REX Simulations, the respected developer known for weather and environmental add-ons such as Weather Force and Accuseason, has announced the impending launch of REX Atmos – a comprehensive visual enhancement utility for Microsoft Flight Simulator that promises to transform the virtual world “from the ground to the sky.”
According to REX, Atmos is designed to enhance the atmospheric rendering and overall visual fidelity of MSFS through real-time customization of weather, atmospheric effects, and environmental visuals. The company claims Atmos will allow users to tailor these aspects “like never before.”
Key features highlighted by REX include:
- Full customization of weather, atmospheric, and environmental parameters
- Real-time rendering of visual enhancements
- Compatibility with live weather and all major weather engines/presets
- A safe, non-destructive implementation
- The ability to save and share custom presets
- An easy-to-use interface
REX has released comparison screenshots showcasing the before and after effects of Atmos. The images demonstrate significant improvements to cloud definition, atmospheric coloring, lighting, and overall scene balance. Notable enhancements include the addition of Rayleigh scattering effects, corrected cloud lighting, and more realistic ozone layer representation.
Importantly, REX states that Atmos is designed to work seamlessly alongside other weather products like REX Weather Force and even Active Sky. This compatibility should allow users to combine Atmos’ visual enhancements with their preferred weather engine.
The timing of this announcement has raised some questions in the community, given the impending release of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 later this year. Addressing these concerns, REX has confirmed they intend to port Atmos to MSFS 2024 shortly after its launch. The company emphasized their commitment to supporting MSFS 2020 through 2028, in line with Microsoft’s stated plans.
While some have suggested that similar effects can be achieved using NVIDIA filters, REX contends that Atmos offers capabilities beyond what’s possible with post-processing tools. The developers hint that they have “yet to show the full extent of what REX Atmos is capable of.”
Pricing and an exact release date for REX Atmos have not yet been announced. The developer promises more information and previews will be shared soon.
