Microsoft Flight Simulator has announced its collaboration with Asobo Studio for the upcoming Dune expansion, set to debut on November 3, 2021. The Dune-themed expansion will showcase a lore-accurate Ornithopter, one of the most iconic vehicles from the series, in the game.
Asobo Studio has taken great care in creating a 1:1 replica of the Ornithopter, modelled after the 2021 Dune movie prop. In addition to the vehicle, the game developer has also recreated several areas of Arrakis, the world of Dune, including the capital city of Arrakeen, botanical gardens, and other well-known locations.
Interestingly, the collaboration required the developers to ensure the Ornithopter is fully analog, which means that every button and corresponding action must be manually performed, resulting in less assistance for players. The Ornithopter requires mastery of quick take-offs and landings, as well as the signature diving mechanics, which allow the player to free-fall in true bird-like fashion – a unique feature that sets the Dune expansion apart from other flight simulator games.
Players will take on the role of a beginner who must learn how to pilot the Ornithopter effectively. As a result, the experience is set to be more emergent and challenging than the typical laid-back approach that Microsoft Flight Simulator is known for.
The Dune expansion is set to launch on November 3rd, coinciding with the release of Dune: Part 2 in theaters. Fans of the Dune series and flight simulation games will undoubtedly be keen to explore the desolate plains Arrakis and master the Ornithopter in the upcoming expansion.