It's great that you're looking to bring a personal touch to Microsoft Flight Simulator by recreating a past version of the New York City skyline with the original Twin Towers. While MSFS focuses on modern-day landmarks like the One World Trade Center, it's entirely possible to add the original World Trade Center (WTC) Twin Towers to your simulator experience with mods.
Luckily, there's a freeware option available to achieve exactly what you're after.
We have a mod that adds the original World Trade Center complex (including the Twin Towers and surrounding buildings) to the MSFS environment. This mod is free to download and will allow you to restore the historic skyline to its former glory.
You can download the mod directly from Fly Away Simulation here:
MSFS Twin Towers Mod - Original World Trade Center Complex
Once installed, you’ll see the original Twin Towers as they appeared before 2001, letting you fly over lower Manhattan and enjoy the nostalgic view of New York City from that era.
Here’s how to install the mod:
Enhancing the Experience
To further enhance the retro feel of New York, here are a few additional ideas:
- Look for other freeware mods that modify the cityscape, such as older buildings or vehicle textures that fit the era.
- Use the MSFS Developer Mode if you’re comfortable with customization, but keep in mind that this requires some familiarity with 3D modeling and terrain adjustments.
A Note on Payware
While you mentioned wanting to stick to freeware, it's worth noting that payware mods often offer extensive upgrades, especially for iconic cities like New York. That said, the Twin Towers mod available on Fly Away Simulation is a fantastic free option that doesn’t require any purchase, making it ideal for a personal project like this.
It’s clear that this is a meaningful addition for you, and it’s great that MSFS offers the flexibility to create such a customized experience. If you need more help with the installation or would like further suggestions, feel free to reach out!
Happy flying!