Microsoft Flight Simulator just hit a major gaming milestone. Since the series began in 1982, it has become a household name around the world, and now it has broken quite an impressive record for its number of players.
The game has accumulated 15 million unique players, as shared by its official social media account on X/Twitter. It appears Microsoft’s investment in the revival of the franchise has paid off in the best way the company might have expected.
Microsoft Flight Simulator is Breaking Records in the Skies
Flight Simulator, the game that lets you fly pretty much anywhere on Earth, has hit a milestone that is worth noting. The title has managed to rack up a whopping number of 15 million players. This isn’t just about the numbers, though, it’s about what it means for Xbox and Microsoft as the two look to the future of gaming.
🎉 We're thrilled to celebrate 15 million pilots who have taken flight with us in Microsoft Flight Simulator!
Thanks to each and every one of you for filling the skies with your adventures! ✈️ Blue skies and tailwinds. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/kJ70OZNVzf
— Microsoft Flight Simulator ✈️ (@MSFSofficial) June 22, 2024
Flight Simulator has become the fastest-growing entry in the franchise’s history after its release in 2020, and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning graphics that make the player feel like they are really among the clouds, coupled with realistic flight mechanics, this game has been an impressive technical achievement since day one.
But it’s not just the hardcore flight sim enthusiasts who are flocking to the game. It has also attracted a whole new crowd of gamers looking for something different. It’s something that lets them explore the world from a whole new perspective, thanks to its cloud streaming capabilities.
Flight Simulator 2020 has also gained a passionate community of players who share a love for aviation and exploration. From sharing tips on the various locations to photo mode galleries, the community is going strong.
Why Microsoft Is Betting Big on the Franchise
The game is showing the world that Xbox isn’t just about your typical narrative or gameplay-focused titles anymore. It’s about pushing the limits of what gaming can be, in other mediums, with other types of games.
Microsoft has been doubling down on its commitment to gaming for years now, especially with its recent acquisitions, and change in third-party strategy. This game is a good proof of that commitment. The company worked to create a game that not only looks amazing, but also plays smoothly. There has also been significant investment into the technology that powers the game.
With Xbox Series X|S pushing the envelope on the publisher’s cloud gaming service, Game Pass, and the offerings in its library of games, it’s clear Microsoft is focused on pushing the brand forward.
The title is set to receive somewhat of a sequel later this year with Flight Simulator 2024. This newer version will feature several types of missions and other objectives. It is also set to up the ante with even more stunning visuals and lifelike details. It will include next-level weather systems, improved aerodynamics, and a world that’s even more detailed and alive. All add-ons for the 2020 version will carry onto the 2024 version, according to the publisher.
Are you looking forward to the next installment in the Flight Simulator series? Let us know in the comments below.
