For those seeking a strategic escape this weekend, Relic’s World War II real-time strategy game, Company of Heroes 3, is offering a unique opportunity: it is completely free to play until Monday. This promotion allows players to immerse themselves in the game’s expansive Italian campaign, where they can command troops across the picturesque yet tumultuous Italian peninsula, engaging in both scripted battles and semi-random skirmishes against the Wehrmacht.
Game Enhancements and Community Response
In addition to the free access, this weekend coincides with the release of a significant 2.0 anniversary update, which has introduced considerable changes aimed at enhancing the overall gameplay experience. The update reworks many of the Italian campaign’s companies, emphasizing their specialized roles on the battlefield. Players can expect an increased variety of skirmishes, with both new and existing maps being adjusted to accommodate larger-scale battles.
Moreover, the update brings a host of adjustments to unit costs, abilities, and recruitment times, ultimately improving the balance and pacing of the game. The 2.0 update also expands the map selection, featuring returning favorites like Angoville, alongside new additions such as Crossing in the Woods and community-created maps like Djebel Pass. These enhancements extend to the multiplayer experience, refining faction behaviors and the characteristics of specific units and structures, all while addressing numerous bugs that have plagued the game.
The community’s response to these changes has been largely positive. Recent reviews on Steam have garnered a ‘Mostly Positive’ rating, with players expressing satisfaction over the game’s evolution. One user remarked on the turnaround, stating, “This was a complete dumpster fire at launch, but it appears Relic have pulled off a miraculous recovery with the 2.0 Update.” Such sentiments reflect a hopeful resurgence for Relic, which has faced challenges since the initial launch of Company of Heroes 3.
As the studio transitions back to independence after parting ways with former owners SEGA, the support from an investment firm is expected to bolster its creative endeavors. For those intrigued by the revamped gameplay, Company of Heroes 3 is available for free until March 10, with the base game currently offered at a 50% discount until Thursday. This presents an excellent opportunity for both new players and veterans to explore the enhanced features and campaigns at a reduced price.
