Games focused on WWII used to be very popular back in the early 2000s. Since then, most popular FPS games have focused on imaginary and possible future conflicts. Some wildly popular franchises fell to obscurity, while others took their place. Fortunately, things have changed recently, and WWII-based games are popping up all over the place.
Top Games Based on WWII
Most modern gamers don’t care about realism and authenticity, so development studios don’t focus too much on it. However, when dealing with such a significant period of our history, some attention to detail definitely helps. Here are our top choices of games that put in the most effort to bring World War II events closer to the players.
Post Scriptum
Released in 2018 and set in northern France, Post Scriptum offers an alternative to chaotic Call of Duty gameplay. It’s a realistic multiplayer shooter that heavily focuses on teamwork and tactics. Only teams that work together can count to win in Post Scriptum. Players have to stay dedicated to their roles because if a single team member decides to “wing it,” it often spells disaster for the whole team.
Call of Duty: World at War
Although it suffers from classic CoD exaggeration, World at War has its moments and remains surprisingly realistic (if you ignore the zombies), especially compared to the rest of the franchise. From the Pacific all the way to the streets of Berlin, the game did a stellar job of bringing the horrors of war to the players. Although it features some classic “war hero” characters and unlikely circumstances, the game still manages to make the players feel like they’re a small part of a massive international conflict.
World of Tanks
Known as one of the most popular free-to-play games of all time, World of Tanks has gone through some drastic changes since its release. While the game has sacrificed realism for skins and other cosmetic features, it remains one of the greatest WWII-themed multiplayer titles you can play. The game is so popular that many corporate networks and educational institutions prevent access to its servers. Fortunately, this problem is easily solved with World of Tanks proxies.
Hearts of Iron IV
Many players would say that Hearts of Iron is one of the greatest strategy games of all time, and Hearts of Iron IV is as hardcore as it gets. The game features hundreds of provinces with factions all over the world for a truly uncompromising representation of this global conflict. Despite a strong focus on warfare, it’s just as important to pay attention to leadership, planning, and micromanagement. A history degree is not necessary, but it definitely helps.
Hell Let Loose
When you think about Team17 games, the word “realistic” probably isn’t the first that comes to mind. Hell Let Loose surprised everyone last year because it’s a dream for everyone who appreciates realism in their games. The game accurately depicts the grim reality of soldiers on battlefields across Europe. It requires dedication to a role in your team and makes a perfect game for people who appreciate teamwork and caution over killstreaks.
Steel Division: Normandy ‘44
While most games try their best to cover as many key events of WWII as possible, Steel Division focuses on the invasion of France. This real-time strategy gives players control over a respectable number of units, focusing heavily on tactics over everything else. Each battleground is heavily researched and presented as accurately as possible. The game also comes with a multiplayer component, offering long and demanding online matches for players who have the skill and patience.
Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad
Although it’s not a new title by any means, no WWII games list is complete without Red Orchestra 2. It was a refreshing alternative to Modern Warfare 3 and Battlefield 3, which helped it stay a fan favorite even a decade after release. Red Orchestra 2 focuses on both sides of the front and offers a slower tactical experience in which every bullet counts and can make the difference between victory and defeat.
To Victory!
WWII is probably the most covered conflict in human history. Fortunately for gamers, every new wave of interest brings newer, more complex, and more detailed games to enjoy. Most of these games have strict ban policies and often offer specific bonuses in different regions. To avoid geo-restrictions for all your favorite games, from Travian to the latest Call of Duty, use this website info. Good luck, private!