Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is a detailed flight simulation game for PC that places players in control of a wide range of aircraft across a full-scale recreation of Earth. The Local Legends Pack 2 expands the roster with ten additional aircraft drawn from aviation history, each modeled with attention to unique flight characteristics and systems.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on realistic aircraft operation supported by an enhanced physics engine that simulates thousands of rigid-body surfaces along with soft-body elements for items like cloth and ropes. Players manage electrical, pneumatic, fuel, and hydraulic systems in detail, along with payload and avionics such as the Universal UNS-1 FMS. Preflight inspections and walkaround checks form part of the routine before takeoff. Ground and water handling receive specific improvements that affect taxiing, takeoff rolls, and landings in varied conditions. These elements combine to reward precise inputs and careful planning during every flight.
Game Modes
Career Mode provides structured progression where pilots start at any airport, complete certifications, and unlock specializations that lead to missions such as medevac, remote cargo operations, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and airline passenger transport. Challenge League offers competitive scored events including rally races, precision landings, and low-altitude challenges with leaderboards. World Photographer mode focuses on short flights to capture specific landmarks and vistas under defined criteria. Free Flight serves as the open sandbox option for unrestricted exploration with full control over routes, weather, and time of day. Additional activities include landing challenges and bush trips that appear in the activities menu after updates.
Aircraft from Local Legends Pack 2
The ten aircraft added through this pack cover a range of eras and roles. The Aero Ae-45 and Ae-145 represent light twin-engine designs suited for regional travel. The ATR 42-600 and 72-600 deliver turboprop performance for short-haul routes. The Bell 47J Ranger brings classic helicopter handling to utility and observation tasks. The Curtiss C-46 Commando and Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor provide options for larger piston-engine transports with distinct handling traits. The Dornier Do 31 and Do X highlight experimental and early flying-boat concepts. The Saab 17 B offers a military trainer perspective, while the Short SC.7 Skyvan and Westland Scout / Wasp add STOL and light helicopter capabilities. These models integrate directly into all available modes and benefit from the same systems simulation applied to the rest of the fleet.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception shows a mixed rating on Steam with ongoing Sim Updates that have addressed launch issues and added features such as refined career payouts and bush trip support. Critics note the depth of the career system and improved physics as strengths that appeal to those seeking authentic simulation experiences. The game continues to receive free scenery and activity updates that expand available content. It suits players interested in methodical flight procedures, historical aircraft, and varied mission types rather than fast-paced action. Those who value detailed systems management and long-term progression will find substantial engagement, while casual users may prefer starting with free flight or photographer activities before committing to career tracks. The addition of the Local Legends aircraft further broadens options for pilots who enjoy exploring lesser-known types alongside modern operations.
