Developer Simworks Studios, renowned for their rendition of the Kodiak 100 for MSFS has recently provided a development update on their Discord and Facebook regarding the RV-10/14, Okavango delta, and their PC-12.
In light of the recent Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 announcement, SimWorks Studios has stated that as their existing add-ons follow the guidelines of the MSFS SDK, they believe that they will work fine in FS2024. They will update the installers to give users the option between MSFS2020 and MSFS2024 and users should be able to use the existing products without any paid upgrades. However, it’s worth noting that if an add-on takes advantage of the new features exclusive to FS2024, such as the ability to perform specialized tasks, SimWorks Studios may choose to charge extra for such expansions. For example, if an aircraft like the Kodiak 100 requires additional work to enable the dropping of parachutists, an expansion product might be introduced with an associated cost. Nevertheless, if the existing add-ons continue to function flawlessly in FS2024 without any modifications, users can enjoy the enhancements without any additional charges.
In other news, developers have announced updates for the RV-10 and RV-14 aircraft, addressing minor code bugs and compatibility issues. The RV-10 update specifically focuses on resolving problems with the PMS50 GTN650 and GTN750, while the RV-14 update improves ground handling for the taildragger variant in the Microsoft Store version. These updates are expected to be available next week, benefiting both Microsoft Store and other vendors.
Furthermore, the much-anticipated update for Okavango Delta is set to arrive next week. This update brings a total of 14 new airstrips to the region, including Chitabe FBME, Delta FBDT, Kanana FBKK, Khwai FBKR, Mapula FBND, Ntswi FBND and camp, Pom Pom FBNO, Rann FBMQ, Sanctuary FBMB, Seronga FBSH, Shakawe FBSW, Shindi FBMJ and camp, Xaxaba FBXB and camp, and Xugana FBXG. Alongside the new airstrips, the update introduces hundreds of traveling animals, which exhibit realistic behavior, including running away if approached too closely. Additionally, minor fixes have been made to existing camps and airstrips, as well as improvements to animal LOD switching.
A sneak peek at the PC-12 interior textures has been unveiled, showcasing the level of detail and customization options available. The textures for both the cockpit and cabin are being refined and improved, allowing for a fully customizable experience.
Repainters will appreciate the flexibility provided, as changing a few small textures will completely refurbish the cabin’s look. The advantage of this approach is that it doesn’t require large 4k textures for every livery, keeping the package size manageable. The cabin has already undergone significant changes, with a new kind of wood and carpeting, demonstrating the level of customization available to users. The developers have put great effort into ensuring that the textures and details of the PC-12’s interior are of the highest quality.
Turning our attention to the exterior of the aircraft, the model has undergone a final cleanup to add missing details and correct placements of various items. Flap actuators have been remodeled and animated, further enhancing the realism of the aircraft. The exterior is currently undergoing a final pass to ensure all aspects meet the highest standards and is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
So far no release date has been announced for the highly anticipated PC-12 however when we find out we will inform you here at Threshold.