Virga Studio Preparing Native Alpha Jet for MSFS 2024 with New Pointed-Nose Variant
The officially licensed Dassault Alpha Jet is getting a proper MSFS 2024 native build, plus a new pointed-nose 'A' variant based on the Luftwaffe and Top Aces versions.
Virga Studio's Alpha Jet made waves last year as one of the few officially licensed military trainers in MSFS. Now the developer has confirmed that a proper native MSFS 2024 version is nearly ready — along with a new variant that fans have been requesting.
The Native 2024 Build
The transition to MSFS 2024 involves a complete redesign to take advantage of the new engine architecture. The developer reports the aircraft is currently undergoing "industrial stress" tests to ensure stability for wide release.
However, they're holding back rather than shipping with known issues — specifically a few malfunctioning switches and an engine start problem affecting roughly 5% of flights. No ETA yet, but the emphasis on polish over speed is encouraging.
The Pointed-Nose 'A' Variant
The current model represents the French Air Force's 'E' version. The new addition will be the 'A' variant featuring the distinctive pointed nose associated with:
- Luftwaffe Alpha Jets (German Air Force)
- Top Aces (Canadian aggressor squadron)
Several new liveries are in production alongside the new exterior model.
Marketplace Struggles
Virga Studio has been open about difficulties getting into the official Microsoft Marketplace, describing their application as having been "postponely ignored." For now, the Alpha Jet is available through external platforms like SimMarket, and the developer notes these sales are vital for the project's survival.
It's a reminder that even quality products can struggle with the administrative side of the ecosystem.
