Wargaming’s new standalone tactical vehicle shooter, World of Tanks HEAT arrives on PC and consoles May 26, 2026. While the game focuses on the type of vehicle combat that Wargaming has become well known for, the battlefield is changing for the publisher and studio with the introduction of Operators that take a spot like heroes, a format familiar to players.
The official launch date announcement cinematic trailer, directed by Ilya Naishuller (Hardcore Henry, Nobody), signals the game’s dedication to action, and you can watch it below to get a first look at the faster and more dynamic combat that Wargaming is promising to deliver with its team-based combat in World of Tanks HEAT.
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The game introduces new mechanics and faster, more explosive gameplay to the classic franchise. This is also planned to be Wargaming’s first-ever simultaneous full cross-platform release with cross-progression. During a hands-off preview of the Gamescom reveal, it was clear that Wargaming was taking everything they had learned throughout their time with World of Tanks to make HEAT something players would immediately jump into.
What is World of Tanks HEAT?
HEAT is built from the ground up on a new proprietary engine developed in-house by Wargaming. Set in an alternate post-WWII era, World of Tanks: HEAT aims to be a faster and more dynamic take on armored warfare, driven by team-based combat, than what we’ve seen from Wargaming before. The game feels familiar enough for fans of the tank-based combat, but offers new customization options that impact gameplay and style.
What can players expect from HEAT at launch?
At launch, HEAT is showing up with more than just a couple of maps. With options being a core piece to the way that players can engage with the game, Wargaming has confirmed that the following will be available at launch:
- Eight Agents: Fitting into three battlefield roles — Defender, Assault, and Marksman, each Agent commands a lethal two-vehicle roster, with each vehicle tailored to its role in combat.
- Fifteen vehicles: Each vehicle supports a different playstyle and can be fully customized with modules and equipment. Whether holding the frontline or striking from a distance, there’s a tank that is ready for the job.
- Eight maps: The battlefields span a wide range of biomes, settings, and visual styles, each designed to support multiple playstyles across game modes.
- Four PvP modes: Hardpoint, Control, Kill Confirmed, and Conquest
What is the release date?
World of Tanks: HEAT will be available on PC (Wargaming Game Center and Steam), Steam Deck, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and NVIDIA GeForce NOW, with full cross-platform play and progression, on May 26, 2026.
