It’s a big day for virtual reality (VR) flight sim fans as Asobo Studio rolls out SteamVR support for Microsoft Flight Simulator, massively expanding the range of compatible headsets.
After announcing the Microsoft Flight Simulator roadmap in November which included the VR update for December, in a video featurette last week, the team went into further detail regarding development. Working closely with Alex Kipman and the Microsoft Mixed Reality (MR) team, Asobo Studio was able to integrate OpenXR technology, the standard being employed to make cross-platform development easier.
This ensures that no matter whether you own an Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Valve Index, Windows Mixed Reality headset or Oculus Quest using Oculus Link, you’ll be able to access Microsoft Flight Simulator. Just like the standard version, VR players can select from a wide variety of control options, whether that’s a keyboard and mouse, gamepad, or the full sim HOTAS option. There’s no motion controller option mentioned though.
Interacting with cockpit instruments is via mouse, although Asobo has improved that feature with a 3D mouse cursor. Players can also customise their environment by bringing game panels into their surroundings, such as useful tools like the weather panel.
For those that haven’t bought Microsoft Flight Simulator yet, awaiting the VR update, the title is available in three versions. Each simply adds more content, with the Deluxe version adding 5 more airports and planes, whilst the Premium Deluxe Edition expands that further with an additional 5 planes and airports.
Microsoft Flight Simulator has made headlines thanks to its detailed graphics, ability to fly anywhere in the world, real-time weather and traffic systems to name just a few of its features. For further VR updates, keep reading VRFocus.
via Mint VR