War Thunder’s 14-year evolution: Planes, tanks, choppers, and infantry

Emma James 09/18/2026

From Planes and Ponies to Frontlines: How War Thunder Evolved into a Modern FPS Battleground

For over a decade, War Thunder has been a titan in the simulation warfare genre, offering players the thrill of commanding everything from fighter planes and historic cavalry to heavy tanks and helicopters. It was a sprawling, satisfying world built on the foundation of vehicular combat, a history rich with aerial dogfights and armored clashes.

But the demands of modern gaming, and the desire for deeper, more visceral tactical engagement, always push boundaries. As the simulation evolved, so too did the player base’s expectation for true, frontline action. The next logical step in the evolution of the War Thunder universe was not just adding new vehicles, but fundamentally changing the way players engaged with the conflict.

This evolution culminated in the exciting addition of infantry First-Person Shooter (FPS) gameplay. This massive shift represented a significant pivot, transforming the game from a focus on large-scale vehicle maneuvering to an intensely tactical experience centered on ground combat and close-quarters fighting.

The journey to this point was not instantaneous; it was a complex undertaking requiring substantial development effort. Understanding why this change occurred requires looking back at the creative team’s vision and the technical challenges they overcame over those fourteen years of service.

The decision to introduce infantry FPS gameplay was rooted in a desire to broaden the scope of warfare within the game. It sought to move beyond the traditional focus on heavy armor and aerial dominance, inviting players into the gritty reality of ground combat where every meter counts.

Implementing true infantry mechanics—managing cover, positioning, and tactical movement—into an already complex simulation environment posed unique development hurdles. It required integrating sophisticated movement systems and combat mechanics that meshed seamlessly with the established vehicle physics and large maps.

The result is a game that now offers a rich tapestry of conflict. Players can still engage in spectacular air and ground battles, but they also have the opportunity to engage in the detailed, intense scenarios of frontline infantry fighting, adding a fresh dimension to the overall experience.

This transformation ensures that War Thunder remains a dynamic and evolving platform, continually adapting to provide fresh, engaging gameplay that keeps the spirit of historical warfare alive while embracing the demands of modern tactical gaming.