A Fresh Coat of Paint for the World War
Beyond the UI, the dev diary showcased a batch of new art and 3D assets. Players will see new infantry models, updated HQ vehicle models, and a host of new focus icons and portraits. Historical figures like Manuel Quezon of the Philippines and Arthur Percival have received updated portraits to better reflect their appearance during the war, a small but appreciated touch for historical immersion.
The most impactful new asset is the Great Wall of China, which will now appear on the map as a 3D landmark. This isn't just for show; holding territory with the wall will grant units an entrenchment bonus, adding a new strategic layer to defending Northern China. It's a smart way to translate a historical feature into a tangible gameplay mechanic.
What new strategies will the achievements unlock?
A new set of achievements was also revealed, providing clues about the intended gameplay paths in the DLC. These challenges are focused on the factions getting updates, including Nationalist China, the PRC, Warlords, Japan, and the Philippines. Here are a few examples:
- Panda-monium: As a Chinese Warlord, have all Chinese nations in your faction.
- Made in China: As Communist China, have a monthly production of at least 500 convoys.
- No Compromise, No Surrender: As Wang Jingwei, retake all of China.
These achievements telegraph some interesting alternate-history paths, from unifying China under a single warlord to turning the PRC into a naval-industrial powerhouse. They serve as a great starting point for players looking to explore the new content when the DLC arrives.