This is the X-Plane update that you’ve been waiting for. X-Plane 12.2.0 represents over twelve months of deliberate improving the cloud rendering, lighting, environmental effects and graphics performance. They strive to make X-Plane more immersive, realistic and visually stunning in every update but in this one it really all came together.

And there is a long list of all the items, they are been working on. You can read it easily here. With some very good explanation and before and after screens.

More Realistic Shadows

Shadows on the ground from direct sunlight now correctly align with cloud coverage, shape, and density.