Wondering how vertical targeting in War Thunder works? Based on the plane you chose, its class, weight, and gun power, you will have to tweak several settings before you can successfully engage in some epic dogfights. Vertical targeting is one such essential plane gun-firing mechanism.
How War Thunder’s Vertical Targeting Mechanism Works
Vertical Targeting makes your slugs fly higher and reach the set distance without falling before hitting the crosshair mark. This results in higher accuracy. Visually, when the option is toggled on, you will see your bullets shooting a little upward than what you would normally see with the option off.
But how does it work? Vertical Targeting adjusts the upward cant (angle) of your aircraft’s guns to counter the gravity drop-offs. This allows you to fire slugs in a way that they intersect with your aircraft’s lateral plane at the distance you have set. It means that your guns will be adjusted in elevation (as opposed to the horizontal plane if you have Convergence on) to intersect the visible crosshair at the set range.
Here’s a visual demonstration of this feature:
Should I Use Vertical Targeting in War Thunder?
The answer to this question completely depends upon your playstyle, chosen plane, and your preferred form of combat.
Vertical Targeting is usually the best option for long-distance bomber plane fights, particularly with the planes that have their guns on the wings. It will adjust the vertical alignment of the gun and you will have a higher chance of hitting your long-distance targeting accurately. You won’t have to fear your slugs falling short even though they match up perfectly with your crosshair.
However, many players prefer keeping this option off. Turning off vertical targeting in War Thunder can maximize the ‘realistic’ experience of an aerial fight, as you will have to be mindful of the weight of your payload as well as the trajectory and velocity of every plane. Do this only if you want an extremely realistic experience and are willing to be challenged!
