Company of Heroes (video game)

Company of Heroes is a real-time strategy (RTS) video game developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ in 2006. It is set during World War II and focuses on the Western Front, primarily depicting the experiences of American and German forces.

The game emphasizes tactical gameplay, requiring players to manage resources, control territory, and utilize cover effectively. Units gain experience and abilities as they survive combat, making preservation of squads a key strategic element. The environment is highly destructible, influencing tactical decision-making as players can create new lines of sight or deny enemy cover.

Company of Heroes features a single-player campaign following Able Company of the U.S. 1st Infantry Division from the Normandy landings through the liberation of France. Multiplayer modes allow players to compete against each other online in various scenarios.

The game was critically acclaimed upon release for its innovative gameplay mechanics, high production values, and immersive depiction of World War II combat. It spawned two standalone expansion packs: Opposing Fronts (2007), which added British and Panzer Elite factions, and Tales of Valor (2009), featuring shorter vignettes focusing on individual battles. A sequel, Company of Heroes 2, was released in 2013, shifting the setting to the Eastern Front. The game has maintained a dedicated player base and is considered a significant title in the RTS genre.