Strategy and Wargaming

headquarters-world-war-iiIt’s been one year since the release of Headquarters: World War II, and to celebrate this milestone, we are excited to launch the Anniversary Update, packed with new content, improvements, and bug fixes.

New Content

  • A new music track “Hero” has been added to the playlist, free for everyone.
  • Six beloved campaign maps have been converted for use in Skirmish and Multiplayer modes, offering even more ways to enjoy tactical battles:

  • Allied Invasion
  • The Retreat to Caen
  • Operation Aubery
  • The Battle for Hill 112
  • The Falaise Pocket: The Trap
  • The Falaise Pocket: The Breakout
  • Improvements

    Significant upgrades to the camera system and settings have been made:

  • A Field of View (FOV) slider is now available in the Video Settings menu (previously limited to Photo Mode only)
  • The Free Camera Mode has been reworked for easier access and smoother transitions:

  • Now you no longer need to hold the Middle Mouse Button (MMB or Mouse Wheel) to stay in Free Camera Mode. You can enter the Free Camera Mode by pressing the MMB, and then exit the Free Camera Mode by either pressing the MMB again, or by scrolling the Mouse wheel.
  • Now, when you are in the Free Camera mode, you can see a notification “Free Camera ON” below the End Turn button.
  • Now, when you exit the Free Camera mode, the camera moves smoothly to its Regular Camera angle (instead of an instant jump). So, you can now better understand what is going on.
  • Free Camera Mode is now available on all Zoom levels of the Regular Camera. (Before it was unavailable at the 4 highest Zoom levels)
  • Fixes

  • Fixed a common crash caused by eliminating a demoralized (fleeing) unit.
  • Resolved an issue in the Ardennes DLC (Map 8 of the German campaign) where incorrect text and voice lines were triggered after a loss.
  • Find out more about Headquarters: World War II at the games official website or via Steam.

    commandos-originsIt’s time to move out, soldiers. Commandos: Origins has been deployed! The latest installment in the legendary real-time stealth tactics series is available now with Xbox Game Pass for console and PC, and on Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. After years of hard work, dedication, and invaluable feedback from the community, the elite unit has returned to tell its origin story.

    Commandos: Origins continues the legacy of the legendary real-time stealth tactics series. Step into the boots of the original Commandos squad, a group of highly skilled soldiers forged in the heat of battle during World War II. Thomas “the Sapper” Hancock is entrusted by the top military brass to assemble a team of fearless soldiers, the Commandos. In 14 missions, the game delves into their early engagements, highlighting the challenges they faced and the bond they formed as an elite fighting force. With tactical gameplay and strategic decisions, players guide the Commandos through perilous operations, each one shaping the foundation of what would become one of the most iconic military units in history. Prepare for a deep dive into the origins of a legendary squad.

    Watch the Commandos: Origins Release Trailer HERE.

    Features:

  • Challenging Real Time Tactical Stealth Gameplay: Make the best use of your Commandos’ unique abilities, infiltrate enemy facilities, and hit them where it hurts most before disappearing into the shadows.
  • An extraordinary team: Featuring 6 infamous characters, each with their own storied history, banding together to form an extraordinary fighting force – the Commandos: Take control over Jack O’Hara “the Green Beret”, Thomas “the Sapper” Hancock, Francis T. “the Sniper” Woolridge, Samuel “the Driver” Brooklyn, James “the Marine” Blackwood, and Rene “the Spy” Duchamp and lead them to success.
  • Many paths to victory: The detailed, varied, and interactive environments offer multiple approaches to reach your goal. Sneak, climb, drive in various vehicles, or hide and creep your way to mission success!
  • On your mark: A modern user experience with precise and intuitive controls enables you to control the commandos with expert precision. Coordinate complex actions simultaneously to overcome heavily fortified targets.
  • Fight on all fronts: Play through more than 10 missions in historically authentic WWII environments, spanning from the barren Arctic to the African desert, with a range of core and voluntary objectives that will require your full tactical expertise.
  • There is no I in team: Take on missions with a friend in the 2-player cooperative multiplayer mode, either online or via local split-screen.
  • The Windows edition is now available on the Epic Games Store and Steam as a Standard or a Deluxe Edition.

    armored-brigade-iiArmored Brigade II has released on Steam!

    Since our Matrix release in November, we have been very busy improving and enhancing Armored Brigade II. Finland received some major attention with the addition of new 3-D models of the StuG III, Charioteer, Comet, and XA-180. We have also added unique West German infantry formations like Gebirgsjägers, Fallschirmjägers, Aufklärungstruppes, and Pionieres.

    With the addition of FXAA and night-vision effects, Armored Brigade II is also looking better than ever.

    Major Update

    In addition, we also have a major update going live today. V1.585 brings you two entirely new linear campaigns designed by the devs – Western Guard and Midsummer Inferno.

    New Finnish formations have also been added with full TO&E tables for Finnish infantry, Jäger, Border Jäger, and Security infantry formations.

    View the v1.585 Changelog HERE.

    Watch the Armored Brigade II Steam Launch Trailer HERE.

    This week Armored Brigade II will have a 10% launch discount on Steam.

    Building on the success of its acclaimed predecessor, Armored Brigade II elevates the wargaming experience by skillfully blending accessibility with tactical depthall within a new, more immersive 3D graphic landscape. This finely-tuned balance makes it an ideal choice for both newcomers and veterans of military wargames. Engage in a simulator that offers both pausable real-time and turn-based gameplay, where every decision counts. Authentic, detailed gameplay captivates players of all levels, immersing them in a world where strategy and realism converge.

    scramble-battle-of-britainEpisode 1 – Heroes in the Skies: the Pilots of the Battle of Britain

    A Lens On is a documentary-style editorial series that uses our games to explore historical events, featuring interviews and insights.

    In this first season, we draw upon Scramble: Battle of Britain to delve into World War II.

    Get ready to dive deep into this legendary conflict, uncovering the heroic pilots, cutting-edge tactics, and game-changing aircraft that shaped the future of aerial warfare.

    In the first episode, the main focus will be on the amazing pilots that took part in the battle.

    The Battle of Britain was a crucial fight for air superiority over southern England and the Channel, preventing a Nazi invasion.

    Elite fighter pilots, known as aces – those who shot down at least five enemy aircraft – played a decisive role, with figures like Douglas Bader and Eric Lock leading the charge.

    The difficulties of this battle tested both the physical and mental endurance of young pilots. However, despite making up less than 10% of pilots, their impact was immense.

    Featuring expert insights from historians Victoria Taylor and Paul Beaver, alongside exclusive commentary from the game’s Lead Developer Jon Coughlin, this series reveals the strategy, innovation, and sheer courage that defined the battle.

    A special thanks to the RAF Museum in Biggin Hill (UK) and to the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar for the opportunity to conduct our interviews.

    Watch A Lens On: Battle of Britain – Episode 1 HERE.

    For more information about Scramble: Battle of Britain, visit the games official website or on the games Steam page.

    broken-arrowSlitherine has released a Dev Blog announcing the Special Op Forces in the upcoming RTS game Broken Arrow, due to be released in June 2025. You can watch the Broken Arrow – Special Forces Trailer HERE. Read the entire Dev Blog featuring many new screens from the game HERE.

    The Special Operations Forces distinguish themselves from the regular military units by their training to accomplish raids on high value targets, often located behind enemy lines, rather than frontally attacking the enemy forces.

    The success of these operations relies on 3 main factors: speed, stealth and a high level of support proportionally to the number of soldiers involved.
    And in Broken Arrow, this army specialization is the embodiment of these principles:

    Hard hitting infantry coming from the various Special forces groups and the 75th Ranger regiment, equipped with the latest weapons, airdropped or transported by fast vehicles and helicopters from the 160th SOAR (special operations aviation regiment), and supported by stealth drones and planes.

    For more game information please visit the games website or its official Steam page.

    scramble-battle-of-britainScramble: Battle of Britain is a tactical dogfighting game that thrusts players into the High-Octane chaos of the 1940 summer skies. Set in a dynamic 3D airspace, this simultaneous-turn-based game embraces the intricate details of aerodynamics and physics-based simulation unique to the piloting experience while minimizing time and reflex demands.

    As an Early Access title it has already almost positive reviews (93% of rating on Steam). After the Squadron Leader update and the Hurricane update, players can now enjoy a random-matches 1vs1 Multiplayer feature, which marks a relevant milestone in Scramble Early Access flight.

    Scramble: Battle of Britain introduces a highly innovative gameplay system, and Slitherine believes that it will benefit massively from player feedback. This approach will allow the developers to refine the game through continuous iteration and upgrades, ensuring we deliver a truly engaging and polished experience for the full release.

    To keep track of every update and change, both minor and major, a new thread has been opened in the Steam Discussions for players and interested individuals to follow the game’s progress.

    Visit the games Steam page for more game information.

    victory-at-sea-atlanticVictory At Sea Atlantic, the large scale, sandbox RTS naval strategy game from Evil Twin Artworks, has launched a major new update, bringing long-awaited modding support to the game. This update marks the final step in implementing community-driven feedback in Early Access, and it comes alongside several significant gameplay improvements, bug fixes, and visual upgrades designed to further enhance the player experience.

    Modding Support: A New Era of Customization

    In response to the demand from its dedicated player base, Victory At Sea Atlantic now includes a fully integrated MOD system, allowing players to customize and expand the game in exciting new ways. Whether they want to tweak core mechanics, add new ships, the new system provides the tools to make these ideas a reality. The developer is eager to see what the community will create and share with others in the coming months.

    We’re thrilled to offer this new feature, as it opens up endless possibilities for our community to bring their creative visions to life,” said James Carroll, Director of Evil Twin Artworks. “This update is the culmination of feedback from players who wanted more control over their gameplay experience. We can’t wait to see the impact the MOD system will have!

    Gameplay Enhancements and Quality of Life Improvements

    In addition to modding support, the update includes several key gameplay changes designed to enhance tactical depth and ease of play:

  • Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) bombers can now be housed in Level 1 airfields, improving fleet versatility.
  • Submersibles launching torpedoes are now 100% detectable, adding a new layer of strategic consideration for players.
  • Several new on-screen features have been added, including a compass, a weather report, and a range indicator in the firing crosshair for more intuitive gameplay.
  • Fleet AI has been improved to avoid hostile ports more effectively, offering a more challenging and immersive experience.
  • Players can now see repair times for damaged ship subsystems, with adjusted repair rates for better balance and gameplay pacing.
  • Airborne flights may now be scrapped without returning resources, further emphasizing resource management.
  • Bug Fixes and Visual Enhancements

    The update also addresses numerous bug fixes, ensuring a smoother experience for players:

  • Fixed issues with terrain loading when raiding ports without landing craft.
  • HMS Queen Elizabeth now spawns correctly in new campaigns.
  • Resolved an issue where the tutorial would occasionally freeze during the basic campaign tutorial.
  • Prevented new spotter aircraft from being mistakenly added to ships with ASW bomber payloads.
  • Visually, the game has received several enhancements including the addition of waves around shorelines during combat and other little details, adding to the overall immersion.

    Find out more about Victory At Sea Atlantic on Steam.

    strategic-command-wwii-war-in-the-pacific-rise-and-fall-of-an-empireMatrix Games announced today the first DLC for Strategic Command WWII – War in the Pacific: Rise and Fall of an Empire. This expansion explores Japan’s turbulent journey through World War II, featuring six meticulously crafted campaigns spanning from 1937 to 1946.

    Relive key historical moments, from the opening shots at the Marco Polo Bridge to the desperate final battles for Japan’s home islands. With expanded maps, deeper strategic choices, and new historical leaders, Rise and Fall of an Empire will challenge even the most seasoned commanders.

    Want to be among the first to play? Join the beta and share your thoughts, your insights are invaluable.

    scramble-battle-of-britainThe Battle of Britain was a defining moment of World War II, marking the first major military campaign fought entirely in the air. It was a clash of strategy, skill, and relentless courage, where the Royal Air Force stood against the might of the Luftwaffe in a fight for control of Britain’s skies.

    A number of remarkable pilots made history during this period, pioneering new dogfighting tactics and reshaping the future of aerial warfare. Their bravery and innovation not only influenced military strategy but also left a lasting impact on society.

    Our new series A Lens On: Battle of Britain brings these incredible stories to life, featuring expert insights, archival footage, and in-depth discussions on the aircraft, tactics, and legendary aces that defined the battle.

    A special thank you to historians Victoria Taylor, Paul Beaver, and the game’s Lead Developer Jon Coughlin for their invaluable contributions to the series.

    Watch the Trailer HERE.

    The first episode of the series premieres on March 31st. Stay tuned for an inside look at the untold stories that inspired Scramble: Battle of Britain.

    Visit the games official website for game information, or via Steam.

    crusader-kings-3For centuries, the nomadic peoples of the Eurasian steppe have crossed the great grasslands in search of fertile pastures and rich neighbors to raid. But a golden age is imminent, as talented warlords work to build political alliances that will transform fractured clans into a strong united power. Master the horse and bow while navigating tricky clan politics in Khans of the Steppe, a new core expansion for Crusader Kings III and the first major component of Crusader Kings III: Chapter IV.

    Crusader Kings III: Khans of the Steppe adds a horde of new play styles, including a new government form, as well as tons of historical flavor to Paradox Interactive’s best-selling medieval strategy role-playing experience. The semi-arid grasslands that stretch across the Eurasian landmass were home to a mobile culture centered on the wealth of the livestock herds and defended by fierce mounted warriors. Can you unite the clans of the steppe, claim the title of Great Khan and be the terror of the settled kingdoms around you?

    Highlights of Crusader Kings III: Khans of the Steppe include:

  • Nomadic Government: Embrace a new way to rule. Nomadic Governments revolve around the lifeblood of your people; your Herd. Govern your realm through migration, keeping your population mobile and resilient. Increase your Dominance and bind your subjects to your will by ensuring their Obedience.
  • The Steppe Region: Experience the challenges of life on the Great Steppe. The Steppe Season system changes the fertility of its lands over time, forcing you to adapt and migrate. Seek greener pastures, claim new territories, and dominate this vast and untamed region.
  • Tributaries System: Forge alliances and secure resources with a new type of subject relationship. Tributaries offer a more flexible alternative to vassalage, granting unique benefits for overlords and subjects while allowing for independence and adaptability.
  • Become the Scourge of God: Take on the mantle of the Great Khan and unite the Steppe under your iron rule. Lead devastating conquests across the known world, crushing empires beneath your banner as you fulfill the prophecy of the “Scourge of God.”
  • Mongolian Flavor: Dive deep into the traditions and culture of the Mongols. Begin your journey with a new Bookmark as Temüjin, the young and ambitious Genghis Khan, poised to change history forever. Experience the Kurultai council and a new Mongolian succession type. Engage in immersive new activities and traditions such as new year’s celebrations with Tsagaan Sar.
  • Watch the Crusader Kings III: Khans of the Steppe Announcement Trailer HERE.

    Crusader Kings III: Khans of the Steppe will be available on April 28, 2025 for the suggested retail price of $19.99/£16.75/€19.99, or as part of the Crusader Kings III Chapter IV Pack.

    Chapter IV for Crusader Kings III includes four new additions to the beloved game, including an instant-unlock clothing pack (available immediately upon purchase of the Chapter), the core expansion Khans of the Steppe, an event pack and a new major expansion that greatly expands the scope of the map and challenge of the game.

    The components of Chapter IV are:

  • Crowns of the World Instant Unlock: Available immediately upon purchase of Chapter IV, this pack includes six new historic royal crowns, four new hairstyles and two new beard designs for character portraits.
  • Khans of the Steppe: This Core Expansion pack focuses on greater historic detail and flavor for the nomadic tribes, including new game mechanics like herd migration and clan politics.
  • Coronations: This event pack highlights the decisions a ruler must make upon taking the throne. Prepare an elaborate coronation,to display your wealth and power to vassals and rivals alike.
  • All Under Heaven: This Major Expansion for Crusader Kings III extends the game map to include China, Japan and Southeast Asia. Explore new types of government, for each region, special events, decisions and roles for characters as you prepare original alternate histories of a medieval world that you will shape, unseen in any previous Crusader Kings game.
  • Crusader Kings III: Chapter IV is available now for the suggested retail price of $43.99/£37.15/€43.99.

    More game information is available on the official Crusader Kings III website, or via Steam.