News

Apr 08, 2025

Real-time strategy and tactical warfare 3D sequel Armored Brigade II is out now on Steam

From Press Release:

Armored Brigade II is a groundbreaking 3D RTS tactical warfare game that explores the “what if” scenario of the Cold War turning hot. Featuring a meticulously researched database and expansive real-world terrain maps, the game delivers an unparalleled combat simulation experience.

This sequel elevates the critically acclaimed series by transitioning to a custom-built 3D game engine, bringing Cold War battles to life with stunning detail and realism. In Armored Brigade II, players command massive Cold War battlefields generated from authentic terrain maps, spanning regions such as the North German Plain, Fulda Gap, the Ardennes, and southern Finland. Military formations, weapons, and vehicles from 1965 to 1991 are faithfully modeled, allowing players to engage in combat with iconic units like the Abrams, T-80, Chieftain, Marder, 2P32 and M56 Scorpion.

National differences are a critical aspect of gameplay, with troop quality, fire support response times, and formation compositions varying between factions. Players can choose from a broad selection of national armies, including the United States, USSR, United Kingdom, Finland, Poland, and both East and West Germany.

Anticipation is key to success in Armored Brigade II. The game’s command net system accurately models communication delays, forcing players to predict enemy movements rather than merely react. The new SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) system allows players to customize tactical behaviors for their units, whether it’s holding fire for ambushes or prioritizing survival through covered approaches.

Since the launch of Armored Brigade II on the Matrix store last November, Vetikka Studios has been hard at work enhancing the game and adding new content. With the Steam release on April 8th, new players can expect a wealth of improvements, including:

Gameplay Enhancements

  • Gameplay has been refined with several innovative features.
  • Return Suppression Fire – The tactical AI actively attempts to suppress and destroy enemies, even without a confirmed spot. If a unit comes under attack but cannot detect the enemy, it will fire towards the source of the incoming fire to defend itself— a unique feature not present in most tactical wargames.
  • Battle Replay System – Review your entire multi-hour battle within seconds, available at the end of every scenario.

Visual Enhancements and Effects

  • FXAA (Fast Approximate Anti-Aliasing) has been added, enhancing image quality without a significant performance cost.
  • New units focused on the Finnish military have been introduced, including vehicles like the StuG III, Charioteer, Comet, and XA-180.
  • black-and-white night vision mode offers a new level of immersion for night battles.
  • Major visual improvements have been implemented since launch, resulting in smoother graphics, particularly for distant objects and fine details.

Expanded and Improved Formations: The Bundeswehr

Specialized West German infantry formations have been added, including:

  • Motorized Panzergrenadiers – Mobile infantry with enhanced maneuver capabilities and flexibility.
  • Gebirgsjäger – Mountain troops trained for rugged terrain and harsh conditions.
  • Fallschirmjäger – Elite airborne infantry with a renowned reputation.
  • Aufklärungstruppe – Reconnaissance units, enhancing battlefield awareness through specialized scouting capabilities.
  • Pioniere & Panzerpioniere – Combat engineers, skilled at breaching obstacles and clearing minefields.

The game has a launch discount of 10%Armored Brigade II is out now on Steam