THQ, Relic Announce _ Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts_

Major publisher THQ has announced the PC real-time strategy follow up to the critically acclaimed Company of Heroes with Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts, currently in development at Relic for release this fall. Built upon Relic's proprietary Essence Engine and Microsoft DirectX 10, Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts is billed as a standalone follow-up. Much like Relic and THQ's most recent Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War expansion, Dark Crusade, Opposing Fronts will support, but not require players to have the original Company of Heroes in order to play this game once it's available. While the original game placed players in the role of Able Company as they participated in battles all across Europe, Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts will have players take up the role of either the German Panzer Elite in Operation Market Garden, or the British 2nd Army in the battle for Caen, France. The upcoming title will also boast a new online experience as well with new, as yet unspecified multiplayer modes. ”In Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts players will experience fast-paced dynamic tactics like never before, in two of the most brutal World War II campaigns ever fought,” said Relic Entertainment general manager Tarrnie Williams. “With two intensely cinematic campaigns, significant upgrades to the Essence Engine, mission persistence, improved vehicle AI and weather effects that directly impact the battlefield, we’re delivering yet again on our commitment to leading the way in strategic gaming with the best, most innovative titles available.”