Microsoft Game Studios announces Flight Simulator X: Acceleration is gold, and the flight sim expansion is set to touch down in North American stores on October 23:

Expansion pack for “Flight Simulator X” franchise adds a host of new planes, missions and modes and hits store shelves Oct. 23rd

Microsoft Game Studios today announced the first expansion pack for the critically acclaimed “Flight Simulator X,” released last Fall, has gone gold and will begin hitting retailers throughout North America on Oct. 23rd.

Developed by ACES Studio, “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” adds a wealth of new content and features, allowing gamers to race against each other in amazing, highly-detailed locations around the world. Aviators are able to test their skills and heroism in many new missions while enjoying three exciting new aircrafts and the ability to share rewards, photos and videos with friends and the broader flight simulator community.

“Flight Simulator X,” which launched in October 2006, introduced gamers to a beautifully rich and realistic world offering a completely new and innovative gaming experience. Available in both standard and deluxe versions, “Flight Simulator X” allows gamers of all ages, types and skill levels opportunities to cruise more than 24,000 airports and experience first-hand what it’s like to be an aviator traveling the globe. With the addition of more than 50 missions and increased online game capabilities, “Flight Simulator X” is more than just a simulator and has proved to be the fastest selling addition to the 25-year “Flight Simulator” franchise.

“Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” will be available for the estimated retail price of $29.99 for Windows. “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration” is rated “E10+” for everyone 10 and older. “Flight Simulator X” is required to play “Flight Simulator X: Acceleration.”

For more information about “Flight Simulator X” please visit http://www.microsoft.com/games/pc/flightsimulatorx.aspx.