IL-2 Sturmovik vs IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
IL-2 Sturmovik delivers a historically accurate World War II air combat experience, letting players pilot iconic Soviet, German, and Allied aircraft. The game features detailed flight physics, realistic damage modeling, and expansive battlefields that recreate the Eastern Front skies. Beyond single‑player missions, the title offers robust multiplayer dogfights and cooperative campaigns, catering to both solo enthusiasts and competitive flyers. Its deep simulation roots make it a benchmark for flight enthusiasts seeking authentic wartime aviation.
IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 expands the legendary series with 36 new aircraft, four gigantic maps, and nearly 200 new campaign missions, delivering an unparalleled historical flight experience. The anthology includes every previous IL-2 title—Forgotten Battles, Ace Expansion Pack, Pacific Fighters—and adds alternate‑history 1946 scenarios featuring advanced jets and rockets.
- Highly realistic flight and damage modeling
- Rich selection of historically accurate aircraft
- Robust multiplayer with large player counts
- Extensive modding community and tools
- Extensive aircraft roster
- Massive, detailed maps
- All previous IL-2 content included
- Robust multiplayer options
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Outdated graphics compared to modern titles
- Limited official support and updates
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- High system requirements for optimal performance
- Limited modern UI compared to newer sims
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataIL-2 Sturmovik (A) is the cheaper, classic version with solid realism; IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 (B) adds extensive new aircraft, maps, missions and larger multiplayer at a higher price.
Key differences
- •Price: A costs $49.99, B costs $59.99.
- •Content breadth: B adds 36 new planes, four large maps, and over 200 new missions, plus all prior IL-2 content.
- •Multiplayer capacity: A supports up to 32 players; B supports up to 64 and includes cooperative modes.
- •Release date: A launched in 2001, B in 2006 with updated features.
- •Developer/publisher branding: A lists Maddox Games only; B lists 1C: Maddox Games and publisher 1C-777.
Pricing & value
A is $10 cheaper ($49.99 vs $59.99) while offering core simulation features.
Content & replayability
B includes all of A's content plus 36 new aircraft, four expansive maps, and 200+ missions.
Multiplayer / co‑op
B supports up to 64 players and adds cooperative modes; A caps at 32 players.
Difficulty & accessibility
Both note a steep learning curve for newcomers.
Graphics & performance
A is described as having outdated graphics; B’s graphics quality is not specified.
Choose IL-2 Sturmovik if…
Buyers on a tighter budget who want the core WW2 flight sim without extra planes or larger multiplayer.
Choose IL-2 Sturmovik: 1946 if…
Buyers seeking the most comprehensive IL‑2 experience with extra aircraft, maps, missions, and larger multiplayer.
Common questions
Is the extra $10 for B worth it?
B adds 36 new aircraft, four large maps, 200+ missions, and doubles multiplayer capacity, which many consider added value.
Can I play multiplayer with many friends?
A supports up to 32 players; B supports up to 64 players and includes cooperative modes.
Do I need to buy both games?
B includes all previous IL‑2 content, so purchasing B alone gives you everything in A plus the new additions.