Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024: A Rocky Start, But Promises of Improvement
The launch of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 (MSFS 2024) has been far from smooth, with numerous players experiencing significant issues. Jorg Neumann, head of MSFS, and Sebastian Wloch, CEO of Asobo Studio, addressed these problems in a recent YouTube video.
Unexpected Demand Overwhelms Servers
The overwhelming response from players exceeded expectations, causing significant strain on MSFS 2024's servers and infrastructure. The initial login process involves retrieving data from a database, which, while tested with 200,000 simulated users, was ultimately overwhelmed by the actual player count. Neumann stated that the sheer number of users "really has overwhelmed our infrastructure."
Login Queues, Missing Content, and Performance Issues
Attempts to mitigate the problem by increasing server capacity initially showed promise but ultimately failed due to cache overload. This resulted in extended loading times, often stalling at 97%, and in some cases, missing aircraft or other game content. Wloch explained that the server failures caused repeated restarts, leading to the long loading screens and incomplete game assets. The missing planes, he clarified, were a direct result of the overloaded servers failing to deliver all necessary game data.
Negative Steam Reviews Reflect Player Frustration
The launch issues have resulted in a predominantly negative reception on Steam, with players reporting long login queues and missing content. The game currently holds a "Mostly Negative" rating on the platform.
Addressing the Problems and Looking Ahead
Despite the setbacks, the development team assures players that they are actively working to resolve these issues. The Steam page now states that the immediate problems have been addressed and players are now being admitted at a more stable rate. A sincere apology has been issued, and continued updates are promised via social media, forums, and the official website.
