense controller support listed.
Anyone buying specifically for virtual reality should check the live product page and the latest patch information for the exact current feature set. PSVR2 requires additional hardware and may not suit players susceptible to motion sickness.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes, provided you use the available assists. The official FAQ says no previous series knowledge is required, and the game includes tutorials and instruction. New players can begin with assisted controls and simpler tasks, then disable help as they learn more realistic procedures.
Career mode provides structure and progression. Free Flight is better for unrestricted sightseeing, experimenting with aircraft, or visiting particular locations without pursuing a job.
Which edition should you buy?
- Buy Standard if you are new to the series, mainly want worldwide exploration, or are unsure how deeply you will use the additional aircraft.
- Buy Deluxe only when its five extra aircraft and five extra airports are meaningful to you.
- Buy Premium Deluxe if you already know you want its additional aircraft and handcrafted airports.
- Buy Aviator only if you are a committed enthusiast or collector who specifically wants the 30 Marketplace aircraft included in that package.
The higher editions do not remove the internet requirement, and the Standard Edition still provides the central simulation experience. The Aviator Edition’s $199.99 U.S. list price makes it difficult to justify for casual players.
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The PS5 version is a strong convenience option for console owners who do not want to buy or configure a gaming PC. PC remains the better fit for players who prioritize extensive graphics controls, specialist peripherals, third-party add-ons, and community modifications. Microsoft also lists the game for Windows 10/11 and Steam on its official platform page.
Xbox is the natural alternative for players already in that ecosystem, with Microsoft listing Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming availability. Exact subscription requirements should be checked before purchasing.
Current status
Microsoft says the PS5 version will receive free World Updates and Sim Updates. The game therefore remains an actively updated platform rather than a one-time December release, although the supplied information does not establish a fixed update schedule or promise specific future content.
Verdict
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 really did come to PlayStation, and its PS5 release is now complete rather than upcoming. It is worth considering if you want a serious civilian flight simulator on console, appreciate Career mode and Free Flight, or plan to use PSVR2. Start with Standard unless you already know which additional aircraft and airports you want.
Think twice if you need offline play, dislike streamed-world dependencies, want extensive PC-style modding, or are buying the Aviator Edition merely because its headline aircraft count is larger. The key distinction is simple: the PS5 version offers the full core game, but the 125-aircraft figure belongs only to the most expensive edition.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
