For those interested. 

Quote

Captains,

A few moments ago we have released the PMDG 777F for MSFS 2020. This fantastic new product is available right now at PMDG.com for $54.99.

Building upon our highly regarded core 777 simulation technology, the 777F combines entirely new gameplay features for hauling cargo over long and short routes using one the best cargo lifting machines currently available to the world's cargo airlines. With 30+ liveries representing cargo operations across all four corners of the globe, the PMDG 777F will provide you with a solid simulation of cargo operations and includes integration with both Navigraph navdata updating, simBrief and GSX ramp operations.

The 777F main deck cargo door is always the star of the show in cargo hauling, and we have provided you with an accurate simulation of it's operation from both the main deck door control panel, and the supernumary area control panel to include not only door operation, but selection and setting of main deck lighting to support your cargo hauling effort.

The second in four planned 777 releases, the 777F is a stand-alone product that requires no other purchase and will be independently supported and maintained for those customers who are only interested in cargo hauling operations. Our full featured Universal Flight Tablet and online documentation round out the features of the airplane simulation and she is ready to go right now at PMDG.com

Important Note: This product as released today is only compatible with MSFS2020, and is not yet compatible with MSFS2024.



Lets Talk About MSFS2024 Compatibility:
When Microsoft released MSFS2024, the ability for c++/WASM developed airplanes such as ours to be built and tested in MSFS2024 was broken. MS/Asobo are aware of this issue, and indications as of Tuesday are that the fix for this error is expected in either the next MSFS2024 update, or the one immediately following. Until MS/Asobo roll out this fix to their platform, we are unable to work within the platform, but are eagerly waiting to be cut free from this tether holding us back.

Once we are able to work within the platform, the intent is to focus first on bringing the 777-300ER and 777F into MSFS 2024, adding in many new gameplay features that are unique to 2024 during the process.

Lets Talk About MSFS2024 Upgrade Path for MSFS2020 777 Customers:
When ready, the native-built 2024 versions of our 777-300ER and 777F are intended to be free upgrades for those who already own these two products, whether they purchased from PMDG or from Microsoft Marketplace.

There is one very important asterisk that I want to point out here: This plan is based upon statements made by Microsoft that indicate to us that a $0 cost, free upgrade path will be made available for us to give MSFS2020 users access to a native-built MSFS2024 version of their 2020 purchased products. If, due to circumstances beyond PMDG's control, we find that this expectation is not accurate, has been misstated, misunderstood or is found not to be possible due to policies within the MSMP system, some minimum purchase requirement may required of customers in MS Marketplace. Under those circumstances, we intend only to require the very minimum purchase that MS will allow for such a transition.

Again, at this juncture, based upon statements from Microsoft, we anticipate a free upgrade path that will allow Marketplace customers of the 777-300ER and 777F to receive the 2024 build of these products at no-cost.

PMDG.com customers can anticipate a free upgrade path for the MSFS2024 version, when it is available.

Note: 737 and DC-6 customers interested in their upgrade path: we'll have more information for you in a few days, we hope.


PMDG 777-300ER Update to 2.00.0059:
Later this evening, we will release a micro-update to the 777-300ER to bring it up to the same build version as the 777F. Watch for an announcement here when it has been released, with additional information about the changes at that time.


Thank you everyone- we wish you all an enjoyable weekend of cargo hauling! Don't forget to send us postcards from your adventures!

 

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by Lotharen

Sounds like the 737 will have some costs associated - fine with that as long as we’re getting the full FS24 treatment. Seems reasonable since it came out 4 (really 7? NGXu) years ago - I’ve got no problem kicking in. 

Fenix doesn't charge - PMDG just drains your wallet.  Interesting business models.

5 minutes ago, MikeH99 said:

Fenix doesn't charge - PMDG just drains your wallet.  Interesting business models.

To be fair the 737 line is two years old at this point. You can't reasonably expect free updates into a simulator that wasn't even announced when these planes came out originally.

1 hour ago, Georgleboui said:

To be fair the 737 line is two years old at this point. You can't reasonably expect free updates into a simulator that wasn't even announced when these planes came out originally.

Nah! PMDG loves opening your wallet for updates. That's why I will no longer support them after 20 years. We have better developers to choose from today. 

Reminds me of the Tommy Lee Jones line in Men in Black after he saw the new technology replacing CD,s. “I guess I’m going to have to buy the White Album again”

31 minutes ago, YukonPete said:

Nah! PMDG loves opening your wallet for updates. That's why I will no longer support them after 20 years. We have better developers to choose from today. 

Fair point. Not too mention the bugs and lack of modern tech like an EFB which really ruffled their feathers regarding whether or not to include it. WASM bugs still happen, too.

There is no other developer here that.... 1) is charging upgrade fees...2) is no longer considered the "top" with planes...3) I could go on but I am flying a much better plane in 2020 that just merged with 2024 and its excellent (RJ).

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by Sonosusto

14 minutes ago, Sonosusto said:

Fair point. Not too mention the bugs and lack of modern tech like an EFB which really ruffled their feathers regarding whether or not to include it. WASM bugs still happen, too.

There is no other developer here that.... 1) is charging upgrade fees...2) is no longer considered the "top" with planes...3) I could go on but I am flying a much better plane in 2020 that just merged with 2024 and its excellent (RJ).

I purchased the RJ last night. My other two favourites are the Ifly Max8 and Fenix.

17 minutes ago, YukonPete said:

I purchased the RJ last night. My other two favourites are the Ifly Max8 and Fenix.

Now that my near falling-out is happening with PMDG (unless they can redeem themselves as a loyal customer for a long flippin time) I would like to know about this iFly. I have a few that swear its better. Ie instead of lengthy excuses, they produce results.

Just downloaded a large update for the PMDG 777-300, Going to fly it tomorrow if the Asobo servers are working. 

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by Bobsk8

14 minutes ago, Sonosusto said:

Now that my near falling-out is happening with PMDG (unless they can redeem themselves as a loyal customer for a long flippin time) I would like to know about this iFly. I have a few that swear its better. Ie instead of lengthy excuses, they produce results.

I'm curious about the iFly 737 Max as well. Is it like the Fenix where it has a program that handles the flight model or is it like PMDG and directly uses the sim. I have PMDG's 737-800 but the upgrade fee will determine if I continue to use this plane in 2024.

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by Lotharen

46 minutes ago, Lotharen said:

I'm curious about the iFly 737 Max as well. Is it like the Fenix where it has a program that handles the flight model or is it like PMDG and directly uses the sim. I have PMDG's 737-800 but the upgrade fee will determine if I continue to use this plane in 2024.

Here here. A few people I know own it the iFly and love it. Highly recommended. I simply have too many hobbies to spend more on planes I already own in any sim.

1 hour ago, Sonosusto said:

3) I could go on but I am flying a much better plane in 2020 that just merged with 2024 and its excellent (RJ).

I mean, yes it's excellent, and it's a lot of fun to fly and instantly became one of my favorites, but it does not have the systems depth of the PMDG offerings. Not that that's essential, but it is arguably "better."

3 hours ago, Bobsk8 said:

Just downloaded a large update for the PMDG 777-300, Going to fly it tomorrow if the Asobo servers are working. 

Sorry to inform you Bob but you'll get "open loading door" message warning tomorrow. They tried to unify both 773 and 77F and did a mess as usual.

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by Vitold69

6 hours ago, MikeH99 said:

Fenix doesn't charge - PMDG just drains your wallet.  Interesting business models.

The only time I've had to pay PMDG is when I got a new addon.

In fact, I got my MSFS 737 included free with my purchase of the NGXu for P3D.

Since then, I've not had to give them an additional cent for any addon I've bought from them.

When, other than for a new simulator platform, have they "drained your wallet"?

Edited December 8, 20241 yr by UrgentSiesta