A laundry list of things to get through this week with a new developer blog from the folks at 1CGS on IL-2 Great Battles. Those updates include the latest work on the IAR80/81 with the long fuselage option and some additional changes to support the type’s unique weapons configuration. We’ve got our first shots of the Spitfire IXc (with some curious configurations on display). There’s talk about AI updates, control updates, and a bit about some flight model updates for the P-47 and P-40. Regional pricing is also now in place on Steam. Let’s get to all of it!

IAR and Spitfire IXc update

The IAR80/81 project is “half” released right now with the first half of the project giving us the short fuselage version of the airplane. The long fuselage version is now on the way too with these latest screenshots showing off that version that is coming in the next update – version 5.202.

One change coming will be a configuration where the bombs are released by the firing trigger when the bomb control system is switched on. Curious to see how that works in IL-2.

The other aircraft receiving screenshot treatment this week is the new Spitfire IXc Collector Plane. It has been confirmed that the Spitfire IXc will feature a later model of the IXc with Merlin 66 engine (not the Merlin 63 or 61). The rounded rudder section represents an earlier configuration than the Spitfire IXe present in the sim. Curiously, the aircraft pictured is technically an IXe with an E-Type wing. Looking for a little clarification on that one but it seems possible that both E and C-wing configurations will be available. Clipped wings are confirmed.

AI, controls, and flight models

The update wasn’t done just yet with a bit of discussion about some other changes.

Some updates are coming to the AI with the latest diary reporting that the AI will, in head on attacks, be more aggressive and break away later. That could lead to some more dynamic initial engagements – though we may end up seeing some more head on collisions too. A tough act to balance there.

Medium bombers on the Western Front will now fly higher in Career missions with a new altitude range of 4-4.5 km (13,000 to 15,000 feet). A new mission type where you defend a friendly airfield from air raid is being added further adding to the diversity and variety.

Input updates are coming too starting with a new search feature! Nice! Move a control axis or press the button to search for relevant bindings. HOTAS control bindings are going to get easier too, for those who have the buttons, with separate on/off, open/close pairings. That includes bomb fuses, bomb bay doors, air brakes, the Ju87 siren, canopy, propeller feathering (per engine feathering possible now by control assignment rather than pressing 1 or 2).

Finally, the developer diary notes that they are indeed working on flight model updates to the P-40 and the P-47. The P-47 appears to be first in line and may see the update come into play in this update – though they don’t sound certain of that. The P-40 will be further down the line.

Regional Steam pricing

One issue for many gamers recently have been the changes in pricing and market valuation as some currencies rise and others fall. With so much volatility in the market right now, this has affected some more than others. 1CGS are reporting that their Steam pricing is now going to become regional. How that plays out at scale remains to be seen – if you’re potentially buying from a country where this has had a benefit (or conversely has seen the prices rise) I’d love to know how that’s affecting you. Let me know in the comments.