Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 recently launched on PC and Xbox Series X/S. While the game initially struggled to function on Linux-based systems and the Steam Deck due to crashes and shader errors caused by Proton compatibility issues, there’s good news for Steam Deck owners: the game is now playable. However, “playable” doesn’t mean smooth performance, as while the game is currently working, the experience may not be worth the effort.
How well does Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 run on the Steam Deck?
There were several issues with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on the Steam Deck, but they have now been addressed by the Proton development team (Valve and CodeWeavers). By using the latest Proton Experimental Bleeding Edge beta version, players can now launch and play the game.
The folks over at SteamDeckHQ have tested the game extensively on the Steam Deck and shared their findings. Here’s what they reported:
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- Graphics settings tweaks: The game launched with “low-end” settings. However, running the game on low-end settings wasn’t enough to maintain stability. They further reduced graphical details, disabling options like plants, rocks, and additional shadows.
- Anti-Aliasing and FSR 2: The default TAA anti-aliasing method was switched to FSR 2. On top of that, FSR 2 was set to Performance Mode to enhance framerate.
- Frame rates: With these adjustments, the game managed to hit around 25–30 FPS during gameplay. Initially, performance hovered around 20 FPS but improved as the game world loaded fully.
- Visual Sacrifices: SteamDeckHQ noted that setting FSR 2 to Ultra Performance mode could push frame rates higher. However, this would come at the cost of poor visuals.
One major drawback highlighted in the tests was the high power draw. SteamDeckHQ reported that the game consistently consumed 21–22W of power on the Steam Deck OLED. This significant power draw results in faster battery drain, which could create a big issue for those playing on the go.
While the game can run on the Steam Deck, the experience isn’t great. It delivers low frame rates, drains the battery quickly, and needs big graphic sacrifices. This takes away what makes the game special: its amazing visuals and realistic feel. If you really want to play Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 on the Steam Deck, the tips from SteamDeckHQ can help it run better. But the effort might not be worth it, especially since the game works much better on other devices.
On that note, if you want something portable, we’d recommend picking up a laptop for Microsoft Flight Simulator 24. Alternatively, upgrading your desktop PC with the best GPU for the game will offer the best performance.
