SamScene3D has released New York City Times v2, an updated version of its scenery add-on for Microsoft Flight Simulator, now tailored for MSFS 2024. This new release builds on the original package with more custom buildings, refined textures, and adjustments designed to better integrate with the updated terrain and lighting system in the new simulator.
The developer says the goal with this version remains the same: improve on the base simulator’s depiction of New York City by enhancing its skyline and urban layout, particularly in areas where the default photogrammetry may fall short or appear incomplete. Even in a sim that already features detailed satellite data and 3D buildings, large cities like New York can sometimes feel inconsistent—especially when certain landmarks are missing or fail to load properly.
Version 2 of New York City Times introduces over 50 new custom buildings, bringing the total to more than 300 across Manhattan. SamScene3D highlights the inclusion of additional museums, malls, hotels, banks, towers, plazas, and other recognizable structures spread throughout lower, central, and upper Manhattan. The update also includes improved versions of the Manhattan, Brooklyn, Williamsburg, and Queensboro bridges, which continue to feature the animated cable cars introduced in the original release.
Times Square has been updated with new signage reflecting 2025, and still includes animated billboards, which contribute to a more detailed visual presentation of this iconic area. The developer also notes improved color accuracy and material updates, with more than 160 buildings using PBR and 4K textures. Night lighting has been adjusted to better reflect the updated rendering environment in MSFS 2024.
Performance was also a consideration in this update. Many objects now support different LODs, which helps reduce performance impact by dynamically adjusting model complexity based on the user’s distance from the object.
New York City Times v2 can be used with or without Bing photogrammetry enabled. This allows users who prefer to disable photogrammetry—whether due to performance concerns or personal preference—to still enjoy a detailed and recognizable New York City environment.
The scenery is available now through Contrail for $18.20. Existing owners of the 2020 version are eligible for a discounted upgrade price of $6.06 by using the code NYCT-V2 during checkout.
