WarBirds: World War II Combat Aviation
Get on SteamWarBirds: World War II Combat Aviation is a realistic flight simulation game set in WWII, focusing on historical events and demanding actual flying skills. The 2021 edition offers new training options, including CheckOut, CheckRide, and Fighter Pilot Academy, to help players of various skill levels get started. Join a squadron and participate in exciting Squadron Select Series events on most Sunday evenings. This game is not for arcade fans; it requires dedication to learn and master realistic flying and fighting techniques.
Mac OS
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Windows
Reviews
- A nostalgic classic that offers a realistic flight simulation experience with a variety of aircraft and missions.
- The game has a welcoming community and provides extensive offline options for skill development.
- It features enjoyable gameplay with fun challenges and a well-thought-out training system.
- The graphics and user interface are outdated, making navigation and overall experience frustrating.
- There are numerous bugs, including issues with joystick compatibility and frequent disconnections during gameplay.
- The game requires a subscription for full access after an initial free month, which some players find off-putting.
- graphics14 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have been widely criticized as outdated, with many reviewers likening them to mid-90s titles and describing them as subpar compared to modern standards. While some players appreciate the game's focus on realism and community, the overall consensus is that a graphics update is necessary to enhance the gaming experience. Additionally, the interface and controls have also been noted as difficult and not user-friendly.
“Game graphics are nice, physics of the planes are nice.”
“I'll admit that the flight model, damage model and graphics are better here.”
“Where this sim compromises on graphics it makes up for it in its large open area online combat in arenas spanning hundreds of square miles full of targets, such as airbases, towns, docks, supply depots and carrier battle groups.”
“Graphics look like mid nineties abandonware.”
“Sub par graphics (should be called Warbirds 1996), sub par gameplay - you'd have to be autistic to enjoy this - I think that explains it.”
“24 or so year old graphics can't compete with the new games here.”
- story3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game is marred by technical issues, such as a bug that grants invincibility in certain missions and persistent glitches in the mission editor, which can hinder the learning process. However, players find enjoyment in the online multiplayer experience, particularly during large coordinated events with up to 200 participants, adding a dynamic layer to the gameplay.
“The mission editor has a glitch that occurs all the time, and it takes a while to learn how it works.”
“There is a bug where you will be invincible in the instant action and free flight missions, even with the option disabled.”
- music3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with users criticizing the soundtrack as "horrible" and noting that it can become repetitive and annoying, particularly during loading sequences.
“The music in this game is incredibly catchy and stays in your head long after you stop playing.”
“The soundtrack perfectly complements the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience.”
“I love how the music sets the mood and immerses you in the game's world.”
“The soundtrack is horrible.”
“I tried loading the game again to see if I could get in a plane in single player, and the intro music looped 9 times until I tried to tab out and it decided to work.”
“Oh my god, I have that lousy music going through my head!”
- gameplay2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with some users criticizing it as subpar and in need of improvement, while others appreciate its realism and immersive experience, particularly within a mature community. Overall, the gameplay may appeal to those who prioritize these aspects over graphical quality.
“I think the game needs a graphics update, and some work on gameplay, but if realism, immersion, and a great mature community are important, then this has it in spades.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players appreciate that the game does not necessitate constant in-game purchases or excessive grinding to access competitive aircraft, making progression feel more accessible and fair.
“The grinding in this game feels endless and tedious, making it hard to enjoy the actual gameplay.”
“I find myself spending more time grinding for resources than actually playing the game, which is frustrating.”
“The amount of grinding required to progress is overwhelming and takes away from the fun.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 200 % positive mentions
- -400 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The monetization model is generally viewed positively, as players feel that it does not necessitate ongoing in-game purchases or excessive grinding to access competitive aircraft.
“The monetization model is fair and allows players to enjoy the game without feeling pressured to spend money.”
“I appreciate that the game offers plenty of free content, making it accessible for everyone.”
“It certainly does not require continual in-game purchases to upgrade and/or grind to get into a competitive aircraft.”
“The monetization system feels exploitative, pushing players to spend money to enjoy the game fully.”
“I feel like I'm being forced to pay for basic features that should be included in the game.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of the flight models is highly praised, as they are designed to be as realistic as possible, utilizing actual performance data to enhance authenticity.
“The flight models are as realistic as the development team can make them, based on actual performance data.”
“The optimization of the game allows for smooth gameplay even on lower-end systems, making it accessible to a wider audience.”
“I appreciate how the developers continuously refine the game, ensuring that performance improvements are regularly implemented.”
