War Thunder, the comprehensive vehicle combat MMO developed by Gaijin Entertainment, presents an incredibly detailed battlefield where tank warfare reigns supreme for those who favor ground combat. This game merges historical accuracy, complex mechanics, and intense action, offering an intriguing experience for enthusiasts of military history and competitive gaming alike. For newcomers and seasoned tank commanders alike, mastering the art of tank warfare in War Thunder is a journey of plan, skill, and sometimes, sheer grit. This guide dives profound into the nuances of dominating the ground battle, ensuring that every sortie could be your road to glory.

Types of Tanks#

War Thunder’s armory is a vast arsenal, showcasing tanks from the pre-World War II era to the modern battlefields with cold war and contemporary beasts. Understanding the types of tanks is the first step on the path to becoming a formidable tank commander.

Light Tanks#

Agile and stealthy, light tanks are the scouts of the battlefield. Their primary role is reconnaissance, identifying enemy positions without engaging in direct combat. Utilize their speed to flank opponents, capturing critical points and providing valuable intel to your team.

Medium Tanks#

The jack-of-all-trades, medium tanks balance firepower, mobility, and armor. They can adapt to numerous roles on the battlefield, from assaulting enemy lines to defending strategic points. Their versatility makes them a favorite among players who prefer a balanced approach.

Heavy Tanks#

Behemoths of the battlefield, heavy tanks boast formidable armor and powerful cannons. They are designed to break through enemy defenses and absorb a tremendous amount of punishment. However, their slow speed makes them susceptible to flanking from more agile opponents.

Tank Destroyers#

Specialized for eliminating armored threats, tank destroyers forego a turret for a fixed gun, offering superior firepower at the cost of flexibility. Their method involves ambushing, using terrain and concealment to their advantage, striking from afar before the enemy can close the distance.

Anti-Aircraft Tanks#

While primarily purposed for taking down aircraft, these vehicles can be surprisingly effective against ground targets, especially lightly armored ones. Their rapid-fire guns can overwhelm enemies through sheer volume, making them a threat not to be underestimated.

Armor and Penetration#

Surviving a firefight in War Thunder requires a thorough understanding of your tank’s armor and the penetration capabilities of your weapons. The game meticulously simulates ballistic mechanics, meaning every encounter can be a deadly game of angles and armor thickness.

Armor Composition#

Tanks are not uniformly armored; different sections have varying thicknesses and compositions. The frontal armor is typically the thickest, while the sides and rear are more vulnerable. Angling your tank can increase the effective thickness of your armor, making you a harder target to crack.

Penetration Mechanics#

Projectiles in War Thunder have detailed models, with factors like velocity, angle of impact, and distance affecting their ability to penetrate armor. Before engaging, know your cannon’s penetration values and the armor weak points of your adversaries to ensure your shots count.

Effective Tank Combat#

Mastering tank combat in War Thunder is not solely about having a bigger cannon; it’s about knowing when to fight, flee, or flank.

Positioning#

Always be aware of your surroundings. Use terrain features like hills, buildings, and trees to shield your tank from enemy fire. Positioning yourself effectively can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Situational Awareness#

Keep an eye on the minimap and listen for audio cues to maintain awareness of the battlefield. Knowing where your enemies (and allies) are can help you anticipate enemy movements and react accordingly.

Aiming and Firing#

Patience is key. Rushed shots often miss or fail to penetrate. Aim for weak spots like the rear, sides, or specific components like the gun barrel or tracks. A well-placed shot can immobilize an enemy tank, making it an easy target for you or your teammates.

Terrain Advantages#

War Thunder’s maps are diverse, featuring environments that can be used to gain a tactical edge. From the urban rubble of Berlin to the open fields of Kursk, knowing how to use the terrain to your advantage is crucial.

Urban Combat#

Fighting in urban areas provides numerous opportunities to ambush or flank your enemies. Use buildings for cover, ensuring that you are not exposed from multiple angles. Remember, enemies can be just around the corner.

Open Field Maneuvering#

In open terrains, use natural contours for cover and concealment. Hull down positions, where only your turret is exposed, can be particularly effective. Avoid open areas unless necessary, as they make you an easy target for tank destroyers and aircraft.

Forests and Hills#

Forests can offer concealment, allowing you to move unseen or set up ambushes. Hills provide both cover and vantage points but be wary of exposing your tank’s underside, a valuable target for enemy fire.

Tank Upgrades and Modifications#

Progressing through War Thunder’s tech tree not only unlocks new tanks but also modifications that can significantly embellish your vehicle’s performance.

Firepower Upgrades#

Upgrading your cannon, ammunition type, and reloading mechanisms can drastically improve your combat effectiveness. Experiment with different ammunition to find the best fit for your combat style.

Mobility Enhancements#

Enhancing your engine, transmission, and suspension can boost your tank’s speed and maneuverability, allowing you to reposition quickly or escape unfavorable engagements.

Armor and Survival#

Additional armor kits and crew training can increase your tank’s survivability. While not invulnerable, an upgraded tank can withstand more punishment before going down.

Crew Skills#

Don’t overlook the importance of crew skills. Investing in your crew’s targeting, reloading, and repair abilities can turn the tide of battle in your favor.

In conclusion, mastering the art of tank warfare in War Thunder is a complex journey of method, skill, and continuous learning. By understanding the types of tanks and their roles, mastering the intricacies of armor and penetration, employing effective combat techniques, utilizing terrain to your advantage, and investing in upgrades and modifications, you can become a dominant force on the battlefield. Remember, every tank commander started as a rookie; resilience and adaptability are your best allies on the road to victory. Engage with the community, learn from your defeats, and soon, you’ll find yourself leading the charge into enemy lines, a true master of tank warfare in the world of War Thunder.