War Thunder - GamerTake

Action

Massively Multiplayer

Simulation

Free To Play

Single-player

Multi-player

MMO

PvP

Online PvP

Co-op

Online Co-op

Cross-Platform Multiplayer

Steam Achievements

Full controller support

VR Supported

Steam Trading Cards

In-App Purchases

Adjustable Text Size

Camera Comfort

Color Alternatives

Custom Volume Controls

Playable without Timed Input

DualShock Controller Support

DualSense Controller Support

Steam Input API Support

Stereo Sound

Surround Sound

Remote Play on Phone

Remote Play on Tablet

War Thunder

Action

Massively Multiplayer

Simulation

Free To Play

Single-player

Multi-player

MMO

PvP

Online PvP

Co-op

Online Co-op

Cross-Platform Multiplayer

Steam Achievements

Full controller support

VR Supported

Steam Trading Cards

In-App Purchases

Adjustable Text Size

Camera Comfort

Color Alternatives

Custom Volume Controls

Playable without Timed Input

DualShock Controller Support

DualSense Controller Support

Steam Input API Support

Stereo Sound

Surround Sound

Remote Play on Phone

Remote Play on Tablet

War Thunder is the most comprehensive free-to-play, cross-platform, MMO military game dedicated to aviation, armoured vehicles, and naval craft, from the early 20th century to the most advanced modern combat units. Join now and take part in major battles on land, in the air, and at sea.

Developers: Gaijin Entertainment

Publishers: Gaijin Network Ltd

Release Date: Aug 15, 2013

Price (USD): Free

Current Players: 68k

Links: Steam Store SteamDB

Mostly Positive(72%)

Vehicle variety

Detailed combat

Satisfying gameplay

Graphics

Free to play

Long grind

Addictive loop

Realism

Vehicle modes

Pay-to-win

Unfair matchmaking

Spawn camping

Bugs and crashes

Overall, players describe War Thunder as a distinctive and often compelling military vehicle game, with varied vehicles and satisfying, detailed combat keeping many of them engaged. At the same time, the lengthy grind, costly premium progression, and uneven matchmaking are frequent sources of frustration, alongside reports of technical and map issues. The result is a pronounced love-hate response: many find the game addictive and worth trying, but recommend playing for the matches rather than chasing top-tier unlocks.

Positive Points

Players enjoy the core vehicle combat, especially the satisfying moments of landing a shot, winning a dogfight, or outplaying an opponent through positioning and aim.

The extensive selection of tanks, aircraft, ships, helicopters, nations, and eras gives military-vehicle fans many playstyles and long-term goals to explore.

Many reviewers praise the detailed vehicles, damage and penetration mechanics, graphics, and immersive feel; some also appreciate the choice between more accessible arcade modes and more demanding realistic or simulator modes.

The game is free to start, runs well on a range of hardware for some players, and can be particularly enjoyable with friends or when playing casually rather than focusing on progression.

Negative Points

Progression is repeatedly described as extremely slow and repetitive, with research, vehicle modifications, crew training, and in-game currency creating a substantial grind that worsens at higher tiers.

Many players feel premium vehicles, premium time, and expensive in-game purchases put pressure on players to spend and can create a pay-to-win advantage, especially through faster progression and stronger lineups.

Matchmaking and balance complaints are common: players report frequent uptiers, experienced opponents facing beginners, nation or vehicle bias, and frustrating battle-rating changes.

Reviewers cite spawn camping, close air support disrupting ground battles, repetitive or poorly designed maps, frustrating damage or physics behavior, and encounters they suspect involve cheating.

Some players report bugs, crashes, poor performance, connection problems, large or frequent updates, confusing menus, and difficult control setup, particularly for flight sticks or HOTAS.

Mixed Points

The addictive, high-stakes combat loop keeps many players returning for memorable victories, but others say the same cycle of losses and progression pressure causes anger, regret, and excessive time investment.

The game’s realism and detailed vehicle mechanics are major draws, although some players find the experience too complex, unforgiving, or inconsistent, and others feel particular modes or mechanics are not realistic enough.

The grind is a source of long-term goals and can feel satisfying to players who enjoy working toward new vehicles, but many consider it exhausting and believe it overshadows the fun.

The range of modes and vehicle types is a major strength, though players differ on which modes work well; some specifically find naval battles, top-tier combat, or certain realistic modes frustrating.

Common Themes

A strong love-hate reaction: players frequently praise the combat and vehicle variety while describing frustration with the time and effort needed to progress.

The endless grind and pressure to buy premium content are the most consistent concerns, especially for players aiming to reach modern vehicles or higher tiers.

Matchmaking, uptiers, and balance can make enjoyable vehicles or matches feel unfair, with new players particularly concerned about facing veterans.

Military-vehicle enthusiasts value the broad selection, detailed models, and rewarding combat moments; many recommend trying the game if those interests outweigh its progression demands.

The game can be highly addictive and emotionally intense, with reviewers often joking about losing their time, money, patience, or sanity.

Technical and design complaints include inconsistent performance, bugs or server issues, spawn camping, map design, and frustrating ground-air interactions.

Updated 11/1/2026, 12:02:36 AM UTC

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