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Good news for flight sim fans: Microsoft has announced that their upcoming simulator will be free-to-play. Microsoft Flight, the eagerly awaited sequel to their long-running flight sim line, is scheduled for release later this year and penniless gamers will be able to download a copy free of charge. “Many people dream of flying,” said Joshua Howard, executive producer of Microsoft Flight, “but few have the chance to experience the fun of exploring the world from above. Microsoft Flight provides players the opportunity to explore that curiosity and interest. Aviation can be incredibly technical, but we’ve taken great care to build an experience that makes taking to the skies thrilling and accessible for everyone.” Like in most free-to-play titles, gamers will have the option to purchase new content or items, but if you’re content to fly around Hawaii, discovering treasures and completing missions, you can hold on to your cash. Players who have a Games for Windows – LIVE account will also get a couple of additional perks, including a Boeing Stearman plane. 
“ICON Aircraft and Microsoft Flight both share the goal of making the fun of flying accessible to everyone who’s ever dreamed about it, “said ICON Aircraft CEO Kirk Hawkins. “ICON does this by fusing world-class product design with the very best engineering, and Microsoft by combining the excitement of a great gaming experience with the authenticity of a top-notch flight simulator.” Microsoft hasn’t revealed exactly when Flight will be released, but they’re currently planning for a spring launch. In the mean time, you flight sim fans had better get those overly-complicated cockpit controllers out of the attic. That Boeing Stearman plane isn’t going to crash itself. By Josh Engen |