Company of Heroes 3 Review: The Perfect Addition to Any WWII Buff’s Game Collection

Welcome to the front lines of World War II in the Mediterranean Theater, where Company of Heroes 3 takes players on an intense real-time strategy adventure. Developed by Relic Entertainment, this third installment of the series expands its scope beyond the usual European theater of war and offers players a chance to experience the battle for Italy and North Africa.

The game follows the familiar mechanics of previous titles, with players controlling and upgrading units, capturing points for resources, and battling in destructible environments. The standout feature of the game is the new “dynamic” Italian single-player campaign that allows players to set their own course for re-taking Italy through a zoomed-out strategic map.

One of the significant improvements in Company of Heroes 3 is the game’s expanded scope. Instead of focusing solely on the Western Front, the game also takes players to the Mediterranean Theater, exploring theaters often overlooked by other WWII games. This change in setting adds new challenges and complexities to the gameplay, as players have to navigate a new environment with different terrains, resources, and strategic considerations.

The game’s dynamic environment is another area where Company of Heroes 3 excels. The environment is fully destructible, and players can use it to their advantage by creating barriers, hiding behind walls, or blowing up enemy structures. This feature adds a new layer of tactical depth to the game, allowing players to experiment with different strategies and tactics.

Additionally, Company of Heroes 3 features an improved AI system that makes battles more challenging and unpredictable. The enemy AI adapts to the player’s strategies, forcing them to adjust their tactics and constantly remain on their toes. The AI also creates unique situations that make each battle feel different from the last, adding to the game’s replay value.

The multiplayer mode offers fast-paced, intense gameplay that tests players’ skills and strategies. The mode includes several options, including co-op and competitive play. The “tug of war” gameplay style, where players must balance their efforts between capturing points and upgrading their tech tree, creates a thrilling gameplay experience that keeps players engaged and invested in every match.

While Company of Heroes 3 is a great addition to the series, it does have some weaknesses that may detract from the overall experience for some players. One of the most notable weaknesses is the slow pace of the early game in the Italian campaign. Players start with limited resources and a small unit headcount, which can make it difficult to progress quickly and can feel restrictive.

Additionally, the campaign can sometimes feel repetitive, with some missions feeling too similar to others. While the dynamic environment in the skirmishes is impressive, some players may find that they start to feel too similar after a while.

Overall, Company of Heroes 3 is an impressive addition to the series that delivers an immersive experience to WWII buffs and real-time strategy enthusiasts alike. The new dynamic campaign and multiplayer modes offer fresh and challenging gameplay, while the colorful graphics and attention to detail provide an aesthetically pleasing experience. While the restrictive early game in the campaign mode and occasional repetitive gameplay can be frustrating, these minor flaws are overshadowed by the game’s strengths. If you’re looking for an exciting and immersive WWII strategy game, Company of Heroes 3 is a must-play.

RATING: 4.0 out of 5.0