World of Tanks: Heat combines tank action with hero shooter elements and promises innovative gameplay mechanics.
Wargaming, the developers behind tank giant World of Tanks, have announced a brand new title: World of Tanks: Heat. The game aims to combine the familiar tank gameplay with the mechanics of a modern hero shooter and will be released as a free-to-play title with cross-play and cross-progression for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam Deck.
What is World of Tanks: Heat?
At its core, Heat remains a tactical vehicle shooter, but shifts the focus to fast-paced 10-on-10 battles. The biggest new feature compared to the main game is the so-called “Agents.”
These are unique hero characters that you select before a match. Each of these agents has their own special vehicle and individual abilities that can be used in battle. These abilities range from offensive combat skills to support skills and are intended to add an extra tactical layer to the battles.
The gameplay thus moves away from the purely vehicle-based combat of the original and closer to the gameplay of hero shooters such as Overwatch, where choosing the right character for the situation is crucial.
World of Tanks: Heat is set in an alternate timeline after World War II. Although the tanks in the game are inspired by original designs, according to the developers, they have been “creatively reimagined.”
You can extensively customize your vehicles and equip them with advanced weapon systems, armor modules, optical modifications, and the aforementioned combat-changing abilities.
HEAT draws on classic shooter models for its game modes. Tank-adapted variants of familiar modes such as Kill Confirmed, Domination, and Conquest have been announced. height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;“>
New technology and fair Free2Play approach
The new title is powered by a completely new, in-house engine from Wargaming. This is designed to deliver impressive graphics, immersive environments, and dynamic effects. In addition, there will be full cross-play and cross-progression support at launch on PC (via Wargaming Game Center and Steam), PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Steam Deck. Your progress will be seamlessly synchronized across all platforms. Wargaming also emphasizes a “free-to-win” approach. Success in the game will depend solely on the skill of the players. According to official statements, monetization will focus on cosmetic items, battle passes, and time savings. New heroes and their tanks will be unlocked through gameplay and by completing missions. However, no release date has been announced yet.