I think threads like these have the potential danger to repeat past community mistake. "I hope they do this, I hope they do that"...turns into "I expected this, I expected that" when the sequel comes out. Then when it doesn't materialize...which it won't, then there is disappointment. Fact is, this team still needs to prove to me they can do the job. The bar for me is very low (actually, that's a very bad choice of words, the bar is very high. But I think you understand my point!). Start with simply doing everything the mod 1946 game does with better graphics and excellent performance as the current goal. Why that game instead of warthunder or whatever? Because that is your main competitor 1C! That's it. Very realistic. Very obtainable, I think? Then add in the complexities, one step at a time. The improved damage model, engine managements...etc. Step by step. Each step tested and made bullet proof and released for consumer use before taking another step. This is the path to success I think. Why? Because this is how the modded 1946 game evolved successfully. It's just a matter of turning that evolution into a commercial enterprise. Partner with the modders with the SDK for some things. Use the community to get new gameplay ideas...but do this methodically. Know your limits and capabilities and communicate those to the community for feedback. Maybe they have another way to get the same or similar result?
I guess I'm really talking to Luthier here.
edit:
actually the bar is very high!