Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a flight simulation game that places players in control of detailed aircraft across a full-scale recreation of Earth. The Local Legends Pack 1 expands the available fleet with ten historical aircraft designed for varied flight experiences on PC.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on realistic flight operations supported by an enhanced physics engine that models over 10,000 rigid-body surfaces on aircraft along with soft-body elements for items such as cloth and ropes. Players manage detailed systems including electrical, pneumatic, fuel, hydraulic, payload, and passenger components plus advanced avionics. Preflight inspections and walkaround checks form part of the routine before takeoff. A native flight planner handles IFR and VFR routes, fuel calculations, vertical profiles, and ETOPS planning with access to charts and airport data. Improved ground and water handling contributes to accurate taxiing, takeoff, and landing sequences across diverse environments.
The ten aircraft from Local Legends Pack 1 integrate directly into these systems. Models such as the Junkers JU 52, Fokker F.VII, and Boeing 307 Stratoliner feature period-appropriate cockpits and performance characteristics that suit both short regional hops and longer cross-country flights. Twin-engine options like the Beechcraft Model 18 Twin Beech and De Havilland Canada DHC-4 Caribou allow practice with multi-engine procedures while seaplanes including the Dornier Do J Wal, Latécoère 631, and Savoia-Marchetti S.55 provide opportunities for water operations.
Game Modes
Free Flight serves as the primary sandbox where players select any aircraft, departure point, weather conditions, and time of day to explore the world map without restrictions. Career Mode structures progression through certifications and reputation building that unlock specialized activities such as medevac flights, remote cargo operations, aerial firefighting, search and rescue missions, and commercial passenger transport. Challenge League offers competitive scored events with leaderboards while additional activities include rally races, precision landings, and low-altitude challenges. World Photographer mode focuses on short flights to capture images of landmarks and natural sites according to specific framing criteria.
Multiplayer integrates into most modes, allowing shared flights or competitive participation in events. The historical aircraft from the pack fit naturally into career activities that emphasize older airframes or into free flight sessions that highlight their unique handling traits.
Updates and Current State
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 launched in November 2024 and continues to receive numbered Sim Updates that refine career mode mechanics, add activities such as bush trips, and improve performance stability. Free world and city scenery updates expand the base environment over time. The Local Legends Pack 1 aircraft remain available as permanent additions to the fleet for players who purchase the content or own the Aviator Edition.
Is It Worth Playing?
Reception shows mixed results among players on Steam while critics have assigned generally favorable scores in the mid to high 70s on aggregate sites. The career mode and structured activities provide clear goals that extend play sessions beyond unstructured flying. Ongoing updates address launch issues and refine systems, improving reliability for those who value simulation depth. The game suits players interested in detailed aircraft handling, global exploration, and progression through aviation roles. Those seeking only casual sightseeing may find the systems and career structure more involved than necessary, while enthusiasts of historical aircraft will appreciate the specific models added by Local Legends Pack 1 for their authentic flight characteristics and visual detail.
