Sturmovik: how good was it really?

perhaps compare the IL-2 to the Hs129 or the Ju87 to be able to have a closer mission comparison

You can also compile a mission profile of Allied aircraft like the P-47D and Typhoon that engaged in dedicated ground attack and close air support missions...these aircraft delivered a brutal blow to Axis ground elements but also suffered from wicked defensive fire in circumstances similar to the Eastern front.

The P-47D ground attack elements had to deal with flak, small arms fire, ground strikes, power/telegraph wires, treetops and the occasional bounce from Luftwaffe units

There are subtle but noteworthy differences between the way the Ju87 was used and the IL-2. though to be fair, the exigencies of the battle often called on both to do different things.

The Ju87 was an interdiction machine, used mostly to attack targets as they moved or manouvered. Under ideal conditions, the IL-2 was a direct support weapon, design to hit just when the lads were hitting the assault. Give the attack that much more oomph. Not the best way to minimise air losses, but gave the groiund assault the best chances of success. The German method was beter, because it meant the ground forces were often stuck and helpless whilst the Germans had their way with them. And encirclement, not firepower, wass the way to rack up big hauls of prisoners and casualties