Gaijin Entertainment has confirmed that the infantry combat mode in War Thunder has entered early testing. This mode is being developed by an independent internal team, and updates and improvements to existing modes will not be affected.
War Thunder initially focused on air combat simulation, later gradually adding tanks, warships, and other content. The game has been running for nearly 15 years, with about 10 years since the release of version 1.0. Gaijin stated that incorporating infantry into the game has always been a logical step in its overall development direction, and players have consistently requested this feature.
However, infantry gameplay requires establishing a relatively independent game system, with a development difficulty comparable to creating a new game within the existing one. The internal team responsible for this mode consists of professionals with experience in shooter games, while War Thunder's producer and other core members will oversee development to ensure the new content maintains the game's original style, authenticity, and level of detail.
The balance between vehicles and infantry will be based on real-world battlefield dynamics. Gaijin pointed out that armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles are designed to operate in coordination with infantry, and weapons such as machine guns and high-explosive shells have their respective uses. The team's long-term goal is to enable all ground vehicles in the game to participate in infantry combat.
Map design is one of the main challenges currently facing this mode. Maps must provide sufficient cover for soldiers carrying anti-tank weapons, giving them a chance to fight against vehicles, while also retaining more open areas where vehicles can escape ambushes and utilize their firepower.
Gaijin also reviewed balance adjustments made during the game's long-term operation. The team believes that raising or lowering a vehicle's battle rating by just one tier can pit it against completely different opponents. Previously, a "Last Man Standing" mechanic was added based on player suggestions, allowing a tank to remain operational with only one surviving crew member. However, this mechanic slowed down the overall pace of combat and was ultimately removed.
Currently, the infantry mode is still in early testing. Gaijin stated that they will not rush the process, and no specific timeline has been announced for further opening up of the mode at this stage.