IL-2 Sturmovik sequel in development

European publisher 1C has teamed up with flight specialists 777 Studios to create a new entry in the IL-2 Sturmovik series.

The first product of the new team will be IL-2 Sturmovik: Battle of Stalingrad. It will feature both single- and multiplayer content and is expected in early 2014, apparently exclusively on PC, where flight combat sim fans gather most thickly.

The initial client release will be followed by additional Stalingrad content and later other theatres of war built on the same technology, suggesting an almost episodic release plan.

777 has been brought on board thanks to its award-winning efforts with 2009's Rise of Flight: The First Great Air War.

1C vice president Nikolay Baryshnikov called 777 "one of the best flight-simulation developers in the world", and said it has "proven that their attention to detail and product quality speaks volumes about their talent and dedication".

Because no 1C press release is complete without an adorable declaration, he also said he hopes the new partnership will bring about a "new era of development and spirit of enjoyment" in "the combat flight-simulation community". Bless.

1C and 777 have dubbed their joint development team 1C Game Studios; the team will be led by managers from 777. 777 staff not involved in IL-2's development will continue to support the Rise of Flight series.

Image from IL-2 Sturmovik: Cliffs of Dover.