Company of Heroes 2
The award-winning real-time strategy game set in World War II's Eastern Front, captivating millions of players worldwide including a thriving community in India.
Overview of Company of Heroes 2
Company of Heroes 2 is a real-time strategy (RTS) video game developed by Relic Entertainment and published by Sega. Released in 2013, it is the sequel to the highly acclaimed Company of Heroes (2006).
Set during World War II, Company of Heroes 2 focuses primarily on the Eastern Front, depicting the struggles between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. The game received praise for its realistic gameplay mechanics, detailed graphics, and immersive storytelling.
Unlike many other WWII games that focus on Western theaters, Company of Heroes 2 provides a unique perspective on the Eastern Front battles, which were some of the most brutal and decisive conflicts of the war.
Key Features
- TrueSight™ system for realistic line-of-sight mechanics
- Weather effects that impact gameplay (snow, ice, blizzards)
- Detailed unit customization and upgrades
- Compelling single-player campaign and challenging skirmishes
- Robust multiplayer with various game modes
Development & Release
Development of Company of Heroes 2 began in 2010, with Relic Entertainment aiming to build upon the success of the first game while introducing new features and a fresh setting.
The game was released worldwide on June 25, 2013, for Microsoft Windows. Later versions were released for OS X and Linux. Several expansions and downloadable content packs have been released, adding new factions, campaigns, and units.
Company of Heroes 2 uses the Essence Engine 3.0, which enables advanced graphical effects and realistic physics simulations.
Gameplay of Company of Heroes 2
Company of Heroes 2 retains the core gameplay mechanics that made the first game successful while introducing new features that enhance the strategic depth and realism.
Core Mechanics
At its heart, Company of Heroes 2 is a real-time strategy game where players command military units, manage resources, and capture strategic points on the battlefield.
The game features two primary resources: Manpower and Fuel. Manpower is used to recruit units, while Fuel powers vehicles and allows players to access more advanced technologies and units.
Unlike many RTS games that use traditional resource gathering, Company of Heroes 2 utilizes a territory control system where players capture and hold strategic points to generate resources.
TrueSight™ System
This innovative feature simulates realistic line-of-sight, where units can only see what is within their actual field of vision. This adds a significant tactical element, as players must scout the battlefield and can ambush or be ambushed.
Weather Effects
Snow and cold play a crucial role in gameplay. Units can suffer from cold exposure, requiring them to find shelter or build fires. Snow can slow movement, and blizzards can reduce visibility dramatically.
Cover System
Units can take cover behind various objects, reducing damage taken. Different types of cover provide varying levels of protection, adding another layer of strategy to positioning and movement.
Factions
Company of Heroes 2 initially launched with two playable factions:
Soviet Union
The Soviet forces rely on large numbers of relatively inexpensive units. They can call upon powerful artillery support and have unique abilities like conscription to quickly reinforce their ranks.
Wehrmacht Ostheer
The German Eastern Front army focuses on quality over quantity, with more expensive but more capable units. They excel at defensive warfare and have access to advanced armor and artillery.
Subsequent expansions added additional factions, including the US Forces, British Forces, and OKW (German Panzer Elite).
Game Modes
Single-Player Campaign
The campaign follows the story of a Soviet soldier, Lieutenant Lev Abramovich Isakovich, through various battles on the Eastern Front. It provides a narrative-driven experience with historical context.
Skirmish
Players can face off against AI opponents on various maps, choosing different difficulty levels and game settings to create custom challenges.
Multiplayer
Company of Heroes 2 features robust multiplayer with various modes, including 1v1, 2v2, 3v3, and 4v4 battles. Players can join or create custom matches or participate in ranked play to climb the competitive ladder.
Company of Heroes 2 in India
India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets for Company of Heroes 2, with a passionate community of players spread across major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad.
Download Statistics in India
Since its launch, Company of Heroes 2 has seen tremendous growth in India. According to recent data:
- Over 1.2 million downloads from Indian players as of 2023
- 15% year-over-year growth in Indian player base
- Highest concentration in Bangalore (28%), Mumbai (22%), and Delhi (18%)
- Average playtime of 3.2 hours per week per Indian player
Fun Fact:
Indian players spend 23% more time in multiplayer matches compared to the global average, showing a strong preference for competitive gameplay.
Indian Player Reviews
Ravi Sharma, Bangalore
"Company of Heroes 2 is the best RTS I've ever played! The strategic depth is amazing, and I love competing with other Indian players in online tournaments. The historical accuracy makes it even more engaging."
Priya Patel, Mumbai
"As a history student, I appreciate how Company of Heroes 2 portrays the Eastern Front. The gameplay is challenging but rewarding. It's great to see more Indian players joining the community every day."
Arjun Singh, Delhi
"The multiplayer in Company of Heroes 2 is incredibly addictive. Our Delhi gaming club hosts weekly tournaments, and it's become a great way to meet fellow strategy game enthusiasts. Highly recommended!"
Localization for Indian Players
Recognizing the growing Indian market, the developers have made several adjustments to better cater to Indian players:
Server Locations
In 2021, dedicated servers were established in Mumbai to reduce latency for Indian players, resulting in a 40% improvement in connection quality.
Payment Options
Added support for popular Indian payment methods including UPI, Paytm, and PhonePe, making it easier for players to purchase DLC and in-game content.
Language Support
Introduced subtitles in Hindi and Bengali, with plans to add Tamil and Telugu support in upcoming updates.
India-Exclusive Events
The developers have organized several India-specific events to engage the local community:
- "Desh ka Josh" tournament series with cash prizes in Indian Rupees
- Diwali-themed in-game cosmetic items
- Independence Day special challenges with unique rewards
- Collaborations with Indian gaming influencers for exclusive content
Join the Indian Company of Heroes 2 Community
Download the game today and connect with thousands of Indian players. Participate in local tournaments and exclusive events!
Indian Player Strategies for Company of Heroes 2
Indian players have developed unique strategies and tactics that have proven successful in both local and international competitions. These strategies often leverage specific map knowledge and faction strengths.
Soviet Union Strategies
The "Rush and Hold" Technique (Popular in Bangalore)
Developed by top players in Bangalore, this strategy focuses on:
- Quick conscription of infantry units
- Rapid capture of key resource points
- Establishing defensive positions early
- Gradual reinforcement with heavier units
Effective on maps with multiple small resource points.
Artillery Barrage Strategy (Mumbai Style)
Mumbai players have perfected this approach:
- Focus on teching up quickly for artillery units
- Use scout units to identify enemy positions
- Coordinate timed artillery strikes
- Follow up with infantry assaults
Works well against defensive German players.
Wehrmacht Strategies
Blitzkrieg Defense (Delhi Variant)
A unique adaptation from Delhi's competitive scene:
- Establish strong defensive perimeters
- Use mobile units to counterattack weak points
- Tech for medium tanks as quickly as possible
- Use terrain to funnel enemy attacks
Highly effective on urban maps with narrow streets.
Resource Denial Tactic (Hyderabad)
Hyderabad players excel at this economic strategy:
- Prioritize capturing and holding fuel points
- Use hit-and-run tactics on enemy supply lines
- Invest in anti-infantry units early
- Gradually build superior force through resource advantage
Requires patience but often leads to decisive victories.
Map-Specific Tactics from Indian Champions
| Map | Best Faction | Key Strategy | Indian Proponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stalingrad Kessel | Soviet Union | Urban warfare with sniper support | Rajiv Mehta, Bangalore |
| Minsk Pocket | Wehrmacht | Armored flanking maneuvers | Anjali Sharma, Delhi |
| Kursk | Soviet Union | Massed artillery with infantry screening | Vikram Patel, Mumbai |
| Kharkov | Wehrmacht | Defensive lines with mobile reserves | Sanjay Reddy, Hyderabad |
Advanced Tips for Indian Players
Indian CoH2 champion Vikram Patel shares these pro tips:
- "Learn to read the mini-map constantly. Indian players often miss subtle movements that can change the course of battle."
- "Master hotkeys! In fast-paced matches, using your mouse for every command puts you at a disadvantage against international players."
- "Study replays of your matches. Our analysis shows that Indian players improve 3x faster when reviewing their gameplay."
- "Join local Discord communities. Team communication is where Indian players often excel, so leverage that advantage."
Company of Heroes 2 Indian Community
The Indian Company of Heroes 2 community is vibrant and growing, with numerous active groups, tournaments, and online communities connecting players across the country.
Major Communities
Indian CoH2 League
With over 5,000 members, this is the largest Company of Heroes 2 community in India, organizing weekly tournaments and practice sessions.
Desi Strategists
A Delhi-based community focusing on teaching new players and developing advanced strategies for Indian players.
Bharat Warriors
Specializes in team-based gameplay, with regular 4v4 matches and clan wars against international teams.
Tournaments in India
India CoH2 Championship
Annual tournament with ₹5,00,000 prize pool, attracting top players from across the country.
City League Series
Regional tournaments in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, with city champions competing in a national final.
Online Battle Nights
Weekly online tournaments with smaller prizes but large participation, perfect for casual players.
Content Creators
GamerGuru India
YouTube channel with strategy guides focused on Indian player preferences.
Strategy Singh
Live streamer specializing in high-level multiplayer matches and commentary.
CoH2 India
Community manager and organizer of major Indian tournaments.
Local Events & Meetups
Indian Company of Heroes 2 players regularly organize and participate in local events:
Monthly LAN Parties
Major cities host monthly LAN parties where players gather for in-person tournaments and friendly matches. These events typically attract 50-100 players.
Upcoming: Bangalore LAN Party (last Saturday of every month), Mumbai Gamers Meet (second Sunday).
Gaming Convention Presence
The Indian CoH2 community has a strong presence at major gaming conventions like India Gaming Show, PAX India, and Comic Con India, with dedicated booths and tournament stages.
Next convention appearance: Delhi Comic Con (December).
Join the Conversation
Connect with fellow Indian Company of Heroes 2 players through these platforms: