I usually consider World of Tanks none of my business. Aside from a brief window over a decade ago, Wargaming's treads-based shooter turned me off with aggressive monetization that favors players with deep pockets. However, this new World of Tanks hero shooter, World of Tanks: Heat, has managed to catch my attention during its current closed beta.

It wasn't even on my radar a week ago, but so far, it is a blast. I call the game "adjacent" to a traditional shooter because while it features abilities and ultimates, it retains core simulation mechanics under the hood. Location damage is modeled down to individual armor plates, where impact angle and ammo penetration determine if a shell glances off or immobilizes your tank.

A New Era of Tactical Combat

The setting for Heat is an "alternate post-WW2 timeline shaped by rapid scientific progress and global cooperation." This fantastical tone allows for much more "instant action" than the original's plodding matches.

I recently loaded into a 5v5 Kill Confirmed match—a mode straight out of Call of Duty—and pressed F to summon a Reinhardt-like energy shield. As an enemy tank tried to outmaneuver me, a teammate sniped their fuel tank from a mile away, collecting their dog tag instantly.

Mastering the World of Tanks Hero Shooter Mechanics

Success in this World of Tanks hero shooter requires a different rhythm than typical arena shooters. Because you cannot simply leap around corners or slide into cover, the game is defined by positioning and timing. To win, you must focus on:

  • Protecting critical components like fuel tanks, ammo bays, and crew chambers.
  • Utilizing effective flanking maneuvers.
  • Making yourself the smallest possible target to avoid incoming fire.

The smaller arenas and quick respawns give the game a "gladiatorial" pace. It is a massive departure from my memories of hiding in bushes while being shelled by artillery from kilometers away.

High-Octane Chaos and Goofy Physics

The game features some incredibly satisfying moments, like the "critical hit" accompanied by a gratifying "ding." Triggering an ultimate even plays a cutscene where my agent, Chopper, calls in an artillery strike from inside the tank.

At times, the physics are delightfully ridiculous. I recently flanked a team by climbing an aircraft carrier and shot an enemy while barrel-rolling off the upper deck. My tank bounced 12 feet into the air and took zero damage from the fall.

How to Join the Closed Beta

There is a full progression system where you can level up tanks and equip different modifiers. While much of this isn't present in the current beta, there is still time for Wargaming to potentially muck it up with heavy monetization.

If you want to experience this World of Tanks hero shooter for yourself, sign-ups for the closed beta are available on Steam for just a few more days.