Today we’re sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the Egyptian battlefield taking shape in Veterans: Napoleonic Wars, our real-time tactics wargame set in the Napoleonic era. Our new Steam post covers the desert environment, a brand-new campaign mechanic, and the forces players will face on the sands.
In the Egyptian setting, the environment itself becomes a tactical factor. Dunes slow down unit movement and force players to plan their approach routes carefully, while a shimmering heat haze – implemented as a post-processing effect – brings the scorching desert atmosphere to every battle.
The heat, however, is more than a visual effect. We’re introducing a heat fatigue mechanic to the campaign: units accumulate fatigue as they take part in missions, and exhausted soldiers become less effective in battle. Players can restore their troops by rotating units into the reserve or by issuing increased water rations – turning water into a strategic resource that is earned in battle, purchased with reputation or money, or gained by completing side objectives. Camel-mounted units are immune to the heat, a natural advantage of a mount born for the desert.
We’re also introducing two new factions. The Mamluks field a cavalry-centered army in three weights – light, regular, and heavy horsemen – supported by Fellahin peasant infantry, camel riders, and artillery. The Ottoman Empire brings a more structured force, with infantry ranging from Arnaut irregulars through regular Nizam troops to the famed Janissaries, alongside Deli light horsemen, Sipahi cavalry, artillery, and supply units.
Among the highlights are our dromedary camel units: each camel carries a two-man crew, with one soldier controlling the mount while the other fires – and both fighting in melee. Functionally filling the role of cavalry, these units feature unique animations and a range of visual styles, from familiar French uniforms to variants incorporating elements of traditional desert clothing.
On the technical side, we’ve shared our optimization-first approach: the battlefield is built entirely from low-poly objects, with high-detail models sculpted in ZBrush and baked into normal map textures – keeping in-game assets lightweight while preserving a rich, detailed look.
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About Veterans: Napoleonic Wars
Experience the ultimate Napoleonic Wars Wargame where every volley matters. Command history and turn the tides of war in this immersive Real-Time Strategy experience. Quick decisions and keen tactical formations are the only things that stand between your troops and victory.