Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available now. It launched on November 19, 2024, for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, through the Microsoft Store/Xbox ecosystem and Steam. It is also currently listed for PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro. Xbox and PC players can buy it outright, access it through eligible Game Pass plans, or stream it through supported Xbox Cloud Gaming configurations.
Where can you play Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024?
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a standalone sequel rather than an expansion for the 2020 simulator. Its native platforms include Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, Steam, PlayStation 5, and PS5 Pro, according to the current official game listing. The original Xbox and PC launch took place on November 19, 2024.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
There is no native Xbox One version. Xbox One access, where available, is through cloud gaming rather than a local Xbox One installation. Cloud availability depends on the Game Pass plan, region, device, and catalog status.
On PC, the storefront matters:
- Microsoft Store/Xbox app: Connected to the Xbox ecosystem and eligible for Xbox Play Anywhere. Buying the Xbox version provides the Microsoft Store PC version at no additional cost.
- Steam: A separate PC purchase. It does not include the Xbox Play Anywhere entitlement.
Microsoft’s current platform information is available on the official Flight Simulator site and the Xbox product page.
#1 Best Overall
![Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Standard Edition (Pre-Purchase/Launch Day) – Play on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51wzIlxO80L._SL160_.jpg)
- CONTENT IS PLAYABLE AT 6AM PST ON NOV-19-2024.**
- MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR 2024: Explore the world with our largest fleet of aircraft and take simulation to new heights while pursuing your aviation career within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- STANDARD EDITION: Includes over 65 aircraft and 150 handcrafted airports
- FLY WITH PURPOSE: Pursue your aviation career throughout the world with dynamically generated missions ranging from Medevac and Search & Rescue to Aerial Firefighting and Passenger Transport
- CHALLENGE LEAGUE: Compete against other pilots in the iconic Reno and Red Bull Air Races
What is new in the 2024 simulator?
This is more than an aircraft-roster update. The game adds an aviation career structure with certifications and missions, including medevac operations, remote cargo flights, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and airline passenger transport.
It also features dynamic weather, night flying, atmospheric simulation, and a detailed digital representation of Earth. Microsoft and Asobo Studio describe the game as using an evolved engine alongside cloud, machine-learning, graphics, and simulation technologies. Those are first-party descriptions, not independent performance measurements.
The simulator also expands aircraft, ground, water, and soft-body physics. The core experience remains a detailed flight simulator, but career progression gives newcomers more structured goals than the largely open-ended 2020 release.
How can you access it?
| Option | Best for | Important caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox Series X|S | Players who want a straightforward console setup | Less flexible than PC for mods, utilities, multi-monitor setups, and specialist peripherals |
| Microsoft Store PC | Players who want PC flexibility and Xbox Play Anywhere | Performance depends on the entire PC, not just the graphics card |
| Steam | Players committed to PC and the Steam ecosystem | PC-only purchase; no Xbox Play Anywhere entitlement |
| Game Pass | Players who want to try the simulator before buying | Access depends on plan, region, platform, and catalog availability |
| Xbox Cloud Gaming | Players testing the game on supported lower-powered devices | Requires a supported plan, device, region, and reliable connection |
Game Pass: access is not ownership
The Xbox product page lists the game with PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft’s current Game Pass lineup uses several plan names, including Essential, Premium, Ultimate, and PC Game Pass, but the included games and cloud benefits vary by plan, region, and time. Check the current Game Pass page before subscribing.
Game Pass is the lowest-commitment way to test whether the simulator suits you. It is particularly useful if you are undecided between Xbox and PC or want to try cloud streaming before buying hardware. However, it is not permanent ownership. If the subscription ends or the game leaves the catalog, you need to buy the base game to continue playing.
Marketplace purchases are associated with your account, but owning add-ons does not necessarily give you access to the simulator itself after Game Pass access ends.
Which edition should you buy?
| Edition | Additional content | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | The base game, with more than 65 aircraft and 150 handcrafted airports on the current Xbox listing. Xbox Wire’s launch description used a 70-aircraft figure. | Most players, especially newcomers and Game Pass users |
| Deluxe | Standard Edition plus 10 additional aircraft and five additional handcrafted international airports | Players who specifically want those included aircraft and airports |
| Premium Deluxe | Standard Edition plus 25 additional aircraft and 10 additional handcrafted international airports | Enthusiasts who know they want the listed extras |
| Aviator | Premium Deluxe content plus 30 Microsoft-published Marketplace aircraft released during 2021–2024 | Collectors and players who value the bundled Marketplace aircraft |
Official pages have used different aircraft-count wording, so the figures should be treated as listing-specific rather than one universal total. Check the official store for current prices and contents.
Rank #2
![Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Premium Deluxe Edition (Pre-Purchase/Launch Day) – Play on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC [Digital Code]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51p9VlYT7TL._SL160_.jpg)
- CONTENT IS PLAYABLE AT 6AM PST ON NOV-19-2024.**
- MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR 2024: Explore the world with our largest fleet of aircraft and take simulation to new heights while pursuing your aviation career within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
- PREMIUM DELUXE EDITION: Includes everything from the Standard Edition plus 25 additional aircraft and 10 additional handcrafted international airports
- FLY WITH PURPOSE: Pursue your aviation career throughout the world with dynamically generated missions ranging from Medevac and Search & Rescue to Aerial Firefighting and Passenger Transport
- CHALLENGE LEAGUE: Compete against other pilots in the iconic Reno and Red Bull Air Races
Higher editions do not provide a better simulation engine, world, or career system. Their main benefit is extra content. Standard is the sensible default; Deluxe and Premium Deluxe make sense only when the specific aircraft and airports justify the price difference. Aviator is best viewed as a collector bundle, not automatically the best edition.
PC requirements
The official FAQ lists the following specifications. Microsoft’s older FAQ uses Windows 10 with the latest update, while the current product information also refers to Windows 11. Confirm the live store requirements before installing, particularly for operating-system support, storage, RAM, and bandwidth.
| Minimum | Recommended | Ideal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10, latest update | Windows 10, latest update | Windows 10, latest update |
| DirectX | DX12 | DX12 | DX12 |
| CPU | Ryzen 5 2600X or Core i7-6800K | Ryzen 7 2700X or Core i7-10700K | Ryzen 9 7900X or Core i7-14700K |
| GPU | Radeon RX 5700 or GeForce GTX 970 | Radeon RX 5700 XT or GeForce RTX 2080 | Radeon RX 7900 XT or GeForce RTX 4080 |
| VRAM | 4GB | 8GB | 12GB |
Meeting the minimum specification is not a promise of high settings or a fixed frame rate. Flight Simulator workloads depend heavily on CPU performance, GPU and VRAM, storage, internet services, streaming conditions, resolution, and graphics settings. A system near minimum specifications may require substantial compromises.
Does it require an internet connection?
Yes. The Xbox listing says the game requires broadband internet, significant downloads, a Microsoft account, and internet access to play. Even an installed Xbox or PC copy relies on connected services and streamed or downloaded world data. Expect a large initial installation and updates rather than a quick disc-style setup.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Cloud gaming avoids the full local installation, but shifts the requirements to connection quality, latency, bandwidth, queues, and service availability. Streaming can also make precise flight controls feel less responsive than a local installation.
Do Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 aircraft and add-ons carry over?
The 2024 simulator is standalone, but Microsoft says current aircraft and airports from the 2020 simulator, along with virtually all Marketplace add-ons, are supported. Owners of the 2020 Deluxe or Premium Deluxe editions receive the aircraft and airports unique to those editions in 2024, including when buying the Standard Edition of 2024.
That does not mean every entitlement transfers across every platform. The official platform guide warns that in-sim Marketplace purchases do not transfer when switching to Xbox or PlayStation, and players may need to repurchase the simulator and desired add-ons on another platform. The FAQ also describes a specific path for 2020 Microsoft Store content to carry into a 2024 Steam copy; this should not be generalized into universal cross-platform transfer.
Rank #3
- MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR 2024: Explore the world with our largest fleet of aircraft and take simulation to new heights while pursuing your aviation career within Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
- PREMIUM DELUXE STEELBOOK EDITION: Includes the Jumbo SteelBook case, custom pilot's lanyard with Standard Edition digital game code, and a message from the developer.
- FLY WITH PURPOSE: Pursue your aviation career throughout the world with dynamically generated missions ranging from Medevac and Search & Rescue to Aerial Firefighting and Passenger Transport.
- CHALLENGE LEAGUE: Compete against other pilots in the iconic Reno and Red Bull Air Races.
- ADVANCED SIMULATION: Enhanced physics and aircraft systems and a groundbreaking flight planner create an unparalleled simulation experience.
Before changing storefronts or consoles, check the official FAQ and platform guide for the exact entitlement involved.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Which platform is right for you?
Xbox Series X|S
Xbox is the simplest route: install the game, use a standard controller, and avoid PC graphics tuning. It can also cost less than assembling a PC capable of running the simulator well. Series X and Series S are different hardware targets, however, so do not assume identical visual performance.
Xbox is less flexible than PC for community tools, multi-monitor configurations, mods, and advanced peripherals.
Microsoft Store PC
Choose the Microsoft Store/Xbox version if you own an Xbox or may buy one later. Xbox Play Anywhere can cover Xbox and Microsoft Store PC with one purchase, and PC offers more graphics, display, and hardware flexibility.
The trade-off is more complicated installation and troubleshooting. Outdated packages in the PC Community Folder can cause loading, performance, or stability problems.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Steam
Steam is the natural choice for players committed to PC whose libraries and workflows are centered there. It is not the best choice if Xbox access or Play Anywhere matters. The official platform guide also says the game is not Steam Deck-compatible at this time.
Cloud gaming
Cloud gaming is useful for trying the simulator without a capable local PC or a full download. It is less suitable for players who demand the lowest possible latency, maximum image quality, or extensive specialist-control support.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Do you need a flight stick?
No. A standard gamepad is enough to begin, particularly on Xbox. A HOTAS can provide more precise throttle and stick control, while a yoke, throttle quadrant, and rudder pedals become worthwhile for players who spend substantial time in realistic aircraft.
Check compatibility with the exact platform before buying. A peripheral that works on Windows may not work on Xbox, and the reverse can also be true. Microsoft’s official store identifies the Thrustmaster T.Flight HOTAS One as a plug-and-play option for Xbox Series X|S and PC, but dedicated hardware remains optional.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Installation paths
Xbox Series X|S
- Open the Xbox or Microsoft Store on the console.
- Search for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
- Choose an edition or install it through an eligible Game Pass catalog.
- Allow time for the download and required updates.
- Sign in with the Microsoft account associated with the purchase or subscription.
See the official Xbox installation guide if the entitlement or installation is not recognized.
Xbox app on Windows
- Install or update the Xbox app.
- Sign in with the correct Microsoft account.
- Find the game and select Install.
- Choose the installation drive if prompted.
- Launch the simulator and complete its in-game package download and account setup.
The full procedure is covered in Microsoft’s Xbox app installation guide.
Steam
- Buy or redeem the Steam version.
- Install it through the Steam client.
- Launch the simulator and complete the in-game installation process.
- Sign in or link the required Microsoft/Xbox account if prompted.
- If loading or performance is poor, temporarily move outdated Community Folder packages out of the simulator directory.
Refer to the official Steam installation guide for storefront-specific help.
Common problems and fixes
The game is missing from the library
- Confirm whether it was bought through Microsoft Store/Xbox or Steam.
- Check that you are using the account that made the purchase or holds the Game Pass subscription.
- Confirm that the current Game Pass plan includes the game.
- Check regional availability and sign out and back in to refresh the entitlement.
- Use official Flight Simulator support before buying another copy.
Long loading times or PC crashes
Update Windows and your graphics drivers, confirm the current system requirements, and temporarily disable third-party add-ons. Move outdated Community Folder packages out of the simulator directory before testing again. Minimum specifications do not guarantee smooth performance.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsYou expected offline play
The game should not be treated as a fully offline simulator. Plan for broadband access, updates, streamed or downloaded world data, and Microsoft account services.
Which version should you choose?
- Choose Game Pass if you want to test the simulator, already subscribe, or want to compare Xbox, PC, and cloud access before buying.
- Choose the Standard Edition if you expect long-term play and want ownership without depending on a subscription.
- Choose Microsoft Store/Xbox if you want one purchase covering Xbox and Microsoft Store PC through Play Anywhere.
- Choose Steam if you are committed to PC and do not need Xbox access.
- Choose Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, or Aviator only when the specific included aircraft and airports justify the additional cost.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is available now, but the best purchase depends less on the headline edition and more on your platform, internet connection, PC hardware, and expectations about ownership and add-on transfers.
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.
