Flight Simulator X details

Microsoft has released more details of Flight Simulator X, the latest instalment in the hit PC series.

According to Microsoft, FSX is "the most revolutionary addition to the Flight Simulator franchise yet". The game is designed to make the most of Windows Vista (although it'll work with other operating systems just fine) and the very latest hardware, and MS says many of the new features have been developed following requests from fans.

We're promised a huge range of aircraft, many of which will be tied to specific missions. Microsoft also says it will be easier to download extra aircraft designed by Flight Simulator community members, and with a bit of luck you should be able to fly aircraft from FS 2004 in the new game.

FSX will feature an astonishing 24,000 airports, which includes "a select number of high-detail airports". There will also be "a new level of "interactivity" that the add-on community will certainly expand upon," apparently.

Naturally you can expect a bundle of graphical improvements to everything from aircraft models and landscapes to lighting effects - as the newly released screenshots show.

For those FS fans who are all about the gameplay, there will be a new mission-based element so you can get a sense of achievement as you complete objectives and progress through the game. The multiplayer game is also being revamped "to allow the community to connect in new ways," too.

Microsoft Flight Simulator X is slated for a release at the end of 2006.