I bought this first release a year or two ago for $10 but didn't really get into it. Then the Forgotten Battles, Aces Expansion Pack and Pacific Fighters add ons became available, which added more of the planes and battles we are familiar with, rather than the predominately Russian and German only planes of the first release.
The release of the combo DVD recently provided an all in one updated product (vers 4.04m) and thats what the Inspire server has been running. There were two other updates, Pe-2 = v4.05m and Il-10 = v4.06m, however the lads at KiwiSim realised that the majority didn't buy the on line updated add-ons.
The next release is once again a complete DVD update, IL2:1946 - v4.07m.
http://www.gpstore.co.nz/Games/1526189.html
I have seen several screenshots and pre-release movies, it looks pretty cool. There are 32 or so new planes and several 'what if' aircraft. It's no secret that Germany was developing jet powered craft that could have produced a different outcome if they were ever allowed into full scale battle. Here's something for ya:
The Inspire server will be updated to the latest version in December 2006. The new maps look good and the ground scenery objects are superior than the past.
I'll be buying this before FSX (I need it to continue playing it online with the guys, where I can still fly with FS9 online), and I encourage anyone also into WW2 aerial dog fighting and bombing action to join us.
Matt
