In the high-octane world of digital battlefields where aerial dogfights and naval skirmishes are the stuff of legend, the gritty, earthbound clashes of War Thunder’s Ground Forces offer a no less thrilling theater of war. This comprehensive guide dives profound into the heart of War Thunder’s terrestrial skirmishes, offering sage wisdom on mastering the game’s Ground Forces. From understanding the various armored behemoths at your command to surviving the death from above, this guide is your all-seeing periscope into the strategies, tactics, and nuances that can elevate your ground game from fodder to feared commander.
Understanding Ground Force Vehicle Types
War Thunder’s Ground Forces are a diverse blend of steel, ranging from agile light tanks to behemoth heavy tanks, each with its role on the battlefield. Understanding these roles is paramount to mastering the ground game.
Light Tanks
The nimble scouts of the battlefield, light tanks excel in reconnaissance and fast strikes. Their speed allows them to capture key positions early in the game, providing their team with strategic advantages. However, their light armor means they won’t survive long under direct fire.
Medium Tanks
These are the jack-of-all-trades in the armored warfare of War Thunder. With a balance of mobility, armor, and firepower, medium tanks can adapt to numerous roles on the battlefield, from supporting infantry to engaging enemy tanks head-on.
Heavy Tanks
The titans of the ground forces, heavy tanks boast formidable armor and devastating firepower but suffer from sluggish mobility. They shine in breaking through enemy defenses and absorbing a tremendous amount of punishment.
Tank Destroyers
Built to do one thing—obliterate enemy armor, tank destroyers often forgo turret rotation for better armor and a more powerful gun. Their role is to support from the second line, using their powerful cannons to take down enemy vehicles from a distance.
SPAA (Self-Propelled Anti-Air)
These vehicles are armed with anti-aircraft guns and sometimes missiles, designed to protect ground forces from aerial threats. Despite their specialized role, they can be surprisingly effective against ground targets, especially when firing from the sides or rear.
Effective Use of Ground Forces
Success with ground forces in War Thunder isn’t just about picking the strongest vehicle. It’s about understanding your vehicle’s strengths and weaknesses and adapting your playstyle accordingly.
Choose Your Battles
Not every fight is worth taking. If you’re in a light tank, avoid head-on engagements with heavy tanks. Use your speed and agility to outflank and hit them where their armor is weakest.
Know Your Vehicle’s Armor Angles
Understanding the optimal armor angles can drastically increase your survivability. “Angling” your vehicle can increase the effective thickness of your armor, deflecting or absorbing incoming shots.
Upgrade Wisely
Focus on upgrades that complement your vehicle’s role and your playstyle. For tank destroyers, improving gun performance might be key, while light tanks might benefit more from mobility upgrades.
Ground Force Tactics and Strategies
The difference between victory and defeat can often come down to not just individual prowess but coordinated team tactics.
Map Knowledge is Power
Knowing the map allows you to anticipate enemy movements, choose advantageous positions, and find shortcuts for flanking maneuvers. Spend time learning the nooks, crannies, and sightlines of each battlefield.
Use the Environment to Your Advantage
Concealment can be just as important as armor. Use foliage, smoke screens, and the terrain itself to hide your movements and surprise your enemies.
Combined Arms Warfare
Coordinate with your team to mix various vehicle types for a balanced force. A well-positioned SPAA can shield your advance from aerial attacks, while medium tanks support your light tanks in capturing objectives.
Winning Ground Engagements
When metal meets metal, and the dust settles, only one will stand victorious. Mastering ground engagements requires both skill and cunning.
Aim for Weak Spots
Learn the weak points of enemy vehicles, such as turret rings, ammo storage, or engine compartments. A well-placed shot can disable or even destroy a stronger opponent.
Don’t Be Predictable
Alternate your routes, peek points, and tactics. If you’re predictable, you’re vulnerable. Keep the enemy guessing to create openings for attack.
Utilize Squad Tactics
If you’re playing with friends or in a coordinated team, use voice or text chat to organize attacks, call out targets, and support each other. A unified team is a formidable one.
Surviving Aerial Attacks as Ground Forces
The sky is not always a friendly place, but there are ways to mitigate the threat from above.
Stay Aware
Constantly monitor the skies and listen for the telltale engine roars of enemy aircraft. Awareness alone can save you from an untimely demise.
Use Cover
Whenever possible, stay near cover that can protect you from strafing runs and bombing attacks. Buildings, rock formations, and even trees can provide vital shelter.
SPAA is Your Best Friend
Stick close to your team’s anti-aircraft vehicles or, if you’re in an SPAA, be vigilant and ready to protect your teammates. A well-placed burst of flak can turn a predatory bomber into a falling wreck.
The realm of War Thunder’s Ground Forces is as unforgiving as it is rewarding, a place where heroes are forged in the crucible of combat and legends rise from the dust of the battlefield. Armed with the knowledge contained within this guide, you stand poised to carve your path to glory. Remember, the key to mastering the Ground Forces lies not in the vehicle but the warrior who commands it. The thunder rolls, and now, so do you.