Company of Heroes

If you're into intense, strategic multiplayer games, you've probably heard of Company of Heroes. Developed by Relic Entertainment and originally published by THQ, this real time strategy gem first hit the scene on Microsoft Windows and later made its way to PlayStation 2. It’s not just any RTS it’s the game that kicked off the beloved Company of Heroes series, pulling players into an alternate history of World War II where the Allies come out on top against the Nazis.

What really sets Company of Heroes apart is its gripping setting. The game jumps forward to a world where the U.S. has fallen under Nazi control after WWII, and the Allies are fighting to take back Europe. You step into the boots of Private First Class Joseph "JJ" LaRue, a memorable character from the U.S. Army, leading squads and making tactical decisions that shape the outcome of battles. And the best part? You can grab the game for free from THQ’s official site, with a demo available too. Even if you’re offline, a patched version from September 2021 lets you dive right in.

Whether you play on Microsoft Windows or through Steam, Company of Heroes delivers a rich experience. You get to choose from four unique heroes, each bringing their own flavor to the fight: the gritty Normandy Invasion Veteran, the explosive German Stuka Dive Specialist, the agile British Spitfire Advance, and the fierce Italian Focke Wulf FW 190 Pilot. With two full campaigns to pick from, plus multiplayer modes like Defense, Offensive, Supply and Escort, and the fan favorite Combined Campaign, there’s always something new to master. It’s no wonder this game has built such a dedicated community over the years.