During Gamescom 2025 ONL, Wargaming, the developer behind the massively popular World of Tanks franchise, unveiled World of Tanks: HEAT, a standalone tactical shooter that takes the series in a new direction.
Already looking like an exciting experience from its trailers, World of Tanks: HEAT takes players into an alternate-history, post-Second World War timeline. The game introduces a very different style of combat than traditional tank titles, shifting into a fast-paced, dynamic shooter featuring 10-versus-10 battles. Players assume the role of elite Agents—specially trained operators who pilot experimental, hero-enhanced tanks equipped with unique abilities and advanced customization options. Wargaming says World of Tanks: HEAT is one of its boldest reimaginings of tank warfare to date.
“World of Tanks: HEAT is our bold vision for the franchise, delivering an entirely new tank experience with a fresh setting, new gameplay mechanics, faster pace, and cutting-edge tech,” said CEO of Wargaming, Victor Kislyi. “Inheriting the renowned World of Tanks DNA, the game lets players enjoy tank warfare like never before, battling in ways we once only could imagine.”
World of Tanks: HEAT features a roster of specialized vehicles inspired by original post-Second World War designs, each with distinct roles and battlefield-shaping abilities. Players can extensively customize their tanks with advanced weapon systems, armour modules, visual modifications and tactical abilities suited to their preferred playstyle. This deep personalization system allows for unique configurations that combine historical inspiration with creative reinterpretation.
Built on Wargaming’s new proprietary engine, World of Tanks: HEAT aims to deliver a modern, visually striking experience with immersive environments and dynamic cinematic effects. The technical leap goes beyond graphics, with the game set to launch simultaneously across multiple platforms, including PC via Wargaming Game Center and Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Steam Deck. This marks Wargaming’s first cross-platform release with full cross-progression support.
The gameplay adapts classic shooter modes such as Kill Confirmed, Domination and Conquest specifically for tank combat, creating what the developers describe as an entirely new experience. Unlike traditional pay-to-win models, World of Tanks: HEAT follows a “free-to-win” philosophy in which success depends primarily on player skill rather than monetary investment. Monetization will focus on cosmetic items, battle passes and time-saving options—something many fans of the genre are likely to be excited to hear.
“Today’s announcement is an important milestone for our team, reflecting all the hard work and creativity we’ve invested in the project,” said World of Tanks: HEAT Product Director, Artyom Yantsevich. “We are looking forward to working closely with players to shape HEAT’s future, and we’re excited to present the game for the first time at gamescom.”
World of Tanks: HEAT is now available for wishlist on Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Store, with players able to visit the official website at wotheat.com for additional information. Stay tuned to CGMagazine for more news from Gamescom 2025.
