Microsoft has shared the latest update from the new Flight Simulator on their blog, which includes new screenshots and a brief update on the status of development information updates.
As previously mentioned, Microsoft will be postponing some of the content due to the current global pandemic, which has meant that the development team has had to adapt their working practices. With teams now working from home, it has meant that they need to now find ways to work as effectively as possible to continue providing for the community. As a result, the following development updates have been postponed.
- POSTPONED – EPISODE 8 (Multiplayer) will be released.
- POSTPONED – DR roadmap preview for April/May will be released. (potentially delayed)
- POSTPONED – EPISODE 7 (IFR) will be released.
- POSTPONED – Partnership Series update will be released.
- POSTPONED – Feedback Snapshot update.
As for the Alpha build, those of you who have access will soon be able to access a new build which includes a range of new features. Some of those features include Groups to multiplayer where you can add friends on the world map and join them. Furthermore, Training Missions will be added and new peripherals have now got support within the simulator. Another exciting addition to the Alpha build is the inclusion of the Cessna 152.
The update is due sometime next week. A full log of what is expected to be included in the Alpha Build update is at the bottom of the article.
Finally, regarding Alpha Builds, the team are in discussions with how to ensure that everyone who received an acceptance email has access to the Alpha, along with how more people can be added as quickly as possible.
As we mentioned a few days ago, Asobo Studios are currently continuing to work from remote locations. They shared a brief message a few days ago, which you can read here.
Finally, the team shared a range of new screenshots from the Alpha testers.
That is everything for this week. Sadly, no indication on when the next update will be, but we’ll keep you updated.
HIGHLIGHTS
- We’ve added Groups to multiplayer, and while still early in development you should be able to Add Friends and find them on the world map, and click to join them.
- We’ve added Training Missions for those who are new to Flight Simulator. These missions will take you through the Basic Controls, Attitudes and Instruments, and Take-off, Level flight and Landing.
- The Cessna 152 has been added and is now cleared for takeoff
- We’ve added Live Events which are time-limited activities that we plan to switch out with different events frequently.
- Peripherals Support has been improved, and more devices added. Please note that due to these changes, previous mappings from the Alpha will no longer work with the current Alpha.
- We are hard at work prepping the airliners for release in the next Alpha update!
NEW CONTENT
- Training missions
- Cessna 152
- Sedona Landing Challenge
PLANE SPECIFIC UPDATES
· Cessna 172 Skyhawk (G1000) has been improved for flight controls and instruments
· DA40 TDI instrumentation improvements
· DA62 has improved pilot controls
· DA62 instrumentation improvements
· Beechcraft Bonanza G36 issues glass cockpits improvements
· TBM 930 flight controls improved
· TBM 930 instrumentation improved
· TBM 930 animations have been updated
