Yesterday a new free patch was released for Company of Heroes 3 – patch 1.6 (called Coral Viper). Company of Heroes 3 is the latest game in the Company of Heroes franchise, widely considered to be the best real-time strategy game franchise of all time. Set during WWII North Africa and Italy, Company of Heroes 3 came out over a year ago, and since release has gotten so much better thanks to the constant free patches released for the game. Let’s delve into the details of the Coral Viper 1.6.0 patch for Company of Heroes 3. This update brings exciting changes, enhancements, and fresh content to the game, ensuring that players remain engaged and thrilled on the virtual battlefield, making now the ideal time to get this game if you have not done so already.

This blog post will just focus on the new features introduced in patch 1.6. If you want a more general article about the game, check out our blog post about patch 1.5, or visit the official website of the game.

Coral Viper New Battlegroups: A Strategic Shift

The Coral Viper patch introduces 2 new Battlegroups, a significant addition that alters the strategic landscape. These specialized groups allow players to tailor their forces to specific playstyles and historical contexts. Let’s explore the two new Battlegroups:

1. British Forces – Australian Defense Battlegroup:
   • Inspired by the exploits of the Australian 9th Division in North Africa, this defensive battlegroup showcases the resilience of volunteer infantry. Despite facing Germany’s Blitzkrieg tactics, the Australians successfully defended key locations like Tobruk and El Alamein.
   • Traits:
     • Light Infantry: Agile and adaptable infantry units.
     • Defensive Emplacements: Fortify your positions with defensive structures.
     • Economy Boost: Manage resources efficiently.
     • Anti-tank: Counter armored threats effectively.
2. Deutsche Afrikakorps – Battlefield Espionage Battlegroup:
   • This cunning battlegroup excels at concealment, ambushes, and resource plundering. Keep your enemy guessing about your movements and strike where they least expect it.
   • Traits:
     • Economy Manipulation: Control resource flow.
     • Area Disruption: Disorient opponents with surprise attacks.
     • Ambush Gameplay: Set traps and exploit weaknesses.
     • Stolen Equipment: Utilize enemy gear to your advantage.

Coral Viper Community Maps: Expanding the Theater

The Coral Viper patch introduces three new community-created maps, each offering unique challenges and opportunities:

1. Operation Eindhoven (2v2):
2. The Gothic Line (3v3):
3. Oasis Depot (4v4):

Coral Viper Technical Improvements and Adjustments

Beyond content, the Coral Viper patch addresses technical aspects:

• Refined Vehicle Pathfinding: Vehicles now navigate more smoothly, reducing frustrating moments on the battlefield.
• Strategic Balance Adjustments: Fine-tuning ensures a fair and engaging experience for all players.
• Vote to Surrender: A crucial feature for competitive matches, allowing teams to concede when necessary.
• Automatch Cooldown: Prevents consecutive matches against the same opponent.

Company of Heroes 3 : A Note of Appreciation

Relic Entertainment expressed gratitude to the player community by offering the new Battlegroups for free (0 Merit) via the in-game Store. The Coral Viper patch breathes fresh life into Company of Heroes 3, blending historical accuracy, community creativity, and technical enhancements. Whether you’re a seasoned commander or a fresh recruit, these updates promise exciting battles and memorable moments on the virtual frontlines. If you have not yet tried this game, now is the perfect time to pick up a copy and give it a go.