The latest installment in the series is dedicated to the Korean War—a pivotal era that saw the first aerial clashes between legendary World War II piston-engine planes and the inaugural generation of production jet fighters.
The studio behind the acclaimed IL-2 Sturmovik flight simulation franchise has revealed comprehensive details for its upcoming project, “Korea. IL-2 Series.” This new title will feature a significantly overhauled engine, succeeding “IL-2 Sturmovik: Great Battles” as the series’ primary technical foundation.
Developers have announced that the game will feature the most expansive environment in the franchise’s history, covering over 200,000 square kilometers. The Korean Peninsula has been painstakingly reconstructed using 1950s historical maps and records, accurately reflecting period-specific coastlines and geographical features.
Players will be able to engage with the simulator through two distinct playstyles. One focuses on the thrill of flight, where players pilot iconic aircraft of the era and engage in high-stakes dogfights. Each cockpit instrument is fully interactive and provides real-time data, while air-to-air combat and targeting require the same authentic skills mastered by mid-20th-century pilots.
For those interested in a broader scope, the “Career” mode allows players to assume the role of an air regiment commander. This mode involves personnel management, mission planning, and maintaining unit logistics and combat readiness. The choice to lead from the cockpit or command from the ground remains entirely in the player’s hands.
“Korea” features a sophisticated damage model for both aircraft and ground-based targets. From heavy bombers and trains to ships and armored columns, units sustain damage based on the specific physics of an impact. Factors like projectile mass, velocity, and the exact point of contact dynamically influence vehicle behavior and its survival on the battlefield.
A dedicated inspection mode will allow enthusiasts to study the machinery outside of combat. Players can examine highly detailed models and cockpits, learn about their historical development and service history, and compare technical specifications through detailed performance and altitude charts.
Breaking new ground for the franchise, players will finally be able to leave the cockpit and walk freely around their regiment’s airbase. Characters—including pilots, military staff, and civilians—are brought to life using advanced motion-capture technology.
The project will feature comprehensive VR support via OpenXR and OpenVR. Simultaneously, the developers are emphasizing a flexible approach to accessibility: while players can opt for deep, manual control of all systems, there is no mandatory requirement to memorize complex engine-start procedures, ensuring a faster path to takeoff for those who prefer it.
While a final release date has not yet been confirmed, Early Access is slated to begin in the spring of 2026, following a major preliminary update in the winter. Pre-orders are currently available, alongside registration for the upcoming beta testing phase.
Source: iXBT.games