World of Planes

Something on the horizon that may be of interest. Gameplay video at this early stage doesn't hold a candle to CoD but if they can improve on this early release could be worth while.

World of Planes

I think this is an old video for the game that is now called War Thunder. I've actually played the beta and it's not that great. The graphics are pretty, but the maps are tiny (think the training island we use) and the damage model is very simple.

After playing a simulator like Cliffs of Dover, I don't think you'd find it very satisfying as a combat sim.

The big barrier for these games is 'people don't want to have to do too much' but when you get people who do like managing engine settings and gun sights and everything, that barrier is broken and the rewards are laid bare. Going backward is tough after that.

It's something I worry about for the next IL-2 game with 777 studios. They need to make it profitable so they need to make it appeal to the less sim oriented folks, but by doing so the game loses its appeal to those of us who enjoy the 'hardcore' simulator aspects. For example, the aircraft in the next IL-2 game will not have a complex startup procedure. You'll push 'i' for ignition and it will start. Not a huge thing, but an example of something that I actually enjoy being stripped out of the game because it makes it easier for non-sim people.

If you have a PS3 go out and rent Birds of Steel. This should give you an idea of what to expect. It improved on Birds of Prey in every way except multiplayer. The lack dogfight and team dogfight modes was a bit shocking.