Without a doubt, in terms of scope, tech, and visuals, and sheer features the latest Microsoft Flight Simulator is one of the most impressive releases in years. As per our full review, it basically gives you a stunning planet to explore from up on high. That said some of the source data and footage (via Microsoft’s Bing) is a little mixed, leading to some locations not quite on par with others. Which has led to some players using the photogrammetry from Google Maps to create their own versions of real-world locations.

Namely Australia, which looks great but not on par with most other countries in Microsoft Flight Simulator. As per Reddit user High_Frame_Rates we can see the difference here with one of Melbourne’s most iconic locations - the MCG.


Now, how the above was achieved is rather complicated and very laborious (as seen in this thread) - but with full mod support it’s great to see players and fans using alternate methods to improve some Flight Simulator’s vast scenery. Though with Microsoft and Google being competitors we’re not sure how they’d take mods using Google data and imagery over Bing.