Microsoft Flight Simulator VR finally has a release date (and a surprise)

Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator (Image credit: Microsoft)

What you need to know

  • Sim Update 2 launches on December 23, 2020.
  • This update includes the much-anticipated VR mode, as well as a new feedback snapshot.
  • Microsoft Flight Simulator VR will be available on all VR headsets for Windows PCs, not just the HP Reverb G2 as originally stated.

That view above is about to get a lot more familiar to owners of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and a VR headset of any kind, as the game's long-awaited VR mode is finally being released just in time for Christmas. What's more is that, contrary to previous statements saying the game's VR mode would only be available on the HP Reverb G2, Microsoft Flight Simulator VR will work on all VR headsets from any vendor. This, according to a Twitch steam from the development team at Asobo Studio, as first noted by Polygon.

The VR update comes as part of Sim Update 2, which is scheduled to launch on December 23. That's right in time for lots of new people to unwrap great new headsets like the Oculus Quest 2 on Christmas and jump right into an ultra-immersive flight experience. Asobo Studios says the entirety of the game will be playable in VR, so you'll be able to strap that headset on and launch the game in VR without having to do anything separately on your PC beforehand.

What's more is that World Update 3 will be headed to Microsoft Flight Sim on January 28, 2021 and will include new landmarks and detail in the United Kingdom, as well as tweaks and other fixes throughout the world. Asobo Studio is also working on adding many of the most-requested features from fans, including helicopters, the missing replay functionality, support for multiple screens, and several others sometime in 2021.

From there, Sim Update 3 is scheduled for February 25, 2021, which should include lots of additional features and detail additions. Since Sim Updates are major game updates, expect new functionality and gameplay opportunities to present themselves when it launches in late February.

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Nicholas Sutrich

Nick started with DOS and NES and uses those fond memories of floppy disks and cartridges to fuel his opinions on modern tech. Whether it's VR, smart home gadgets, or something else that beeps and boops, he's been writing about it since 2011. Reach him on Twitter or Instagram @Gwanatu