Hi, pseudo
The reason why I mention the following is because the digital download version typically is the fastest way to get IL-2 1946, usually by far. Digital download version is in most people's hands within hours, but the DVD version might be mailed and get to you in weeks. Some people do not have a good enough InterNet service to receive a clean copy of the sim, however. You need to weigh these factors into your decision to get the DVD or the digital download version of IL-2 1946.
If you are going to add mods to stock IL-2 Sturmovik 1946 digital download version, then you will need a special patch to be sure that all mods work. Ignore this if you intend to go with the DVD version. That patch is revealed in this topic for the patches: ( Top modders tell me that this special mod-enabling patch for the digital download version of IL-2 1946 is needed to potentially use any mod out there, established by founding modders )
(Must patch in this order, as needed by you...)
IL-2 Patch Central
viewtopic.php?f=29&t=29314
Once you get all the IL-2 patches, you should keep a clean, untouched copy of the build for the future, which is far easier to grab instead of re-downloading and re-patching everything.
When you eventually need it again, then you should simply copy it to the intended location.
* * * Never install IL-2 1946 inside of Program Files if you intend to add mods to it. * * * The shortest possible file path is the best. I have used modded IL-2 1946 for offline and online with no problems as a major folder alongside Windows, AppData, Users, and other major folders of the hard drive. (This is not necessary for most programs, however - it's for modded IL-2 1946. ) If you install IL-2 1946 into Program Files and mod it later, then you might or might not have problems. Installing outside Program Files will eliminate one potential snag for modding.
If you want to fly online, then I recommend joining a squadron and using the system which they like. Here is a long list of squadrons to get you started:
Community Generated Squadron List..........
viewtopic.php?f=107&t=24405
Here is a general guide to introduce folk to the mod packs:
IL-2 Newbie Guide
viewtopic.php?f=29&t=29314
UltraPack 3 mod pack ( fairly recent release and update to it ) can be found at the UltraPack website, as well.
Plus, we have several IL-2 1946 forums near the middle of our forum index in that section:
HSFX Forum.
Team Daidalos Forum
Free IL2 Modding Forum
HistoMod Forum
Special Aircraft Service Forum.
UltraPack Forum.
I reccommend trying at least two different systems.
All have beautiful things to try.
Fireskull