This game whether installed as standalone or an upgrade to IL-2 FB is awesome in anyone's books. The addition of folding wings, opening canopies and the landing hook on some carrier-born planes really adds to the depth of the game.
With this game you can partake in some of the most impressive battles of the pacific theatre including Midway and Pearl Harbour.
The only downside i've found is unless you own a very high end video card like the GF 6800 you can kiss those pretty water effects goodby. However overall this doesn't effect the gameplay or the appeal of the game, it's still well worth buying in my books.