Been playing IL-2 since the first beta release.
Somewhere around 1999-2000
This is the best flight sim with realistic flight charactistics. You will need a HOTOS flight system to fully enjoy this sim with rudder pedals or with the rudder on the throttle such as the Saitek X45 system or never. Practice, practice, practice off line.
Get Hyperlobby and Teamspeak. It is a must. Join a squad.