A few weeks ago, I responded to a player asking how to earn Silver Lions. I suggested an approach based on my own experience, and the comment got good engagement. You can find it here: Link to the comment
Recently, content creators like Spookston and TheCodMineMan have been analyzing War Thunder’s state; monetization, new player experience, game design priorities… Their videos highlight systemic issues. But they also made me realize: while systemic changes take time, there are things players can do right now to improve their own experience.
This is the first in a series of topics and suggestions I’ll be posting about those issues. Starting with this one: grind strategy.
The Real Answer to “How Do I Make SL?”
I see the same question repeatedly followed by advice like “Play X vehicle” or “Grind only Y.” People take that advice, hate the vehicle, and quit.
The actual answer? Stop chasing meta. I have 21.6M Silver coins without premium time. Not because of specific vehicles, but because of how I approached the grind.
The Principle
The grind isn’t about which tank you play. It’s about consistency and synergy with a vehicle. You make SL through kills, assists, and caps. If you hate the vehicle, you won’t perform well in it.
How to Actually Grind
Step 1: Pick 2-3 Vehicles at Your Current BR
Not meta picks. Vehicles you like or don’t know much about. This is important.
Why 2-3? So you’re not grinding one specific line and getting fatigued. Variety keeps it interesting.
Step 2: Play Them Repeatedly Until You Understand Them
This takes time. 20-30 matches minimum per vehicle. You need to:
- Learn the weak points enemies have
- Know your vehicle’s strengths and exploit them
- Know your vehicle’s limitations and avoid them
- Understand map positioning for that vehicle
- Build muscle memory
Step 3: Stop Treating Wins as Mandatory
Here’s the dirty secret: SL comes from performance, not wins. A loss where you get 3 kills is more profitable than a win where you die immediately.
Focus on: kills, assists, capturing objectives. These generate consistent SL regardless of match outcome.
Step 4: Diversify Your Lineup
Don’t rely on a single premium tanks or aricrafts. Keep 2+ vehicles at the same BR. Rotation prevents crew fatigue and keeps you sharp and knowledgeable.
Step 5: Wait for Sales
Premium vehicles and talismans go on sale. Don’t buy at full price. A $40 tank on 50% sale is $20. Patience compounds.
What I’ve Learned
I discovered this method years ago because I refused to grind vehicles I didn’t enjoy. I played vehicles with history and character.
The result? 21.6M SL accumulated, no premium account, and I still enjoy the game because I’m not forcing myself to play meta vehicles I know don’t match my playstyle.
The Real Issue
Gaijin’s monetization wants you stressed about the grind. That stress drives premium purchases. The way around it isn’t premium time but rejecting the stress and finding your own rhythm and playstyle.
Play what you enjoy. Get good at it. SL follows naturally