The real-time strategy genre is part of the bedrock of modern gaming. In the 1990s and early 2000s, RTS titles dominated the industry thanks to classics such as the Command & Conquer, Warcraft and StarCraft series (RTS games almost always spawn sequels). However, around 15 years ago a sub-genre called MOBA (League Of Legends, DOTA 2), drew all attention away from RTS, and these once-ubiquitous series disappeared from store shelves. But the tables are turning, and RTS specialist Relic Entertainment is mounting a comeback, part of a wider, concerted effort to bring real-time strategy back to gaming in 2023.

Featuring two WWII campaigns across North Africa and Italy, Company Of Heroes 3 gives players the tools to pit a range of units from the Axis and Allies against each other. Its new game engine promises limitless tactical options thanks to the ability to destroy buildings and the landscape itself in order to carve new pathways across the battlefield. A grand strategy map, inspired by the Total War series, will expand tactical play beyond previous entries in the series, and technical innovations will better render the horror of war. This opening salvo looks set to reinvigorate RTS for a long time to come.

Released on PC on Thursday 23 February, and on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S later this year.