Despite less than stellar days for AAA ahead, Company of Heroes has been nothing if not a strong, consistent franchise so far. The game’s strong multiplayer component has also crystallized a community of hardcore fans around the IP, no doubt a huge factor in Sega’s purchase of the studio after THQ’s dissolution.
The Legacy of Company of Heroes
Company of Heroes, first released in 2006, revolutionized the real-time strategy (RTS) genre with its intense tactical gameplay and realistic World War II setting. The game was praised for its innovative mechanics, such as cover systems and destructible environments, which added a layer of depth and realism that was previously unseen in RTS games. The success of the original game led to the release of several expansions and a highly anticipated sequel, Company of Heroes 2, in 2013.
Company of Heroes 2 continued to build on the strengths of its predecessor, introducing new features like the TrueSight system, which realistically simulates a unit’s line of sight, and the ColdTech weather system, which affects gameplay by introducing harsh winter conditions. These innovations helped to further cement the franchise’s reputation for delivering high-quality, immersive strategy games.
Community and Multiplayer Engagement
The strong multiplayer component of Company of Heroes has been a significant factor in its enduring popularity. The game’s competitive multiplayer mode has fostered a dedicated community of players who continue to engage with the game long after its initial release. This community has been instrumental in keeping the franchise alive and relevant, even as the broader gaming industry has shifted towards other genres and formats.
Sega’s acquisition of the studio behind Company of Heroes, Relic Entertainment, following the dissolution of THQ, was a strategic move to capitalize on this dedicated fanbase. Recognizing the value of the community, Sega has made efforts to support and engage with players through various initiatives, including the release of free content and updates.
And it’s those fans that Sega is looking to woo with free Campaign DLC on pre-ordering the game. “We are pleased to be able to reward our most loyal fans for pre-ordering the game with this pack. These items will give them bonus single and multiplayer content to enjoy,” reported Company of Heroes 2 producer Greg Wilson.
The free Campaign DLC offered as a pre-order incentive includes additional missions and scenarios that expand on the game’s narrative and provide new challenges for players to overcome. This not only adds value for those who pre-order but also helps to maintain interest in the game by offering fresh content.
Moreover, the multiplayer content included in the DLC pack introduces new units, maps, and gameplay modes, further enriching the multiplayer experience and providing players with more options for competitive play. This approach demonstrates Sega’s commitment to supporting the community and ensuring that Company of Heroes remains a vibrant and engaging franchise.
In addition to the free DLC, Sega has also supported the modding community by providing tools and resources for players to create their own custom content. This has led to a wealth of user-generated content, including new maps, missions, and gameplay modifications, which have helped to keep the game fresh and exciting for long-time fans.
The continued success of Company of Heroes is a testament to the strength of its gameplay, the dedication of its community, and the support of its developers. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is clear that franchises like Company of Heroes, which prioritize quality and player engagement, will continue to thrive.
Source Eurogamer
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
