New Player?

[Thunderbolt56]

IL2:46 is the BEST WWII sim out there...period. Also, it's one of the hardest for a relative newcomer so be advised. That is in no way meant to dissuade you from getting it, just don't expect to hop right in and fly off into the wild blue without some measure of teething pains.

Get a decent joystick (as already mentioned). CH Fighterstick + rudder pedals or an X52 Pro would be my 2 recommendations. CH is more expensive but I wouldn't personally use anything else...and I've tried them all.

Once you get the DVD (IL2:46) the only other thing you'll need it the 4.08m patch. It's pretty big, but will get you up to speed with 90% of the rest of the community.

After that, you'll want to get a server-finder program. Either Hyperlobby or Xfire will do fine. I'd also recommend getting a TrackIR. It may seem frivolous now, but it's a great piece of hardware that will last you for years and once setup is very trouble-free. Highly recommended.

Lastly, get and use TeamSpeak. It's free and a cheap headset/mic will put you in touch with many many other players that can save your bacon, help you through your IL2 growth and make things more rewarding in many different ways. Most servers have a TeamSPeak server for players playing on their IL2 servers and despite a few that can hog the channel (it happens everywhere) it will help with navigation, mission objectives, teamwork and answering any other questions you may have.

Ask questions. None are stupid and you won't regret it.