Microsoft Flight Simulator gets its first big patch, but it may require a full reinstall

Microsoft Flight Simulator received its first big patch overnight, but there may be some major complications for players looking to update the game to its latest version.

The patch brings the game up to version 1.7.14.0 and solves a few issues with the game crashing when you plug different peripherals or devices into your PC. Full patch notes can be seen on the game's official site.

The update also fixes issues revolving around the lengthy installation process. Anyone that’s already downloaded the game knows Microsoft’s latest sim isn’t the easiest thing in the world set up thanks to the process getting blocked by various factors as the installation progresses.

Annoyingly, though, if you have had problems installing the game the first time around, Microsoft recommends doing a clean install of the title – uninstalling the game completely before starting the whole process all over again.

Instructions on how to remove Microsoft Flight Simulator from Steam and Microsoft Store/Games Pass are given, and specific instructions for the best practices when reinstalling the game are also outlined.

Once uninstalled, you’re going to want to make sure that any files under ‘MicrosoftFlightSimulator’ on your machine are erased otherwise you may run into problems when trying to get everything back in working order.

The update itself is only 333MB in size, but that full reinstall is a whopping 127GB – so make sure you’ve got something to occupy yourself with once you hit the button and remove those files from your computer.

If you’re interested in why the whole world appears to be playing Microsoft Flight Simulator right now, be sure to check out our review.