Over on the official Microsoft Flight Simulator blog, new details have emerged about what the next few months looks like for simulator updates. Although we just had a new update that addresses some issues with weather and VR, the next World Update (World Update VII) has been slightly delayed. We also learn about when to expect the Antonov AN-2 and also when to expect Sim Update VIII.
Starting with the World Update VII delay. Originally planned to release on January 25th 2022, World Update VII will now debut on January 31st 2022. If you missed it last year, World Update VII will focus on Australia, with all-new photogrammetry, detailed aerial imagery and of course new hand-crafted objects and scenery. In addition, January 31st will also see the release of Local Legend II: Fokker FVII. This new local legend will join the Junkers JU-52 and has been developed by the Orbx team.
Following on from the World Update release, we will see a new Feature Discovery series drop on February 17th. This new video will focus on aerodynamics. After that, we will see the release of the new sim update and also the Antonov AN-2.
Both Sim Update VIII and the Antonov AN-2 will release on February 22nd 2022. Sim Update VIII will mostly be a ‘bug-fixing update’ that will continue to address bugs with the simulator and enhance the product further. The Antonov AN-2 is being developed by ATSimulations and was originally due to release at the end of 2021. However, the small delay has meant that the team has had time to polish the plane ahead of its release. It will come with a variety of configurations, liveries and also modern/classic panels. We already know that the Antonov AN-2 will release for $14.99.
Things get a little vaguer in March, but we will see the release of World Update VIII and Local Legend III. What that World Update and aircraft will be is not yet currently known.
All that said, 2022 is already shaping up to be just as an exciting year for Microsoft Flight Simulator updates. We’re keen to learn more about the upcoming world updates and the all-new local legend aircraft.
If you missed the last developer Q&A session, there was plenty to see, including PMDG confirming the 737 will be coming to Marketplace and also teased a 757. Be sure to also check out our latest interview with Jorg about the future of the simulator and also the trailer for the Reno Air Races DLC.
Featured Image Credit: isaiahnparadise (Twitter)
Update: We have removed reference to New Zealand in the post. That was a mistake on our part and we apologize for the confusion. To clarify, Australia is the focus for the next update.
