Back in the late 1980s and early 1990s simulators were the experiences you looked to if you wanted to see cutting edge graphics - and that fact is set to make a return thanks to Microsoft Flight Simulator which uses a blend of real satellite imagery and technical wizardry to create truly stunning vistas. Like looking out of the window of an place, this is incredible, awe-inspiring stuff.



Of course, being a realistic flight simulator we're not exactly sure how much of this we'll actually play - but we're hoping there's enough of an auto-pilot mode to keep us in the air long enough to witness some of these views. And do a fly-by over our own houses of course.

As part of X019 the development team has announced the first wave of partners, as in companies that make planes. Which includes: Airbus, The Boeing Company, CubCrafters, Daher, Diamond Aircraft Industries, ICON Aircraft, Robin Aircraft, and Textron Aviation.