Hello commanders!

We are back with an exciting new Nemesis vote! That’s right, the Steel Division 2’s community-favorite (and favored vote) has returned. In today’s DevBlog, we’ll present the first option of Nemesis #7.

Let’s put the spotlight on the US 1st Armored Division “Old Ironsides” and the German 71. Infanterie-Division. While the Axis and Allied divisions didn’t directly oppose one another, they were both stationed along the Italian Gothic Line in the late summer of 1944.



Let’s go!

Nemesis DLC Vote

The Nemesis DLC is back. What does that mean? In the coming weeks, we’ll be detailing two new battlegroups, one from the Axis and one from the Allied side. They are typically thematically or historically linked, often based on a special or unsung battle of World War II.

Once we have finished previewing each set of options, we will open the vote, and you can decide which Nemesis DLC should be developed next. Then, the Eugen team will start crafting and tinkering in our workshop (which might take some time). In the last couple of years, we have already released six other Nemesis DLCs, from Lvov Offensive, Nemesis: Storming Toulon to Nemesis: Siege of Dunkirk.

In short, we present one option for two divisions each week. After three Nemesis previews, you get one vote to choose your preferred option.

US 1st Armored Division “Old Ironsides”

The “first-born” of American armored divisions, the US 1st Armored Division “Old Ironsides” was created in 1940 by expanding the 7th Cavalry Brigade, which had been the US pre-war armored testbed. While the United States wasn’t at war, the brutal efficiency of the German panzers in Europe during the Poland invasion and later combat in the Low Countries and France wasn’t lost to the American planners.

When the US finally entered the war at the tail-end of 1941, the 1st Armored Division shipped to England for further training, fielding early war equipment such as M3 Lees, Stuart light tanks, T19 and T30 self-propelled guns.



The division’s first taste of combat occurred in November 1942 when it took part in the Allied landings in Vichy France Algeria during Operation Torch. Soon after, the first German units were encountered. One of the more inglorious war events occurred during the Battle of Kasserine Pass when Rommel’s swift counter-attacks mauled about a third of the inexperienced American division. While the blow was humiliating, the division bounced back and recovered with surprising speed, dismissing ineffective commanders and promptly reevaluating methods and equipment.

The 1st Armored Division returned for the closing week of the Tunisia campaigns before participating in the liberation of Sicily and the invasion of mainland Italy. It turned out to be the sole armored division at the Anzio landings and a subsequent battle for the bridgehead.



By this time in the war, new American armored divisions were reorganized under a “light” TO&E. The 1st Armored Division kept its old “heavy” TO&E (like the 2nd and 3rd Armored Division). Only after the breakout from Anzio and the capture of Rome would the formation reorganize along lighter lines, turning into a “mechanized” formation better adapted for the cramped Italian theater of war.

Upon reaching the Gothic Line in 1944, the 1st Armored Division, now a veteran formation, was reinforced with co-belligerent Italian units in an attempt to breach through the heavy German defensive lines. It finished the war on the Italian front.

The 1st Armored Division in Steel Division 2

A hybrid armored division, from “heavy” turned “light,” with additional Allied Italian attachments, the 1st Armored Division is more mechanized than a pure tank formation.

The Italian front featured much more constrained terrain than Northwestern Europe and was unsuited for wild, head-long cavalry rides. As such, the division’s RECO forces, while based on a “true” cavalry scout regiment, are quite average compared to, say, the 4th Armored Division. Meanwhile, INF can be deployed in more generous slots compared to other US Armored divisions, featuring even more than actual TANK slots. With stand-off firepower being a key element to subdue Axis defenses in Italy, SUPP and ART are the division’s strong suits, while AT and AIR are more average and AA particularly scarce.

The 1st Armored Division was one of the first American formations to go to war, but it never left the Mediterranean theater. By 1944, it was at the bottom of priorities regarding replacements (including equipment). This means the division is still fielding some pretty old materiel and vehicles brought over from North Africa. This kind of equipment was usually retained and subordinated to lesser units, giving them a bit more firepower.

The 1st Armored Division Detailed

Let’s detail each divisional category. Note that units bolded and italic are new!

• RECO - The formation’s recon elements field “cavalry” style equipment and units. Not accounting for the usual array of vehicles (Stuart, Greyhound) it can also field CAVALRY SCOUTS, AMMO & PIONIEERS, BANTAM jeeps, M6 FARGO, as well as a few attached Italian ESPLORATORI. Unlike other American units, and more in line with their Commonwealth counterparts, the 1st Armored Division scouts have jalopied Stuart light tanks for recon. These were not the battlefield-modified Stuart Recce, but rather a specially designed T8E1. These new units are more mobile but are not meant to transport scouts. They are best used as a light recon tank.

• INF - Slogging it out since North Africa and overused in the mountainous Italian terrain, the grunt of the 1st Armored Division suffers from the same battle weariness as the British 7th Armoured Division. This means that new variants of ARM. RIFLES (BAR) and ARM. RIFLES (LMG) will get a free veterancy, but this comes with the Battle Weary trait. They are also locked to half-tracks as a transport option. Lighter infantry squads come in the option of two Italian attachments, both from the co-belligerent 210a Divisione di Fanteria Ausiliaria:
  
  • The 67º Reggimento Fanteria forms the basis for the new FUCCILIERI (“vanilla,” Bren and Leader variants) reequipped with British small arms. Briefly attached to this formation were the BERSAGLIERI A.U.C. (Allievi Ufficiali di Complemento) squads, also a new unit, which were officer cadet battalions. All the fit and healthy personnel had been transferred elsewhere, leaving only the crooked shell of demoralized, unhealthy recruits who, in real life, had a staggering rate of desertion and hospital admittance. As such, this latter squad will feature the Disheartened trait.
    
  • The 210º Raggruppamento Genio da combattimento provide GUASTATORI squads, including flamethrower-armed variants.

• TANK - This category covers M5A1 light tanks and pretty much all types of Sherman tanks, as the 1st Armored Division quickly replaced its M3 Lees with the 75mm M4 and later the M4A1. The M4A3 was reserved for the Northwestern European theatre and was unavailable to the battlegroup. However, in a peculiar move, the division received one of the first batches of M4A3(76)W tanks as replacements later in 1944. This new unit, including the command variant, will be phase-locked.
  
• SUPP - This is well equipped with the usual set of units, from HMGs to supply commanders, flamethrowers, and the like. Representing the division’s heavy reliance on direct fire support, the M8 SCOTT, T30 HMC, M4(75) and even a M7 PRIEST are used in an assault gun role. Some Italian units are also featured, including the new CARABINERI military police, BREDA M37 HMG and OBICE 65/13 plus a rapid-firing anti-tank rifle, the new S18/1000. This latter unit will be treated as a 20mm HMG, on par with the German Erdkampflafette 43.

• AT - As mentioned, the divisional’s anti-tank forces are pretty light. It contains the usual BAZOOKA weapon teams, towed M1 57mm and M1 76mm AT guns, a few M10 TANK DESTROYERS as well as Italian CANNONE 47/32.
  
• AA - Again, with the Axis air threat being pretty non-existent by the time the Allies reached the Gothic line, the battlegroup’s anti-air forces have been reduced to a bare minimum. Units available include the usual M16 MGMC and, more unusual, a new unit, the T28E1 MGMC. This is a predecessor to the M15, which is armed the same but features less armor.

• ART - This is one of the division’s strong points, with a wide array of light and heavy artillery units. It includes the usual 60mm, 81mm and 107mm mortars, M21 self-propelled mortar and M7 105mm howitzer. It can also count on the heavy towed M1 155m and M1 203mm howitzer. The latter unit comes with its dedicated artillery tractor, in the form of the new M33 PRIME MOVER, which is basically a repurposed de-turreted M3 Lee.

• AIR - The 1st Armored Division won’t have access to generous air forces and can only call on fighter and fighter-bombers, including two new models of Italian Re.2001CN fighters and American A-36 APACHE fighter-bombers. The latter is a dive-bomber variant of the Mustang.

German 71. Infanterie-Division

Next up is the Axis 71. Infanterie-Division. The original formation saw the light in 1939 and took part in the invasion of France in 1940, where it made propaganda headlines by capturing Verdun, the symbol of World War I. Dubbed “The Lucky One” after that, the division returned to Germany to act as a training unit before being sent east to participate in the invasion of the Soviet Union. There it took part in major battles such as the Battle of Kiev in 1941, the Second Battle of Kharkov in 1942, before fate took it to Stalingrad. Here, the 71. Infanterie-Division was destroyed, ceasing to exist in January 1943.

The division gained a second lease on life with replacement troops, and this time, it was not sent to the Eastern Front but to sunny Italy. Barely six months after the division’s reformation and still in training, the capitulation of the Axis-Italian government saw the formation hurriedly sent to Italy to disarm Italian forces. The division would spend most of its time on this front. The 71. Infanterie-Division was tasked with coastal protection and anti-partisan duties before being deployed on the frontline, where it played a major role during the Battle for Monte Cassino in the spring of 1944.



Severely depleted during the various Allied offensives, the division was moved to a quieter sector, impassable terrain. Here, instead of rest and recuperation, the 71. Infanterie-Division was targeted by an offensive of the light-footed French Expeditionary Corps’ mountains troops, severely mauling the German formation. As such, the infantry division was moved to the other side of the Italian theatre, to the Adriatic coast, assigned to hold the left flank of the Gothic line. Fighting Canadians, then Poles, then co-belligerent Italians, the division was slowly bled dry.

The 71. Infanterie-Division would not see the war's end in Italy. Transferred to Hungary to take part in the ill-fated Lake Balaton offensive, it retreated to the west afterward, reaching Austria to surrender to the British in May 1945.

German 71. Infanterie-Division in Steel Division 2

The 71. Infanterie-Division was chosen as one of the original testbed divisions for the StG 44 assault rifle in 1943, though it doesn’t appear to have been very high on the infantry weapon’s replacement list after that. For instance, it retained the GrB.39 anti-tank rifle turned into AT grenade-launcher well into 1944. The formation also confiscated a lot of Italian weaponry from SMGs and LMGs, and a large percentage of the division’s artillery and armor. Another defining feature was the strangely high number of scoped rifles, which was more in line with the German Army’s mountain division arsenal.



In Steel Division 2, the division receives some additional infantry from Axis RSI “Blackshirt” formations. Earlier in the war, these were fascist volunteers organized in paramilitary units attached to regular army formations. They would compensate for their lack of experience with political fanaticism. After Italy’s Armistice, most remaining Blackshirt units were of low quality, with a few Blackshirt “M” battalions (for either “Mussolini” or Muerte, meaning death, with the debate still ongoing) being of better caliber, at least in terms of political zeal. These were found to be fighting on anti-partisan duty behind the frontline, or coastal defense, in 71. Infanterie-Division’s area of operations.

German 71. Infanterie-Division Detailed

The 71. Infanterie-Division is an infantry division with strong artillery, and even if total tank numbers might be lacking, some potent armor options are available.

• RECO - An average category with the regular complement of AUFKLÄRER, SPÄHTRUPP, and BMW recon units. The new FUSILIER (ZF) will make good use of some of the battlegroup’s ample supply of scoped rifles. The SPW AB41(i) can also be fielded.
  
• INF - One of the formation’s strong points. The bulk of the infantry will be composed of the new GRENADIER (GrB 39) with MG-34 and GrB. 39 anti-tank rifle. One card of the new GRENADIER (MG-42) will receive an extra Breda 30 LMG, courtesy of disarming the local Italian forces. The new GREN. FÜH. (ZF) will bring an extra number of scoped rifles.

• More specialized squads are featured in the form of - one card each - STURMGRENADIER and STOSSTRUPPEN (Beretta).
  
• The new PIONIER (GrB. 39) will also feature the anti-tank rifle. Regular PIONIER FÜH. and STURMPIONIER will also be available.
  
• Finally, the new SQUADRISTI (Blackshirts) will deploy in two flavors: one squad equipped with a MG-42 and the other with a FM 24/29. Both units will also be armed with Panzerfaust.

• TANK - Rather restricted in numbers, several interesting tank unit choices will be featured.
  
• The division’s well-represented STUG M42 75/34 will be joined by the very rare (only a dozen produced historically) STUG M43 75/46, which is a new unit. This latter vehicle features a much more potent long 75mm tank gun, derived from an AA piece, which only the 71. Infanterie-Division and two other formations ever possessed.
  
• A single card of Panther A from the nearby I,/Panzer-Rgt. 4.

• SUPP - A well-supplied category with the usual allotment of HMGs, flamethrowers, light mortars, supply vehicles and commanders. Additional units include STUG M42 75/18 and STUG M43 105/25. The very rare IG 37 was fielded by this division. These infantry guns were a mix of PaK 36 carriages accommodating the few IG 42 barrels produced, which was a new 75mm infantry gun intended to replace the IG 18. It features more range and a better HEAT round.
  
• The Italian Blackshirts bring some SQUADRISTI BREDA M31 (a licensed copy of the Hotchkiss 13,2mm HMG), SQUADRISTI BREDA M37 and SQUADRISTI BRIXIA 45mm.

• AT - The anti-tank forces of the division are above average with PANZERSCHRECK, both PAK 177(i) and CANNONE DA 47/32, PAK 40, MARDER III H tank destroyers and a few JAGDPANZER IV A-0 (from s.PzJ. Abt. 525).
  
• AA - Rather light, with self-propelled SDKFZ. 10/4 and SDKFZ. 7/1, as well as the new Italian SCOTTI 20mm AA gun.

• ART - Another strong point of the division, with all the regular divisional 81mm and 120mm mortars, as well as le.FH 105mm and s.FH 150mm howitzers, plus some more.
  
  • Captured guns include the new le.FH 255(i) 75mm (Italian Obice da 75/18), le.FH 315(i) 100mm (Italian Obice da 100/17) and le.FH 255(i) 75mm (Italian Obice da 75/18).
    
  • Nearby supporting artillery units bring the super-heavy MÖRSER 18 210mm, as well as the NbW 42 210mm and PANZERWERFER 150mm multiple rocket launchers.
• AIR - This category features a mix of Axis and Italian RSI planes: Fw-190F-8, Me-109G-6, C-205 VELTRO and SM.79 SPARVIERO bombers.

See you on the battlefield

That’s all for this week’s Nemesis #7.1 preview. We’ll be back with more next week!

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield.

Hello, hello!

In last week’s DevBlog, we took a first look at the upcoming free Aces DLC making its way to Steel Division 2. First on the stage were the five new Allied Aces.

As you might have guessed - and you guessed right - in today’s post, we’ll look at the five remaining new Axis Aces.

Let’s go!

Axis Aces

Aces are special Steel Division 2 units based on historically noteworthy soldiers, commanders, or airmen. Within the game, they have a unique golden-rimmed portrait, markings, and personal paint job. They don’t offer any gameplay advantage.

The new Aces DLC will feature two sets of Aces: several from our original Steel Division: Normandy ‘44 who haven’t made their appearance yet in Steel Division2, and a number of completely new ones. The DLC will feature in total 10 new Aces.

Please note that the following is still a work in progress, including the DLC’s name and release date.

With that out of the way, let’s get to the 5 new Axis Aces.

Willy Kretzschmar
The 12. SS-Panzerdivision will feature tank commander Willy Kretzschmar with a Panzer IV H. This Ace was originally featured in Steel Division: Normandy ‘44.

In terms of enemies destroyed, in an army where the leading aces were counting their victims in three-digit numbers, Willy Kretzschmar would have remained an anonymous “mere” ace with 15 confirmed kills. However, the lucky hit of a Canadian artillery shell changed this.



The Allied projectile hit Kretzschmar’s “536” Panzer IV front right corner, ripping apart armor and tracks. After having been towed back to a workshop, where it received a series of hasty repairs, its crew took the tank into combat again in a rather battle-damaged condition. Looking worse for wear but still actively engaging the Allies, the tank and its crew were spotted by a German war correspondent who duly took a picture. This made Kretzschmar and his Panzer IV famous, especially for post-war history buffs!



Lauri Torni
The Axis Finnish Raapaana will have the infantry commander Lauri Törni as a Jääkäri (Kpääl) Jäger leader. This Ace is new to Steel Division 2.

Regarded as the father of all long-range recon patrol forces, the legendary Finnish Lauri Törni fought in three uniforms and under two names in two separate wars! After combat service during World War II, he enlisted in the US Army, being deployed with the ultra-secret MACV-SOG group before ultimately missing in action during the Vietnam War in 1965.

But let’s rewind a bit: Finnish-born Törni saw first combat against the Soviets in the Winter War of 1940. When the Continuation War kicked off in 1941, our Ace had become an officer, leading a detachment of light troops specialized in infiltration and deep reconnaissance behind enemy lines. He was awarded the Mannerheim Cross, Finland's highest award, for his exploits during this time.


( Lauri Torni in the middle)

After the armistice with the Soviet Union in 1944, he found his way to his former German instructors, enlisting with the Waffen-SS and fighting out the rest of the war until surrendering to the British. Hounded by the Finnish for treason, he was captured and escaped multiple times. In 1952, he found his way to the United States, where he joined the recently created US Special Forces, rising in the ranks - much like in Finland - before deploying for his tours in Vietnam under his new name Larry Thorne. He is regarded as one of the founders of the Green Berets.

Walter Möse
The 28. Jäger-Division will feature infantry assault squad Walter Möse as a Sturmjäger. This Ace is new to Steel Division 2.

A German volunteer soldier who tried to enter the Wehrmacht in 1938, Möse suffered a severe back injury during training, which led to him being discharged. He re-enlisted in 1941 with the 28. Jäger-Division in time for fighting on the Eastern Front, where he distinguished himself well. As a sergeant, during the Battle of Novgorod in January 1944, with all his battalion’s officers killed or wounded, he took charge of his unit and repelled all subsequent Soviet attacks. He earned the Knight’s Cross with Oak Leaves for this action. Möse was killed in action in November 28th, 1944, near Goldap, East Prussia. By that time, he had been wounded 21 times!



Aladar Heppes
The Axis Hungarian 2. Pancelos will contain pilot Aladar Heppes in a (Hungarian) Me-109G-6/R6 fighter. This Ace is new to Steel Division 2.

Our next Ace seems a little bit more “standard” compared to the more daring of our other military heroes. Still, Heppes, a Hungarian fighter pilot, had 8 confirmed victories against Soviet and American planes. In 1942-43, part of the Axis Hungarian forces, he fought in the USSR before being recalled to Hungary to lead a home defense fighter wing, the 101. Vadászrepülő Osztály (101st Home Defense Fighter Wing). This squadron featured the infamous “Pumas” on their insignia, which earned Heppes the nickname “Old Puma”. The squadron became feared by American bomber pilots, as they regarded the Hungarian pilots as “crazy” in combat. In the latter part of 1944, the unit was transferred to the frontline, fighting over eastern Hungary and Romania. Heppes survived the war.



Ion S. Dumitru
The Axis Romanian 1 Blindata will contain tank commander Ion S. Dumitru, who will be featured in-game in a T.4 Comanda (a Romanian Panzer IV H Leader[/b]). This Ace is new to Steel Division 2.

The Ion S. Dumitru is a survivor of Stalingrad and a tank commander who took part in the Jassy-Kichinev campaign, as playable in the Steel Division 2’s expansion Steel Division 2: Bloody Sunday. Interned by the Soviets during the Turda campaign, Ion S. Dumitru escaped and reenlisted in another Romanian tank unit to keep fighting for the Allies until the war's end. Ironically, it was in this unit that Dumitru made his remaining kills, which actually saw him make ace (though, within the DLC, he will be featured while still fighting for the Axis).

See you on the battlefield

That’s all for this week’s DevBlog. We’ll be back soon!

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!

• Fix rare crash when receiving invalid order

Hello commanders!

We hope you are well. In today’s DevBlog, we will preview a previously announced (but kept slightly hush-hush) free mini-expansion coming to Steel Division 2: the Aces DLC.

Please note that the following is still a work in progress, including the DLC’s name and release date.

Today, we’ll look at the upcoming Allied Aces first.

Let’s go!

A batch of old and new

As we mentioned in our recently updated roadmap, we are going to release a free-to-all mini-expansion for Steel Division 2 owners, containing a host of new Aces.

For those who don’t know what Aces are, they are Steel Division 2 units based on historically noteworthy soldiers, commanders, or airmen. They have a unique golden-rimmed portrait, markings, and personal paint job. Keep in mind that they don’t offer any gameplay advantage.



The new Aces DLC will feature two sets of Aces: several from our original Steel Division: Normandy ‘44 who haven’t made their appearance yet in Steel Division2, and number of completely new ones. The total roster is 10 Aces in total!

Today, we’ll focus on all the Allied Aces.

Allied Aces

Let’s gaze upon the ranks of Allied Aces looking for a new Steel Division 2 home.

Leo Major
The Allied Canadian 3rd Canadian Infantry Division will feature Leo Major as a sniper-scout. This Ace was originally featured in Steel Division: Normandy ‘44.

Without a doubt, one of the most badass soldiers of World War II. This one-eyed Quebec pirate/sniper scout was a verifiable one-man army. He set foot on Normandy soil - specifically Juno beach - during D-Day and specialized in reconnaissance, sniping, and lots of bravado, creating a legend from France to the Netherlands.



Major emerged victorious from pistol shoot-outs, capturing vehicles, secret documents, and over a hundred prisoners in the course of the war. He is also most famously known for charging and single-handedly liberating the Dutch town of Zwolle, forcing out its entire German garrison.

Pierre Clostermann
The Allied French 2e Division Blindée will feature the pilot Pierre Clostermann in a Spitfire Mk. IX . This Ace was originally featured in Steel Division: Normandy ‘44.

With 33 confirmed aerial victories, Pierre Clostermann is France's number one fighter ace. Studying in the United States when the war broke out, he enlisted in the Free French Air Force, flying a multitude of missions. After D-Day, he was one of the first Free French pilots to land in Normandy.



He served both in the “Alsace” squadron and RAF’s 602 Squadron, participating in everything from fighter sweeps, shooting down V1 flying bombs, to battling Me 262 jet fighters later in the war. Clostermann’s post-war memoirs, The Big Circus, is a must-read for any World War II air combat buff.

Major John Howard
The 6th Airborne Division will feature Major John Howard as a British AB Leader unit. This Ace was originally featured in Steel Division: Normandy ‘44.

Made especially famous after the war, Major John Howard might be best remembered by the phrase ”Hold until relieved…”. A starring role in the epic The Longest Day, our British paratrooper officer was the commander of the first combat group to land in Normandy on D-Day.



His mission was to secure and hold the “Pegasus Bridge” over the Caen Canal intact until Allied troops would join up from Sword Beach. Major Howard and his soldiers accomplished the mission with flying colors despite heavy German counterattacks.

Lafayette Green “Wardaddy” Pool
The Allied U.S. 3rd Armored Division will feature tank commander Lafayette Green “Wardaddy” Pool as a CMD M4A1 unit. This Ace was originally featured in Steel Division: Normandy ‘44.

The inspiration for Brad Pitt’s character in the movie Fury, Lafayette Green “Wardaddy” Pool was a Sherman tank commander during the Normandy fighting, ultimately surviving three of his tanks being shot out from under him. All three were named In the mood, with the last kill seriously injuring Pool.



With only fighting for four months, from Normandy to Germany, “Wardaddy” was credited with 12 confirmed tank kills and the destruction of 258 other armored vehicles, making him the greatest American tank ace up to this day.

Ivan Savel’Evich Kravcov
The Allied 7. Eesti will feature Soviet pilot Ivan Savel’Evich Kravcov. He will fly in the La-5FN fighter. This is a brand-new Ace.

A naval aviator and instructor with the Soviet Baltic Fleet, Ivan Savel’Evich Kravcov fought in all the campaigns on the northern front. He got his first taste of combat during the defense of Leningrad before participating in the Vyborg offensive against Axis Finland in 1944.



Later he accompanied the Baltic Front’s advance in Estonia. By this time, Kravcov was the regimental commander, having flown on LaGG-3, lend-lease Hurricane, and La-5 fighters. Our Ace would be credited with 29 individual kills and 4 shared ones by the war's end.

See you on the battlefield

That’s all for this DevBlog. Note that the Eugen team is partially out of office due to some May bank holidays. This means that next week, there will be no Steel Division 2 DevBlog. However, in two weeks, we’ll return and look at the new Axis Aces to be featured with our Aces/ DLC!

Don’t forget that the latest Steel Division 2 expansion has just been released.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2873780/Steel_Division_2__Tribute_to_Normandy_44/

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!

Hello, hello, hello!

In today’s Steel Division 2 DevBlog, we talk maps. That’s right, we’ll be previewing the upcoming Dukla Pass map.

Let’s go!

A new battlefield

The new Dukla Pass map will be released for free to all owners of Steel Division 2. The same will happen with the new Valley of Death map (which you can read more about in this DevBlog here). These two new maps will likely come as two separate free Reinforcement Packs DLCs.



So, what’s the deal with these two new maps? They can be seen as a precursor to our next Army General expansion, codenamed Dukla Pass. The historical details you can check out in this DevBlog.

Inspiration

Both maps are centered on the historical Battle of Dukla Pass on the Polish-Slovak border fought in the second half of 1944. This series of battles featured the Axis (the 1st Panzer Army and the 1st Hungarian Army) opposed by the Soviets commanding elements of the 1st and 4th Ukrainian Front, as well as the 1st Czechoslovakian Army Corps (composed of former Czech soldiers exiled in the Soviet Union, refugees, Slovak POWs, etc.).

The Soviets, with the Czechoslovakian Corps, slogged through a mountainous battlefield to join up with Slovak Uprising rebels on the plains beyond. Ultimately, it was too little, too late, with the campaign ending in a (temporary) German victory.



The Valley of the Death map was inspired by the battlefields around Svidnik, where the actual pass leads out into a wider valley. In comparison, the Dukla Pass map is on the other side of the Laborec Highlands, just south of Dukla (hence the name). In this area, the Carpathian mountains begin to climb. Several valleys rise towards the pass, forming parallel “canyon-like” gullies.

Dukla Pass detailed

As already mentioned, Dukla Pass takes advantage of the quickly rising Carpathians to create three “corridors.” The main one, the broader valley in the center, contains the Dukla-Svidnik road. The two narrower corridors, one on each side, are smaller valleys. Ultimately (not depicted), these merge into a single valley before reaching the pass itself (likewise off-map). At the edges of each side, dense forests represent the woods of the real-life mountain range.



Each of the three corridors is separated by relief, which increases in height the deeper you advance (depending on the direction you travel). This represents the beginning of the Laborece Highlands, inspired by real-life terrain variations.



While separated through height difference and thick forest, connections between the corridors exist. Pathways reach plateaus and go down on the other side. That’s why, if some Spartan-wannabes block one path, you can still try to go sideways and outflank the enemy blocking force. While the valleys have quite a few villages and farmsteads, which can act as defensive strong points, the higher plateaus are mostly devoid of structures and buildings. There are a few isolated settlements, but most of this terrain is covered in woods.



Sight lines down in the valleys or on the plateau’s edges are pretty open, allowing for long-range engagements. However, the plateaus themselves are better suited for close combat and ambushes.

See you on the battlefield

That’s all for this DevBlog. Let us know what you think!

Don’t forget that the latest Steel Division 2 expansion has just been released.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2873780/Steel_Division_2__Tribute_to_Normandy_44/

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!

Hello commanders,

Back again! We hope you are doing well. In today’s DevBlog, we’ll look at what’s coming next for Steel Division 2.

Let’s go!

A New Roadmap

This updated roadmap is a revision of Steel Division 2’s plan we unveiled some time ago. You can check it out in this dedicated post here.



So, what does the future hold for Steel Division 2?

• We are working on a new Army General campaign expansion, codenamed ”Dukla Pass”. More details can be found here.

• A free Ace Reinforcement Pack.
  
• We will deliver not one but two new free maps: DUKLA PASS and VALLEY OF DEATH (check out the latter’s preview here).

• And previously undisclosed: a new Nemesis vote is coming to Steel Division 2 soon! Nemesis DLC allows the community to choose which two divisions (out of a paired series of six) will make it to Steel Division 2. It bridges the gap between expansions and not make you wait too long for new toys to play with.

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44

The latest Steel Division 2 expansion has just been released. Get it while it’s still hot!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2873780/Steel_Division_2__Tribute_to_Normandy_44/

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 celebrates Steel Division history, introducing 14 of the original Steel Division: Normandy '44 divisions to Steel Division 2. The expansion contains 14 new divisions from five nations and 200 new units, including brand-new vehicle and plane models, voice acting, 8 Aces, and new infantry model sets.

See you on the battlefield

That’s all for this week. We’ll be back very soon.

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!

• fixed some missing acknows (including new NZ ones)
  
• fixed some typos
  
• fixed Fs-FÜHRER UHLIG's category, stealth & speed, on par with its non-ace counterpart
  
• fixed the American PATHFINDERS (both ATF & 101st)' influence over the frontline
  
• increased MG-26(t)'s accuracy from 10 to 15, on par with the Bren buff
  
• increased SU-152's HP from 10 to 12, as announced in previous log but forgotten
  
• decreased FFI PANZER III H's price from 30 to 25, on par with other such tanks
  
• decreased STUART VI's price from 30 to 25, on par with other such tanks
  
• unlocked Fs-GrW 120mm for all FJ divisions
  
• display KOMANDOSI's missing AP value
  
• halved the off-map US 356mm salvo, on par with other super-heavy artillery
  
• (7AD) removed MOT. RIFLES LDR.'s AP icon (display issue only)
  
• (2Pz) fixed PANZER IV J's veterancy ratio, on par with other divisions (while keeping the free vet)
  
• (14ID) unlocked Pak 183(f) 47mm

• decreased Pe-2-83 (with RBS-132)'s price from 150 to 140

Get ready, commanders!

Our new expansion Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 is available now!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2873780/Steel_Division_2__Tribute_to_Normandy_44/

The latest expansion brings 14 new divisions, new Aces, new units, new unit art, and much more. That’s not all! A massive patch with a host of balance changes and updates has made its way to Steel Division 2, available to all owners. More details below!

Steel Division 2 Updates

As usual, the new expansion also heralds a host of improvements and updates affecting the base Steel Division 2. This giant patch is available for free for all owners of our game.

You can check out the patch notes in detail by following the link here.

Some of the major points:

• Commando infantry’s effectiveness has been toned down, especially those in the Allied Task Force, Groupement Dody, and SSB divisions.
  
• Infantry’s Fall Back mechanic’s damage reduction has been tweaked. Retreating soldiers will be more prone to take damage, especially from tanks.
  
• Sniper rifle DPS has been reduced by decreasing aim time and rate of fire.
  
• Standardized 7.62mm HGM stats, updating the abysmal performance of some obsolete models.
  
• Updates, improvements, and general balancing “love” to older divisions.
  
• And much more!

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 celebrates Steel Division history, introducing 14 of the original Steel Division: Normandy '44 divisions to Steel Division 2. The battlegroups are updated to take advantage of the latter title’s gameplay mechanics, traits, unit design, and more. Not only that, the expansion also features a host of new Aces, unit art, etc.

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44 contains 14 new divisions from five nations and 200 new units, including brand-new vehicle and plane models, voice acting, and new infantry model sets. The latest expansion will let players take the divisions solo, online, or cooperatively. Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44 ships for €19,99, the same price as previous Steel Division 2 “Tribute” expansions.

Note, Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 does not contain new maps. These are planned for future expansions.

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44 Insights

We have a handy forum post ready if you want to do some background reading or catch up on the many historical and gameplay insights we published on Steel Division: Tribute to Normandy ‘44. It links to all divisional Versus posts, units, backgrounds, new Aces, and much more.

Be sure to check it out by following it here.

See you on the battlefield

We can’t wait to hear what you think of our latest expansion. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

Join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!

• fixed SPITFIRE Mk. Vc/trop MITRALEXIS' skin which didn't appear as a specific one as it should
  
• changed TF 45 & TF BUTLER's coat of arms with more fitting ones
  
• fixed BUL's battlegroup filter being called "Breakthrough" (display issue only)
  
• swapped HELLCAT I 250lb 1 500lb loadout's speed, so the light one one goes faste
  
• fixed COMMANDO CMDR.'s number of smoke grenades from 99 to 3
  
• fixed FS-JÄGER (ZF)'s wrong AT trait's icon (display issue only)
  
• fixed LORRAINE(f) 150mm's missing top view picture
  
• fixed COMMANDO (N°10)'s Vickers K's accuracy on par with their CONVERTED RAF's counterparts' one
  
• fixed PANZER M4-748(a)'s veterancy ratio on par with other M4A2
  
• fixed ISU-152's vet ratios so they don't get free vet2
  
• fixed 75mm SP AUTOCAR M3's unit category from Recon Tank to Recon Vehicle
  
• fixed some infantry units' size (GUASTATORI, various COMMANDO, ...) in regard with transport space
  
• fixed GEB. STURMPIONIER's missing fuel tank for the flamer
  
• fixed GEB. PIONIER's extra fuel tank despite no flamer
  
• fixed US AB ENGINEER LDR.'s number of weapons (was missing one)
  
• fixed French P-47F-22-RE with HE rocket not firing on Fire on Position order
  
• fixed AB LEADER's overlapping weapon models
  
• fixed 94-M ZIS-12's ammo loadout
  
• fixed some missing/extra trait icons
  
• fixed GOUMIERS ECLAIREURS' cargo size from Light to Heavy
  
• fixed PZ.GRENADIER FÜH. (1941)'s weapon models' distribution
  
• fixed GLIDER RIFLES' steath being the same as regular troops, and not Raider one.
  
• fixed 61-K 37mm's different ammo consumption when firing against ground or air targets.
  
• fixed SU-152's HP from 10 to 12, on par with other KV-based vehicles.
  
• fixed regular US M1919 MMG's being airborne models.
  
• fixed S. African & Polish STUART RECCE's speed on par with their other counterparts
  
• renamed DRUŻYNA SZTURMOWA into the more correct FIZYLIERZY
  
• renamed D-CA GR. SZTURMOWEJ into the more correct D-CA FIZYLIERÓW
  
• renamed the (RSI) GUASTATORI CMDO.'s sniper ammo loadout
  
• renamed the doublon (RSI) GUASTATORI CMDO. into PIONIERI CMDO.
  
• renamed D-CA SAPERZY into the more correct D-CA SAPERÓW
  
• replaced MARDER III H's F-22 gun with a German PaK 40 + price increased from 35 to 45
  
• fixed ATF PATHFINDERS's cargo space
  
• fixed COMMANDO LDR.'s number of smoke grenades
  
• fixed FS-AUFKLÄRER's missing picture
  
• fixed Lw-JÄGER's missing AT trait's icon
  
• fixed STURMTIGER's weapon feedback
  
• fixed M7 DD's NATO icon
  
• fixed some Russian & Polish units & weapons' naming issues
  
• fixed BL 5,5-inch 140mm's damages: its indirect HE damage were slightly too high while its indirect HE one were (way) too low. Both fixed at 7.
  
• decreased HETZER & JAGDPANZER IV's aiming time from 3 to 4, on par with other enclosed TD
  
• changed M-42 45mm's APCR round for a proper one fitting the gun stats. Currently, it had the one from 45mm tanks, with different aiming time, RoF, ...
  
• removed the Radio trait from the S-African CARRIER 2-INCH, on par with other such vehicles.
  
• fixed OST-TRUPPEN & KOSAKEN PIONIER's Mosin from Finnish to Soviet ones
  
• removed/added some trait icons (display only)
  
• fixed T.A. COMANDA's availability on par with German command StuG
  
• fixed UNIV. CARRIER DSZK's availability on par with its Soviet counterpart
  
• fixed 14.ID, 52.Sich. & Korück's IG 290(r)'s availability on par with other divisions
  
• fixed MUSTAD MANTLID's number of displayed weapons
  
• fixed British STUART VI's price from 25 to 30, on par with other nations
  
• fixed British SP BOFORS' crew models
  
• replaced B-71's 12,7mm MGs with proper ShKAS 7,62mm ones
  
• fixed 194mm off-map salvo pattern
  
• fixed M8 SCOTT's optics on par with open-top vehicles
  
• (AG only) fixed JAGDPANZER IV FÜH.'s name (was called JAGDPANZER 38(t) FÜH.)
  
• (AG only) fixed JAGDPANZER IV FÜH.'s gun (which wasn't the same as other JgdPz IV)
  
• (AG only) fixed Hungarian Me-109G-6/R2's missing unit picture
  
• (9GKC) fixed EMCHA's veterancy ratio being different from other M4A2
  
• (Blindata) fixed German elite PANZER IV H's availability from 2/5/- to 3/6/-
  
• (Dody) fixed TRACTION CMDT's veterancy from vet0 to vet2, on par with other commanders
  
• (2Panc) fixed JU-88's veterancy pattern

• changed Autoprotection's armor vallue based on ST tests
  
• reduced the rate of fire of scoped (bolt & semi-auto) rifles
  
• decreased recon BMW 750 with MG's price from 10 to 5
  
• changed T-34/76 Obr. 1942's vet curve for a more generous one
  
• standardized all s.FH 18 150mm's HP at 10
  
• standardized all HUMBER Mk.III's HP at 8
  
• standardized all KV tanks' HP at 12
  
• standardized all PANZER 38's HP at 8
  
• standardized JU-88D's veterancy ratios
  
• standardized SHERMAN V's veterancy ratios
  
• standardized all A-20's resilience
  
• standardized all Fs.-GrWf 80mm's base availability at 4/8/12
  
• standardized x96 cluster bombs' reload time (nerf for German SD2, buff for Soviet PTAB)
  
• decreased TRIALCE's price from 10 to 5
  
• new Motor Rifle models for British infantry
  
• improved the performance of the following HMG: SCHWARLOZE, BREDA M37, M1919 & MG-08
  
• standardized all LA-5FN fighter's availability at 3/6/9 vet0
  
• renamed Soviet mortars from GRAN. to MINOMET
  
• set all FIREFLY Ic's base availability to 4/8/12 in all divisions
  
• increased 45mm APCR round's penetration from 100mm to 110mm
  
• set all recon motorcycle with side-car & MG at 5. Some had been forgotten in previous patches.
  
• increased Breda & M1919A4 HMG's price from 15 to 25
  
• increased all nations' PAK 97/38's price from 30 to 35
  
• set all IL-2M3 (132mm HE/FRAG rockets)'s price to 110
  
• set all PE-2-83 (132mm HE/FRAG rockets)'s price to 125
  
• set all PE-2-83 (82mm HE/FRAG rockets)'s price to 120
  
• changed Pe-2 with AT rockets' availability from 1/2/4 to 2/4/-
  
• increased MG.08's price from 20 to 25
  
• increased SCHWARLOZE's price from 20 to 25
  
• set all 150-155mm artillery observers in Jeep/Kubel's price at 160
  
• fixed a few discrepancies with 8/16/24 pattern's veterancy ratios
  
• decreased AT variant of ZiS-3's price from 45 to 40
  
• increased M1A1 PACK & SKODA 75mm gun's damage from 1,52 to 2,2, on par with IG 18

• changed all GrW. 120mm mortars in all Fallschirdivisionen with its "Fs.-" variant with Radio
  
• decreased PZ.GRENADIER (Schreck)'s price from 30 to 25
  
• changed Fs.-PZ.ABWEHR's base availability from 3/6/9 to 4/8/- + price decreased from 35 to 30
  
• changed M-10 152mm's base availability from 1/2/4 to 2/4/(6) + when 3 cards were available, decreased to 2
  
• decreased CALARASI's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased VANATORUL DE CARE R-35's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased STUG III E's price from 35 to 25
  
• decreased LUCHS' price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased PANZER III H's price from 30 to 25 (including CV variant)
  
• decreased OSTTRUPPEN's price from 20 to 15 + changed their weapons for Soviet ones
  
• renamed KOSAKEN into REIT.-KOSAKEN
  
• increased l.PaK 41 GERLICH's price from 35 to 40
  
• decreased SDKFZ. 135/1's price from 60 to 55
  
• increased PANZER 35S(f) FÜH.'s base availability from 2/-/- to 3/-/-
  
• increased LW-JÄGER's base availability from 12/18/24 to 12/24/32
  
• changed Fs-STURMPIONIER's G43 into MP-40, on par with other STURMPIONIER
  
• add PUMA some APCR rounds + price increased from 45 to 50
  
• decreased Fs-FÜHRER's price from 30 to 20
  
• decreased MUNIWAGEN PANZER III's price from 50 to 40
  
• decreased MUNIWAGEN T-34's price from 55 to 50
  
• decreased BERGEPANTHER's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased SPW 221's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased SPW 221 PZB. 41's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased SDKFZ. 251/7's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased SDKFZ. 247's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased U304(f) PAK's price from 15 to 10
  
• decreased recon BMW 750 with Solothurn's price from 15 to 5
  
• changed T-34/76 Obr. 1942's vet curve for a more generous one
  
• decreased PANZER 39H's price from 20 to 15
  
• decreased Fs-PIONIER's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased LAFFLY V-15T's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased STUKA ZU FUSS' price from 155 to 140
  
• increased STURMTIGER's HP from 10 to 12
  
• standardized all MARDER II's HP at 10
  
• standardized all S307 vehicles' HP at 6
  
• decreased 7TP's MG range on par with other tank MG
  
• decreased 7TP's price from 20 to 15
  
• decreased VK.1081's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased SPW 234/3's price from 40 to 35
  
• decreased Fs-GrW. Kz 81mm 's range from 3000m to 1800m + price decreased from 65 to 55
  
• decreased (all) SOMUA S35's price from 25 to 20
  
• changed BEWÄHRUNG's availability per card from 6/12/- to 8/16/-
  
• changed PUMA's availability per card from 4/8/12 to 6/12/-
  
• decreased SPW MIC (105mm) FAO's price from 90 to 75
  
• changed (German & Hungarian) JU-88D recon plane's base availability from 4/8/- to 2/4/8
  
• (Lehr) replaced JAGDPANZER IV with JAGDPANZER IV A-0, an earlier model with lesser front armor. Price/avail changed accordingly
  
• decreased (all variants) PANZER VI J's price by -5
  
• decreased KFZ. 4's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased GRENADIER (MG.099)'s price from 20 to 15
  
• decreased (rocket) IAR 81c's price from 105 to 85
  
• decreased PIONIERII CALARI's base availability from 9/18/27 to 6/12/18
  
• increased ITA. FREIWILLIGE's base availability from 9/18/- to 12/24/-
  
• increased BF-109 G-2/R2's base availability from 1/2/4 to 2/4/6
  
• standardized all Fw-190A-8 fighter's availability at 3/6/9 vet0
  
• standardized all MARDER III H & MARDER III F's vetarncy ratio
  
• decreased BERGPANTHER's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased AUFK.PANTHER's price from 140 to 130
  
• increased LORRAINE 150mm's price from 125 to 130
  
• decreased HUMMEL's price from 130 to 125
  
• decreased MARDER II's price from 55 to 50
  
• decreased BF 109 G-2/Br 21's price from 115 to 110
  
• decreased JRS 79/B1 (napalm)'s price from 115 to 100
  
• decreased IAR-80M/BR 21's price from 100 to 85
  
• fixed T.A. COMANDA's availability on par with German command StuG
  
• added BEUTE FIREFLY the Radio trait on par with other recon Shermans
  
• increased FÜSILIER's price from 25 to 20
  
• decreased SDKFZ. 10/4's price from 45 to 35
  
• (5Pz) add one card of 3/-/- IG.33
  
• (5Pz) changed GRILLE's base availability from 1x card of 4/8/12 to 2x of 4/8/-
  
• (12SS) add one card of JAGDPANZER IV A-0
  
• (20Pz) added OPEL BLITZ as transport option to FK-288(r)
  
• (21Pz) changed PAK 43/41 88MM for the same number of PAK 43 KRUPP 88mm (beware: the new ones have to be placed back in your deck)
  
• (21Pz) decreased WURF. 35H(f)'s price from 130 to 120 + availabilty from /1/2 to -/2/-
  
• (26Pz) change JAGDPANZER IV with JAGDPANZER IV A-0
  
• (25PzG) add two card of 2/4/- FLAKVIERLING
  
• (HG) no JAGDPANZER IV A-0 in this division (ANNULE LA LIGNE PRECEDENTE A CE SUJET)
  
• (HG) replaced 1 card of of 4 of JAGDPANZER IV with JAGDPANZER IV A-0, as above.
  
• (14ID) added one extra card of PAK 40
  
• (14ID) added one card of A/B FK 231(f)
  
• (14ID) added one card of A-only PAK 183(f) 47mm (= French Schneider 47mm in Romanian service)
  
• (716ID) changed MARDER H39's base availability from 4/8/12 to 6/12/-
  
• (1FJ) removed the 0 TANK slot
  
• (1FJ) moved 4-pt's TANK slot to AIR tab
  
• (1FJ) add one card of 2/-/- STUH 42
  
• (1FJ) add one card of 3/-/- STUG M42 75/18
  
• (1FJ) change JAGDPANZER IV with JAGDPANZER IV A-0
  
• (4FJ) changed FS.AUFKLARER (Brend)'s availaibility from 4x cards of 3/6/9 to 2x of 5/10/15

• added GRUPY SZTURMOWE's the Shock trait
  
• decreased STRELSCZY (SVT)'s price from 20 to 15
  
• increased COMMANDO (N°4)'s price from 25 to 30
  
• increased COMMANDO (N°6)'s price from 30 to 35
  
• added FFI CMDT a PIAT + price increased from 20 to 25
  
• added AMMO. & PIONIER a Bazooka
  
• increased (American) AB RIFLES from 25 to 30
  
• decreased ACV-IP Mk.IIA's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased MMG CARRIER's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased CARRIER RAZVEDKA's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased CARRIER 12,7mm (Kiwi & Soviet)'s price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased CARRIER DOUSHKA's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased STUART RECCE's price from 25 to 15
  
• decreased GMC .50's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased WLA DT's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased BA-10 BTR's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased BA-20's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased BA-64B's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased HUMBER LRC Mk.III's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased M6 FARGO's price from 20 to 10
  
• decreased GAZ-61 RAZVEDKA's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased WC-52 12,7mm (US & Soviet)'s price from 10 to 5
  
• increased MATADOR SUPPLY (CW & Soviet)'s price from 40 to 50
  
• increased AMMO & PIONIERS' price from 25 to 30
  
• increased M15 HELLCAT's price from 50 to 60
  
• increased ARM. LMG RIFLES' price from 25 to 30
  
• changed AMMO & PIONIERS' availability from 6// to 3/6/-
  
• changed M4A2's vet curve for a more generous one
  
• changed CHURCHILL IV's vet curve for a more generous one
  
• standardized all truck-borne BOFORS' HP at 7
  
• standardized all FORD GPA's HP at 4
  
• standardized all AUTOCAR M3's HP at 6
  
• standardized M4A1 & M4A1 DD's veterancy pattern
  
• changed CHALLENGER's veterancy pattern to be more generous
  
• increased (American) AB ENGINEERS' price from 25 to 30
  
• increased GMC .50' price from 5 to 10
  
• decreased (all) recon M5A1's price from 35 to 30
  
• decreased (all) non-recon M5A1's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased HONEY STUART's price from 25 to 20
  
• decreased (all) CHURCHILL IV's price from 50 to 45
  
• decreased (all) CHURCHILL VI's price from 55 to 45
  
• decreased VALENTINE IX's price from 50 to 45
  
• changed M6 280mm howitzer's base availability from /1/2 to 1/2/-
  
• renamed Estonian "Kuulipildurid" squads into more proper AUTOMAATURID & AUTOMAATURITE ÜLEM
  
• increased (AT rockets) HELLCAT I's price from 150 to 160
  
• decreased HUMBER AA's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased (AT rockets) PE-2-83's price from 150 to 140
  
• decreased HAUB. M.17 100mm's price from 75 to 65
  
• decreased PROT M.38 50mm's price from 40 to 35
  
• decreased MUSTANG MK.III's price from 115 to 105
  
• decreased OSNAZ SAPERI's price from 20 to 15
  
• added DESANT. SAPERI smoke grenades
  
• added MUSTAD MANTII a DP-28 (back)
  
• decreased STRELKY KOMROTI (PTR)'s price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased DESANT. KOMROTI's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased DESANT. SAP. KOMROTI's price from 30 to 25
  
• increased GORNO. AVTO.'s price from 20 to 25
  
• decreased MORSKAYA SAPERI's price from 25 to 20
  
• decreased SU-152's price from 70 to 65
  
• decreased La-5FN (2x50kg)'s price from 125 to 110
  
• decreased La-7 (50kg)'s price from 125 to 115
  
• decreased Pe-2-83 (10x132mm HE)'s price from 140 to 125
  
• added (AK) SAPERZY smoke grenades
  
• decreased GRUPY SZTURMOWE (MG-42)'s price from 25 to 20
  
• increased COMMANDO (N°4) ASLT's price from 20 to 25
  
• increased MORRIS LRC OP (127mm)' price from 180 to 190
  
• increased RANGERS' price from 20 to 25
  
• decreased DEMOLITION GROUP's price from 35 to 30
  
• decreased CMD M8's price from 40 to 30
  
• decreased P-38 (6x110mm HE)'s price from 135 to 125
  
• increased FUCILIERI CMDO's price from 30 to 35
  
• increased ALPINI CMDO's price from 25 to 30
  
• increased MARO CMDO's price from 20 to 25
  
• decreased WC-25 HMG's price from 10 to 5
  
• decreased COMMANDO D'AFRIQUE's price from 30 to 25
  
• decreased FFO FUSILIERS' base availability from 12/24/32 to 9/18/27
  
• decreased ZENISTE's base vailability from 9// to 6/9/-
  
• decreased AVTOMATCHIKI (and all assimilated)'s base availability from 8/16/24 to 6/12/24
  
• increased SAPERZY's base availability from 4/8/12 to 6/9/12
  
• increased OSS LEADER's base availability from 2/4/6 to 3/6/-
  
• increased SOE LEADER's base availability from 2// to 3//
  
• decreased GUASTATORI's base availability from 9/18/- to 6/12/18
  
• added DESANT. SAPERI some smoke grenades
  
• increased SU-152's armor from 70 to 85mm + price from 70 to 85
  
• decreased WC-52 HMG's price from 10 to 5
  
• changed HUMBER Mk.4's availability from 5/9/18 to 6/12/18
  
• changed DAIMLER ARMORED CAR's availability from 6/9/12 to 6/12/-
  
• changed COMMANDO N°10's availability from 6/12/- to 5/10/-
  
• changed (American) AB ENGINEERS' base availability from 6/9/- to 5/10/-
  
• increased MOSQUITO FB VI (napalm)'s price from 115 to 125
  
• decreased IL-4 (308mm rockets)' price from 135 to 115
  
• decreased YAK-7B (82mm rockets)' price from 115 to 100
  
• decreased LAGG-3-4 (napalm)'s price from 115 to 95
  
• increased AB ASSAULT GROUP's price from 25 to 30
  
• decreased (all CW nations) 4-man SCOUT with PIAT's price from 25 to 20
  
• decreased ANICHNEFTIS' price from 25 to 20
  
• added the STUDEBAKER as transport option for the M-30 12mm howitzer in all divisions where the truck is available
  
• changed DESANT. RAZVEDKA's base availability from 2/4/6 to 3/6/9
  
• changed COMMANDO N°4 (DEMO)'s base availability from 8/16/- to 6/12/18
  
• changed NUEVE's base availability from 4/8/- to 6/9/-
  
• increased HELLCAT I (227kg bombs)'s price from 135 to 140
  
• decreased HELLCAT I (227kg bombs)'s speed from 50 to 525km/h
  
• changed RAZVEDKA's base availability from 3/6/9 to 4/8/12 + when 4 cards were available, decreased to 3
  
• changed all OSNAZ's SVT-40 to PPSh-43
  
• opened vet1 as option for MAQUISARD
  
• changed American RIFLES (Late)'s avail from 9/15/27 to 9/18/27 pattern
  
• changed PRACINHAS' avail from 9/15/27 to 9/18/27 pattern
  
• (TF45) fixed M1 155mm HOWITZER's veterancy ratios so it doesn't get any more free vet
  
• (1ATF) removed all (ground) British troops from phase C, the British Airborne Brigade being only "on lend" for a short duration
  
• (1ATF) changed 3-inch MORTAR's availability from vet0 4/8/12 to vet1 3/6/9, as other 3-inch Radio mortars
  
• (SSB) restricted MORRIS LRC OP (127mm) to Emergency mode only
  
• (6AB) changed 3-inch MORTAR's availability from vet0 4/8/12 to vet1 3/6/9, as other 3-inch Radio mortars
  
• (CIABG) changed 3-inch MORTAR's veterancy from vet0 to vet1, as other 3-inch mortars
  
• (2NZ) changed (Kiwi) 3-inch MORTAR's veterancy from vet0 to vet1, as other 3-inch mortars
  
• (3CID) fixed RAM OP's veterancy ratios so it doesn't get any more free vet
  
• (2eDB) removed PIONNIERS the FFI SDKFZ. 251/1 as transport option
  
• (Dody) increased TIRAILLEURS LDR.'s base availability from 3/6/- to 2/4/6
  
• (Dody) increased MONTAGNARDS LDR.'s base availability from -/6/9 to -/4/6, number of cards changed accordingly
  
• (3GvTK) increased VALENTINE IX's number of cards from 1 to 2
  
• (3GvTK) added one card of VALENTINE IX (note: replaces the other Valentine entry for this division)
  
• (3GTK) add one card of SU-85
  
• (10GTK) changed T-6 TIGR's base availability from 3/6/9 to 3/6/-
  
• (26GSD) changed SU-85's availability from 4/8/- to 4/8/10
  
• (184SD) fixed ISU-122's veterancy ratios
  
• (Bezu) changed SU-88's base veterancy from 0 to 1
  
• (1LWP) decreased SU-85's number of cards from 1 to 2

Hello!

The release of our latest major expansion Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 is imminent. Next week April 9th is launch day!

In today’s DevBlog, we’ll take a final look at all the new divisions coming to Steel Division 2 with the most recent in-game descriptions.

Let’s go.

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44

We celebrate Steel Division history with Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44. The major new expansion introduces 14 of the original Steel Division: Normandy '44 divisions to Steel Division 2, updating them to take advantage of the latter title’s gameplay mechanic, traits, unit design, and more. Not only that, the expansion will feature a host of new units, new Aces, unit art, etc.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2873780/Steel_Division_2__Tribute_to_Normandy_44/

Let’s look at each division as they will appear in-game, including their divisional insignia.

Allied Divisions

U.S. 1st Infantry Division "Big Red One"

The U.S. 1st Infantry Division "Big Red One" was one of the first to ship to Europe in World War II. Its soldiers amassed valuable experience in amphibious assaults in North Africa and Sicily. The veteran division led the bloody landing on Omaha Beach, cementing its reputation for the rest of the war.

Representing the initial wave to hit the beach, Assault groups are supported by off-map 356mm naval guns. The battlegroup counts on many other experienced units, from weapon teams, mortars, and recon, to leader and AT guns. While the division’s combat soldiers are first-class, armor and supporting arms are more standard. Air cover is substantial, including P-38J fighter-bombers, P-51D fighters, and A-20G bombers.

The U.S. 1st Infantry Division "Big Red One" is an expert in assault operations thanks to its veteran soldiers, heavy artillery, and air power.

U.S. 4th Armored Division

The U.S. 4th Armored Division was one of the first “light” American tank divisions to be created in World War II. Kept in reserve during the initial fighting in Normandy, the formation’s armor was unleashed during Patton’s Operation Cobra, playing a crucial role in breaking the frontline and liberating Brittany.

The U.S. 4th Armored emphasizes speed over firepower, relying on Cavalry Scouts, M8 Cavalry armored cars, fast M18 Hellcats tank destroyers, and even an improvised Rosie the Rocketeer bazooka-equipped Piper L-4 Cub. After reconnaissance in force, the way is opened for follow-up M4(75), self-propelled M12 155m, and M30 armored supply vehicles.

The U.S. 4th Armored Division is closer to a swift mechanized battlegroup than a heavy tank force. Mobility, not brute firepower, will be the key to victory.

U.S. 101st Airborne Division

The U.S. 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles” is one of the most famous American formations. Despite its inexperience and dispersed landings during D-Day, the paratroopers performed well. The division later saw action in Market Garden and famously during the Battle of the Bulge.

The 101st Airborne focuses on Airborne and Glider infantry squads with the Raider trait, which also applies to weapon teams, mortars, recon, leader, and AT guns. Among these are the Filthy Thirteen raiders with their infamous Mohawk haircut. With only light tanks and AA units, the division counts heavily on air forces for support. These come as the B-25C-20 Mitchell bomber, plus numerous P-51 and P-47D fighters and fighter-bombers.

The U.S. 101st Airborne Division relies on well-equipped paratrooper squads, which excel in urban combat or fighting on congested terrain.

UK Guards Armoured

The United Kingdom’s Guards Armoured Division was founded in 1941 by grouping various Royal Guards and Household units. Normandy would be the formation’s baptism of fire. While opposed by some of the most experienced German troops, the Guardsmen proved their mettle, especially during Operation Goodwood.

As His Majesty’s own, the Guards Armoured are lavishly equipped with the best the British Army has to offer. A heavy tank division, it can call on Firefly Vc, Cromwell, Sexton, Challenger, and Achilles armored vehicles, and even a Crusader Tractor. Artillery levels the playing field with Long Tom and BL 7,2-inch, bringing a serious amount of firepower to bear.

The Guards Armoured is a British steamroller that counts on plenty of heavy units. Slow-moving, it lacks light troops and can call on only limited air support.

UK 7th Armoured "Desert Rats"

The legendary 7th Armoured Division "Desert Rats” fought with distinction in North Africa. In 1943, Montgomery’s finest were recalled for rest and refit before shipping out to Normandy after D-Day. Here, compared to their previous exploits, the war-weary veterans performed less well on the cramped French battlefields.

The “Desert Rats” call on a high number of experienced units, some with the Battle Weary trait. The division’s tank force relies almost entirely on Cromwells, backed by a handful of Firefly Vc. Unique units include the Abbot of Chantry command tank, Desert Rats elite assault squads, and the Northern Irish recon tanks. Foreign Allied support is present with American M12 GMC self-propelled guns, Allied Belgian Spitfire LF Mk. IXc fighters and New Zealand Tempest fighters and fighter-bombers.

The 7th Armoured Division is an experienced tank battlegroup hampered by war weariness.

4th Canadian Armoured Division

The 4th Canadian Armoured Division played a crucial part in the break-out from Caen. The formation made military history when its South Alberta Regiment units closed the Falaise Pocket.

This Commonwealth battlegroup features a British Army TO&E but is mostly equipped with American-made materiel. A distinctive feature is its strong recon, fielding the Sherman V S.A.R. recon tanks, accompanied by Scout S.A.R. squads, both with the Tank Rider trait. The 4th Canadian Armoured can also deploy Otter Mk1 and Mk2 armored cars, plus Mot. Rifles (late) squads in C15TA wheeled APCs. Air support is provided by Canadian airmen in their Typhoon and Mosquito fighter and fighter-bombers, as well as U.S. P-38J fighters and B-26B-4-MA bombers.

The 4th Canadian Armoured Division is a balanced formation with potent tank, infantry, and artillery forces.

French Demi-Brigade SAS

The amalgamated Demi-Brigade SAS battlegroup covers the French special forces who dropped in the Brittany peninsula just before D-Day. Together with local French partisans, in a successful campaign, the SAS tied down as many German troops as possible. This lasted until Patton’s tanks joined up in the summer of 1944.

The DBSAS builds its strength over time, starting with light commandos and partisans, such as SAS, Jedburgh or FFI Franc-Tireurs squads. Select heavier FFI units, including a captured Jagdpanzer IV, Canon 47mm Mle. 1937, can deploy later with the first U.S. Army elements. Allied air power also grows, beginning with Lysanders and a handful of American P-47s to A-20G bombers, P-38J, and even the P-61A Black Widow.

The DBSAS is an elite but very light battlegroup with potent air support, needing time to wield its power on the battlefield.

Axis Divisions

1. SS-Panzer "LSSAH"

The 1. SS-Panzer “Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler” started as the Führer’s personal bodyguard, eventually becoming a full Panzerdivision. Participating in almost all major World War II campaigns, later combat in Italy and the Eastern Front prepared it well for deployment to Normandy. Battle-mauled and in decline compared to its 1943 peak, the elite LSSAH could still count on plentiful experienced units and heavy equipment when countering the Allied landings.

The Axis tank division is well-equipped with Panther, Panzer IV, and StuG III G units, though it lacks lighter armored recon vehicles and air cover. The armored vehicles are backed by veteran LSSAH infantry in various roles, from recon to leaders and panzergrenadiers, all featuring the Fanatical trait.

The 1. SS-Panzerdivision “LSSAH” is a versatile armored division that can quickly switch between defensive and offensive operations.

2. Panzerdivision

The 2. Panzerdivision was one of the three original Wehrmacht tank divisions. With a long and illustrious combat history, the formation fought in almost all of the war's major campaigns. Sent for refit in France, after the D-Day landings, its forces were committed to the campaign one by one, where they were much feared by the Allies.

The paragon of the Panzerwaffe bestows one level of experience on all its core troops, but many can only deploy at set times. Heavy and new equipment include Puma armored cars, Jagdpanzer IV tank destroyers, Borgward IV remote-controlled bombs, plus the usual complement of Panzer IV, Panther, Gepard anti-air unit, and Hummel and Wespe self-propelled artillery pieces.

The 2. Panzerdivision is a powerful tank formation that needs time to deploy its full arsenal of heavy-hitting armored units.

9. Panzerdivision

The 9. Panzerdivision was created in 1940, taking part in the invasion of the Netherlands, Belgium, and France before ending up on the Eastern Front. In 1944, it was moved to France. After D-Day, the formation was belatedly transferred to Normandy, where it played no major part in the fighting, only to be nearly destroyed in the Falaise pocket.

The formation lacks half its assigned tanks, relying on recon and numerous light units. These include Luchs, as well as Sdkfz. 234/1 and 234/3, plus all remaining Aufk. Panzer I C and even two Tiger Es. Infantry is mixed, from regular Grenadier squads to second-line Grenadier (15W) and Kosaken.

The 9. Panzerdivision is closer to a mechanized infantry division, lacking heavy tank forces, instead balancing it with its infantry and recon units.

16. Luftwaffe-Feld-Division

The 16. Luftwaffe-Feld-Division was formed from excess Luftwaffe ground personnel in 1942. Mostly untrained and lacking heavy equipment, the battlegroup’s brief Normandy career ended in Operation Charnwood, when it was wiped out, the remains absorbed by 21. Panzerdivision.

The division’s key feature is its light and Disheartened Luftwaffe infantry squads. Artillery is entirely equipped with Soviet F-22 76,2mm and M-30 122mm guns. A unique element is the heavy support by the attached s.Panzer-Abteilung 503 with its Tiger Es and even Köningstiger, plus a few captured 17-Pdrs and even a lone Panzerjäger Firefly. Equally impressive are its anti-air units, from the modern Flak 41 88mm to Flakzwilling 37mm and NAG 500 trucks with Drilling 15mm machine guns.

The 16. Luftwaffe-Feld-Division fields extremes, from unmotivated infantry to some of the hardest-hitting armored and anti-air units available.

Festung Groß-Paris

Festung Groß-Paris was a “Fortress” formation designated by Hitler to defend Paris at all costs - even if it meant the city’s total destruction. The ad-hoc battlegroup was formed around the second-rate 325. Sicherungs-Division, reinforced by Flak-Brigade 1 and retreating German formations.Engaged in the Paris Uprising, Festungs Groß-Paris surrendered on August 25th, and contrary to orders, leaving the city intact.

The battlegroup fields a large variety of infantry, from Ersatztruppen Paris to the elite “Das Reich” Panzergrenadiers and French collaborationist Miliciens. Armor is limited to a handful Beute tanks and Tiger Es, Panthers, and Jagdpanzer IVs. Supporting arms include the Beo-Fi 156C artillery observer for a 600mm Karl-Gerät super-mortar. Older FW-190A-3 fighters are joined by a massive armada of Ju-88 and Ju-188 bombers.

Festung Groß-Paris is a versatile Panzergrenadier-like division with a wide range of troops, from infantry to armor.

91. Luftlande

The 91. Luftlande-Division was created late in the war in 1944, envisioned to be airlifted into a combat zone after a first wave of airborne troops had cleared the way. Instead, it served as a small stationary occupation formation. During the Battle of Normandy, the 91. Luftlande-Division absorbed a slew of smaller units and detachments. Quickly isolated, the division was destroyed in the Cherbourg pocket.

The battlegroup features a motley assortment of units, from the LL-Schützen and elite Fs.-Jäger infantry to older Beute R-35, H-39, and B2 tanks, and Stug III G assault guns. Artillery includes NbWfr. 42 300mm, Wurfrahmen UE630(f), and K.390(r) 122m howitzers.

The 91. Luftlande-Division has access to a rarely seen combination of units, from paratroopers to captured tanks. With balanced infantry, artillery, and anti-tank units, its battlefield conduct is like that of a light mechanized infantry division.

716. Infanterie

The 716. Infanterie-Division was part of the 15. Welle (wave) of mobilization, grouping men unfit for campaign duty into static garrison divisions. Posted on the Atlantikwall, engaged during Allied landings, the division was all but destroyed after a week of heavy fighting.

The division’s core is composed of Disheartened 15W infantry squads. A wide array of other infantry, from Kanalwache scouts to Italian Frewille and Kosaken squads, deploys in support. The division’s utter lack of tanks is unique, with only a few mechanized units available, such as the SPW 233, Sdkz 135/1 150mm artillery, or S307(f) PAK and Marder I H39 tank destroyers. The fast AR. 234B-2 is available as an unarmed recon.

The 716. Infanterie-Division is a defensive battlegroup with few armored vehicles but able to field a mass of infantry backed by lots of artillery.

Some Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 insights

Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44 contains 14 new divisions from five nations and 200 new units, including brand-new vehicle and plane models, voice acting, and new infantry model sets. The latest expansion will let players take the divisions solo, online, or cooperatively. Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy '44 ships for €19,99, the same price as previous Steel Division 2 “Tribute” expansions.

If you want to do some background reading or catch up on the many historical and gameplay insights we published on Steel Division: Tribute to Normandy ‘44, we have a handy forum post ready. It links to all divisional Versus posts, units, backgrounds, new Aces, and much more.

Be sure to check it out by following it here.

Note, Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 does not contain new maps. These are planned for future expansions.

See you on the battlefield

In response to some of the community’s questions: Steel Division 2: Tribute to Normandy ‘44 is one of our “division-focused” expansions. We are actively working on the next Steel Division 2 expansion in which an extensive Army General campaign will take center stage - the Battle of Dukla Pass.

Don’t be shy, join the Steel Division 2 community on our Steam forums. The latest Steel Division 2 news can also be encountered on our Instagram.

Looking for an online game? Visit the Discord server or Reddit page and get involved with the lively Steel Division 2 community!

See you on the battlefield, commanders!