If you’re reading this, you’re likely curious about the types of vehicles you can choose in War Thunder. Are you tempted by enormous warships that can fire 16 cannons at once? Or perhaps you’d prefer skillful dogfights where every shot counts against enemy planes? Maybe ground battles with classic tanks excite you more? Each vehicle and battle type has its own benefits and drawbacks, and ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal taste in combat.
This guide will break down the three main vehicle types in War Thunder to help you decide.
Things to Know When Getting Started in War Thunder
Before we dive into the specifics, here are some important details applicable to all vehicle types:
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Customization Options: War Thunder offers a highly detailed customization menu. Almost everything about your vehicles can be adjusted here, making it a good idea to explore your options. A search bar is included to help you navigate this extensive section easily.
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Unlocking New Vehicles: You can unlock new vehicles by researching them using points earned from completed battles. When you start the game, one line of vehicles is automatically selected for you. If you don’t change this selection, you’ll keep receiving vehicles along that line.
- Battle Ratings: Each vehicle has a battle rating, indicating its overall strength in combat. As you progress, you’ll unlock more powerful vehicles with higher battle ratings, which will match you against players of similar capabilities. Be mindful that matchmaking pulls players from a range of +/- 1.0 around your highest battle rating vehicle; if you have a mix of vehicle ratings, your matchups could vary widely.
Tip: Try to play Assault mode often. This cooperative mode pits you against AI-controlled vehicles, providing a great chance for practice and earning Silver Lions and Research points for your vehicles. Your first match of the day in this mode will even reward you with a battle trophy.
Tanks
Tank battles or ground engagements are akin to first-person shooter games within War Thunder. They involve high-risk scenarios where a single well-placed shot can take out an opponent.
While most think of tank battles, it’s worth noting that ground battles can include more than just tanks; you might also encounter anti-aircraft vehicles and artillery.
It’s essential to understand each vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses using the Armor option found on your home screen. Some tank destroyers and artillery have robust front armor but are very vulnerable at the back. Therefore, positioning is crucial. Conversely, some tanks may have weak frontal armor, requiring you to face enemies at angles for better protection.
Tank battles can vary in pace. You’ll often spend time hiding behind cover, making quick peeks to surprise your adversaries. Remember, once an enemy hits you, you’re exposed to all other opponents.
Airplanes
Air battles demand a high level of skill and take place in a fast-paced environment. The speed of planes can leave you disoriented and isolated from teammates if you’re not vigilant.
While air combat may seem daunting for beginners, you’ll soon discover its intricacies. Each plane has specific strengths and weaknesses. For instance, dive bombers can quickly descend towards a target, drop their bombs, and climb back up, something larger bombers may struggle to do.
Unlike tanks and ships, you can’t afford to stay stationary in the air. You’ll need to think strategically about movements and your plane’s speed to avoid danger. You’ll also face various tasks, including eliminating ground and air targets, giving each match a sense of authenticity. Engaging in dogfights can feel like being in an action film.
Warning: Be aware of the G-forces that may cause your screen to darken if you pull up rapidly. This realism is present even in arcade battles to simulate the effects of pressure on a pilot.
Ships
Naval battles in War Thunder are unique; they feature both bluewater and coastal combat, requiring different tactics.
Coastal battles tend to be faster-paced, employing smaller ships equipped with machine guns and torpedoes, while bluewater battles involve larger ships with powerful cannons firing at distant targets.
Engaging in bluewater combat requires careful consideration, as your shells take longer to reach their targets, and loading times can exceed 40 seconds. Larger destroyers can withstand many hits, contributing to a slower pace for battles unless smaller, faster boats dominate the action.
Veteran players often note that naval battles can be lucrative for earning Silver Lions, the game’s currency used for purchasing vehicles and upgrades.
Tip: Since ships can take a lot of damage and you earn Silver Lions for any hits you make, naval battles can be an excellent way to accumulate in-game currency.
In summary, whether you lean towards tank battles, air clashes, or naval engagements, each has its unique challenges and excitement. The choice ultimately reflects your combat style in War Thunder.