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Editors’ Review
IL-2 Sturmovik is a combat flight simulator that delivers historically accurate aerial battles, focusing on realism. It features over 100 meticulously recreated aircraft from World War I and II, each designed with authentic physics and detailed cockpits. It has single-player campaigns, multiplayer dogfights, and customizable missions, catering to a range of playstyles.
IL-2 Sturmovik provides a rich battlefield environment that spans major historical events from 1916 to 1945. Its vast maps are based on real locations, with dynamic weather, day-night cycles, and adjustable difficulty settings. While the game’s complexity provides a realistic simulation, it also presents a steep learning curve.
Realistic flight challenge
IL-2 Sturmovik uses advanced physics to simulate realistic flight dynamics, giving each aircraft unique handling characteristics. Damage modeling affects the plane’s performance, influencing combat strategies. Although this realism enhances the simulation, it can be challenging for newcomers due to the complex controls. The controls and gameplay require considerable practice to become proficient. This demands precision and practice, which can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with flight simulators.
The game’s maps are based on historical locations, featuring dynamic weather and time-of-day cycles that impact visibility and flight performance. These elements create challenging combat scenarios that require strategic thinking. However, the detailed graphics and expansive maps come with high system requirements, which may cause performance issues on lower-end hardware. This can impact gameplay fluidity, especially in intense battles.
Multiplayer modes include team battles, dogfights, and cooperative missions with multi-crew support, allowing players to operate different roles within the same vehicle. This fosters teamwork and coordination but also requires effective communication. Dedicated servers provide stable and competitive online gameplay. The customizable difficulty settings cater to casual players and simulation veterans, for an adaptable yet challenging multiplayer gameplay.
Pros
- Realistic flight physics and damage modeling
- Historically accurate maps and aircraft
- Dynamic weather and time-of-day effects
- Multi-crew support in multiplayer modes
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High system requirements for optimal performance
Bottom Line
A full battlefield
IL-2 Sturmovik provides a highly realistic and historically accurate flight simulation experience. Its complex flight mechanics, detailed damage modeling, and dynamic environments create an authentic combat setting. The extensive selection of aircraft, historical campaigns, and multiplayer modes offers diverse gameplay options. However, the steep learning curve and demanding system requirements may deter casual players. The combination of historical campaigns, mission customization, and multiplayer modes provides a full battlefield simulation.
What’s new in version 5.506
- Added new payware historical campaign
- Fixed the issue of lack of ammunition in some combinations of prohibited and allowed modifications in Pilot's Career mode
- Engine modification with increased engine time in emergency mode is available since 1942
- AllowSpectators option for a dedicated server has been split into two independent
- Added a single mission scenario for the Spitfire Mk. IXc
- Updated the campaigns Gestapo Hunters (1st mission), Hell Hawks over the Bulge (16th mission) and Lightning Strikes (all missions)
- Reduced the difficulty level in the 11th mission of the Ice Ring campaign
- Added Spanish translation of the “Gestapo Hunters” campaign thanks to EN69_Cananas
- Added new patrol mission subtype Frontline Patrol in WWII Career mode
- Added new patrol mission subtype Bomber area patrol in WWII Career mode
- Added new patrol mission subtype Top cover in USSR and Allies Career mode
- Fixed an error when a train with anti-aircraft flatcars did not activate in Career mode
- Fixed an issue with transport planes flying into mountains in transport interception missions in Career mode
- Gleaves class destroyers main guns' ammunition has been corrected according to historical sources: 330 HE + 30 AP rounds per gun
- Fixed LCI ship damage model (it was nearly impossible to destroy)
Used IL-2 Sturmovik for Windows? Share your experience and help other users.
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