i beg to differ...
today we need to split installations because of the java limit. Hangars be full.
all of 1946's shader techniques have been updated since 2004/5/6. Il-2 is Bland, flat, Bump-less
MP is empty. no more 999 players that HL can hold. The Players have moved on, the squadrons have moved on.
Il-2 is edgy. It was Low-poly, essentials-only from the very beginning, when i flew CFS3 and FS2002 in parallel [only the cockpits were better]. These straight lines must be gone at some point. All Planes need a complete overhaul from scratch to be acceptable. Spinner to rudder, wingtip to wingtip.
I could go on with Lighting, dynamics in flight and scenery, streets, railroads, airplane systems, scenery elements to need a complete overhaul to bring them up to today's standards to appeal to "the people"
basically - check the positive thread for a set of reasons why i disagree.
When comparing Both platforms on the same elements, 1946 even with mods can barely provide me with an immersive, challenging, satisfying flight.
Sure it has carriers and Tons of Maps. and planes that all have the standard amount of systems. But they do not immerse me, do not challenge me as much in my flying.
Like XP... its time has come.
Where 1946 currently wins hands down is the FMB. That is one awesome, wonderful piece of hoochie woochie. Part movie Set, part Playground, part Mission builder. the new one will be a tough nut to crack i hear.