Relic Entertainment has announced that Company of Heroes 3’s Update 3.0 will launch on Nov. 5, bringing what the developer describes as the game’s biggest update since its release. The free PC update introduces significant graphical and audio improvements, smarter AI, new multiplayer maps, campaign enhancements and additional content for Final Stand.
The announcement also coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Company of Heroes franchise, which Relic is celebrating with several initiatives, including the recently announced Company of Heroes: Definitive Edition.
Company of Heroes 3 Update 3.0 Brings Major Visual and Gameplay Improvements
One of the biggest changes coming in Update 3.0 is a substantial visual overhaul, introducing new snow and rain weather effects, improved atmospheric fog, smoke and lighting, and dynamic terrain wetness. Relic has also updated soldier animations, textures and environmental details, with new industrial, winter and autumn-themed battlefields.
Audio has received similar attention, with improved weapon sounds, explosions, impacts and vehicle destruction effects. The soundtrack is also being expanded with classic music from the original Company of Heroes and Company of Heroes 2.
Gameplay improvements focus heavily on AI behaviour and balance. A new Combat Rating calculation will help computer-controlled units make better battlefield decisions, particularly when determining whether to retreat, while additional changes aim to improve late-game AI performance and encourage more varied strategies.
Single-player fans haven’t been overlooked either. The Italian Dynamic Campaign Map is receiving a visual overhaul, alongside improvements to readability, mission flow and general gameplay. Relic is also addressing progression-blocking bugs and other issues affecting the campaign experience.
Five New Multiplayer Maps and a Major Final Stand Expansion
Update 3.0 adds five new multiplayer maps covering different match sizes, alongside three significantly refreshed battlegrounds. Relic has also confirmed that every existing multiplayer map will receive improvements to its visuals, lighting, weather, atmosphere or gameplay.
The five new maps are:
Ancona Railyard (1v1)
Vire River Valley (2v2)
Foggia Winter (3v3)
Turin Steelworks (4v4)
Radarstation Mammut (4v4)
Langres (1v1), Mignano Summit Winter (3v3) and Rapido River Crossing (4v4) are also being refreshed.
Owners of Company of Heroes 3: Final Stand will receive a substantial expansion on November 5, introducing a new three-player mode and a battleground called Dam. The map features changing weather conditions that directly affect gameplay, with storms reducing visibility and unit range while clear skies allow units to engage enemies from greater distances.
The Final Stand update also includes additional player and enemy units, 14 new abilities, 35 passive technologies and further balance adjustments.
Four premium cosmetic sets will accompany the release: Climb to Glory for US Forces, Edelweiss for the Wehrmacht, Bloody Baltic for British Forces, and Cold Snap for the Deutsches Afrikakorps.
Company of Heroes 3 Update 3.0 launches on PC on November 5, continuing Relic Entertainment’s support for the real-time strategy game as the franchise celebrates its 20th anniversary.