Microsoft Flight Simulator first update teased, launch info to come next week

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (Image credit: Microsoft)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft has issued its first development update since the launch of Microsoft Flight Simulator on Windows PCs.
  • The company has outlined plans to deliver its first post-launch patch, with a release date to come next week.

Microsoft Flight Simulator will soon receive its first bug-fixing update, as unveiled in a new development update from Microsoft and developer Asobo Studio. The latest entry in the staple simulation series recently launched for Windows PCs, making headlines for its hyper-realistic replica of the globe backed by the company's cloud prowess. It compiles satellite imagery and artificial intelligence with unprecedented results, already one of the highest-rated PC games in 2020.

Microsoft has now dropped the latest weekly development update for its new Flight Simulator, expanding on plans to deliver its first post-launch update. Players faced a handful of widespread issues at launch, primarily hinging on downloads and content delivery, which its first patch aims to address over the weeks ahead.

"The team is currently working hard to provide a patch update to address issues that have been recently reported," the Microsoft Flight Simulator team stated via a blog post. "Expect a release date for the patch in our August 27th update."

Microsoft hasn't discussed which issues the first patch will address, but its current list of known bugs and issues suggests common problems impacting access to the game. That includes slow downloads and other game-breaking technical snafus, while new game content is promised later in the year.

Microsoft Flight Simulator is out on Windows PCs, starting at $60 via the Microsoft Store and Steam, and included with its Xbox Game Pass PC subscription.

Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.