Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 has officially landed on the PlayStation 5, adding another chapter to the ongoing story of Xbox Game Studios titles crossing over to Sony’s platform. This release follows the footsteps of games like Sea of Thieves, Forza Horizon 5, Age of Empires, and Gears of War: Reloaded. With Halo set to join next year, the trend of Xbox games appearing on Sony’s console seems inevitable.
A Revolutionary Idea Sparks Change
In a conversation with Jorg Neumann, head of the Microsoft Flight Simulator franchise, it was revealed that this game might have initiated the trend. Neumann shared that discussions about expanding to the PlayStation platform began about two and a half years ago. Initially, the idea was rejected, but eventually, Microsoft reconsidered. This decision, as Neumann describes, triggered the “avalanche” of Xbox titles appearing on PlayStation.
Innovations for PlayStation 5
The development team worked diligently to ensure Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is fully optimized for the PlayStation 5 and the DualSense controller. The game boasts several PS5-exclusive features, including:
– Adaptive triggers that react to different speeds and surface types, offering sloped resistance in the air.
– Gyro controls for managing pitch and roll during flight.
– Lightbar support for visual warnings.
– Customizable touchpad functions, with a default setting for aircraft throttle control.
– Built-in controller speaker for air traffic control audio.
Strategic Moves in Gaming
Beyond its innovations, the move to bring Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 to PlayStation might be indicative of a broader strategy. As Xbox console sales face challenges and Microsoft pushes its game division to boost profitability, the shift towards a multiplatform approach seems almost inevitable. The costly acquisitions of companies like ZeniMax and Activision Blizzard have likely influenced this direction.
This marks a significant moment where Microsoft, in pursuit of greater reach and profitability, begins to embrace a multiplatform strategy for its Xbox games.