War Thunder Size 2024: The Ultimate Breakdown of File Size, Download & Immense Game Scale 🚀

Last Updated: | By PlayWarThunderGame Editors

War Thunder size comparison showing tanks, planes, and ships

When veterans and newcomers alike ask, "How big is War Thunder, really?", they're often met with vague answers. But here at PlayWarThunderGame, we've done the legwork. This isn't just about the gigabytes on your drive; it's about the sheer, staggering scale of the experience. From the download size that tests your bandwidth to the install footprint that demands SSD real estate, and the mind-boggling scope of content spanning over a decade of live service updates, we're breaking it all down with exclusive 2024 data.

💡 Key Takeaway: As of May 2024, a fresh War Thunder install on PC sits at approximately 95-105 GB, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. The true "size" encompasses over 2,000 meticulously detailed vehicles, 100+ massive maps, and a continuous pipeline of content that grows every major update.

📁 War Thunder File Size & System Storage Requirements

Let's cut to the chase—you need space, and lots of it. Gaijin's masterpiece is a behemoth, and its system requirements have evolved significantly since its initial release. We've compiled data from our own installs and community surveys to give you the most accurate picture.

PC Download & Install Size (Steam, Gaijin Store, Epic)

The base game download via official clients is compressed, typically around 70-80 GB. However, post-installation extraction and the inclusion of high-resolution textures, sound banks, and cache files balloon the final size to the 100 GB+ territory. This is non-negotiable for the full HD experience.

Pro Tip: Always ensure you have at least 120 GB of free space on your target drive (preferably an NVMe SSD) before initiating the install. This accounts for temporary files and future update patches, which can be several gigabytes each.

War Thunder Mobile Size (iOS & Android)

The mobile incarnation is a marvel of optimization. The initial download from the App Store or Google Play is about 4-5 GB. After downloading additional in-game assets (optional HD textures), the total can reach 8-12 GB. While smaller, it's still one of the most substantial mobile games on the market, reflecting its console-grade ambition.

Console Versions (PlayStation & Xbox)

On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, the install size is similar to PC, often between 90-100 GB. Older-gen consoles (PS4, Xbox One) may have slightly smaller footprints due to reduced texture quality, but still demand over 80 GB. Regular updates, tied to the shared live server ecosystem, keep this number creeping upward.

🚀 Understanding the "Scale": More Than Just Gigabytes

Discussing War Thunder size purely in storage terms is like describing the ocean by its volume—it misses the depth and diversity within. The game's true magnitude lies in its content breadth.

Vehicle Roster: An Unmatched Arsenal

With over 2,000 playable vehicles—from biplanes to jet fighters, interwar tanks to modern MBTs, and coastal boats to guided-missile destroyers—the roster is a historian's dream and a collector's challenge. Each vehicle is built from technical manuals, featuring unique damage models, ballistic physics, and engine sounds. This library is the core of the game's data footprint. For focused gameplay, see our tank combat deep dive.

Map & Environment Data

Over 100 maps span the globe, from the Eastern Front to the Vietnam jungle, each with terrain deformation, destructible buildings, and dynamic weather. These environments aren't just backdrops; they're complex gameplay spaces that add tens of gigabytes to the install. The recent "Drone Age" update alone added sprawling new urban combat zones.

Audio & Visual Assets

High-fidelity engine roars, weapon reports (recorded from real vehicles), orchestral scores, and crew voices in a dozen languages consume significant space. The optional "Movie" texture pack can add another 20-30 GB for 4K enthusiasts.

⚙️ Managing Your War Thunder Install: Optimization Guide

Running low on space? Here are expert-recommended strategies:

1. Use the In-Game Asset Cleaner

Located in the launcher settings, this tool removes obsolete files from old patches—a common source of bloat.

2. Selective Texture Installation

Don't need 4K textures for trees? The custom install option lets you skip ultra-HD assets, saving 15-20 GB.

3. Regular Cache Maintenance

Clear the game's temporary cache periodically (not to be confused with the critical "ULQ" cache).

4. Plan for Major Updates

Follow the dev blog to anticipate large updates like "New Power" or "Air Superiority," which often require 10-15 GB of free space for patching.

🎯 Insider Insight: Many players don't realize that War Thunder's size growth is directly tied to its refusal to "sunset" content. Unlike games that vault old maps, nearly every vehicle and map added since the beta days remains playable, leading to inevitable expansion.

📈 Future-Proofing: How Big Will War Thunder Get?

Based on the update trajectory analyzed from past updates, we project the total install size to approach 130-140 GB by late 2025. Factors driving this include:

  • Addition of new tech trees (e.g., modern naval units)
  • Ray-traced graphics enhancements
  • Further map expansions with higher detail
  • More immersive sound systems

Staying informed via the official developer blog is crucial for planning your storage upgrades. Also, timing your initial download during sales periods can be smart, as server loads are often balanced.

🔧 System Requirements vs. Real-World Performance

The official system requirements list a minimum of 55 GB, but that's a legacy figure. For a smooth 60 FPS at High settings in 1080p today, you need:

  • CPU: Modern 6-core processor
  • GPU: GTX 1060 / RX 580 or better
  • RAM: 16 GB DDR4
  • STORAGE: 120 GB Free on an SSD (This is critical—HDD load times are prohibitive)

The game's evolution from a niche flight sim to a combined-arms titan is reflected in these demands. Our sales guide often highlights SSD deals for this reason.

🤔 Final Verdict: Is the Size Worth It?

Absolutely. The War Thunder size is a direct consequence of its unparalleled ambition and depth. No other game offers this granularity of vehicle simulation across air, land, and sea in a single, interconnected PvP experience. The 100 GB footprint is your ticket to a living museum and a brutally realistic combat simulator.

By understanding the scale and managing your install wisely, you can enjoy this legendary thunder game without storage anxiety. Keep your eyes on the live server status for optimal download times, and we'll see you in the skies, on the ground, and at sea.

Got more questions about the game's scale? Use our search or interactive tools below! ✈️ 🐯