How to Install Microsoft Flight Simulator on Xbox One Instead of Cloud Gaming?

I understand your eagerness to get Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) running directly on your Xbox One. Let me shed some light on why you're seeing only the cloud gaming option and how that affects installation on your console.

First and foremost, Microsoft Flight Simulator is a highly demanding title that was originally designed for high-end PCs and later optimized for the newer generation of consoles, specifically the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. These consoles possess the necessary hardware capabilities to run MSFS natively, delivering the rich and immersive flight simulation experience that the game is known for.

Unfortunately, the Xbox One, while a fantastic console in its time, doesn't meet the minimum hardware requirements to run MSFS directly. This is why when you access the Microsoft Store on your Xbox One, you only see the Cloud Gaming option for MSFS.

Here's what's happening:

• Hardware Limitations: The Xbox One's hardware, including its CPU, GPU, and memory, isn't sufficient to handle MSFS's complex simulations and detailed graphics.
• Cloud Gaming Availability: Microsoft has made MSFS available on Xbox One through Xbox Cloud Gaming, which streams the game from Microsoft's servers to your console over the internet.
• No Direct Installation: Since the Xbox One can't run the game locally, there's no option to install MSFS directly onto the console's hard drive.

So, what does this mean for you?

You can still enjoy MSFS on your Xbox One through cloud gaming. Here's how:

1. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Subscription: Ensure you have an active subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which includes access to Xbox Cloud Gaming.
2. Stable Internet Connection: A high-speed and stable internet connection is crucial for smooth gameplay via cloud streaming. Microsoft recommends at least a 10 Mbps connection, but higher speeds will provide a better experience.
3. Launching MSFS via Cloud Gaming: Navigate to MSFS in the Microsoft Store on your Xbox One and select the cloud gaming option to start streaming the game.

A few important considerations:

• Latency and Performance: Streaming games can introduce latency. Your gameplay experience may vary depending on your internet connection quality.
• Data Usage: Streaming games consumes significant data. Be mindful if you have a data cap with your internet service provider.
• Controller Compatibility: Use your standard Xbox One controller, which is fully compatible with cloud gaming.

Alternative Options:

If you're looking for the best experience with MSFS, consider upgrading to an Xbox Series X or Series S. These consoles allow you to install and run the game natively, offering better graphics, smoother performance, and full offline capabilities.

In summary: Due to hardware limitations, you cannot install Microsoft Flight Simulator directly onto your Xbox One. The game is accessible on your console only through Xbox Cloud Gaming, which streams the game over the internet. To install and play MSFS natively, an upgrade to an Xbox Series X|S would be necessary.

Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further assistance. Happy flying!