The latest World Update for Microsoft Flight Simulator is now available to anyone who wishes to test it before the official release later this month. Sim Update VIII will bring improved propeller simulation systems, an overhauled marketplace, more stability improvements and much more.
Perhaps the most significant change with Sim Update VIII is the all-new propeller simulation system that has been built to vastly improve how props are handled in the simulator. The new system comes with hundreds of moving surfaces covering the propeller to realistic simulate various effects such as p-factor and feathering. The Cessna 152, Cessna 208 B Grand Caravan EX and Beechcraft King Air 350i have this new system implemented with this new sim update.
As mentioned, the Marketplace has also seen a big overhaul, with a new map system displaying available airports. There’s also an improved navigation experience, making finding products a lot easier.
There are of course many other improvements with Sim Update VIII that cover a range of things. Stability has seen improvements, along with numerous VR bugs also being squashed. Weather continues to be refined with improved multi-METAR visibility ingestion, along with improved clouds during overcast situations. Aircraft across the board have been improved, along with a few improvements to the world as well.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Reno Air Races have been improved to include a new Private Match game mode, which allows you to race with friends and set various conditions.
In order to access the Sim Update VIII beta, you will need to head to the Xbox Insiders Hub, and then join the flight. You should be reminded by joining the beta, there is a possible risk that you may have to re-install the whole simulator. In order to ensure you have the smooth experience possible, you should follow the instructions given on the official blog post. You will be able to participate if you own Microsoft Flight Simulator through either the Windows Store or on Steam. Detailed instructions for both stores are, again, on the official blog post.
Whilst some things between now and March 1st may change, the changelog for build 1.23.9.0 is now online, meaning you can take a look at what to expect when Sim Update VIII releases officially on March 1st.
