World of Tanks deploys for free on Xbox One

By Danny Cowan July 29, 2015

world of tanks released for xbox one worldoftanks xbo header — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Wargaming’s free-to-play, massively multiplayer online action game World of Tanks is now available for the Xbox One, following up on a successful launch last year on the Xbox 360.

Outfitting players with an array of World War II-era armored vehicles from America, Germany, and the Soviet Union, World of Tanks is a team-based shooter with strategic elements. Players compete in a series of sprawling battles featuring up to 15 opponents on each side.

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Released in 2011, the PC version of World of Tanks is built on a free-to-play structure that allows players to purchase in-game tanks, weapons, and upgrades using real-world cash. According to developer Wargaming, World of Tanks surpassed 60 million users in 2013, putting it in close competition with established MMOs. A 2014 report found that World of Tanks pulls in more microtransaction revenue than Blizzard’s long-running MMORPG World of Warcraft.

A revamped version, World of Tanks: Xbox 360 Edition, hit Xbox Live Arcade last year with tweaked gameplay and multiplayer functionality. The Xbox 360 edition of World of Tanks uses its own dedicated servers and requires separate user accounts, ensuring that multiplayer matches are limited to console players.

The Xbox One version of World of Tanks boasts cross-platform multiplayer functionality, and allows players to transfer their stats and progress from the Xbox 360 version using a linked account. The new port also introduces an offline training mode, Proving Grounds, that challenges players to navigate environmental challenges and take down AI opponents.

Wargaming additionally operates an iOS and Android adaptation, World of Tanks Blitz, which hit digital storefronts in 2013. Other Wargaming properties include the flight combat MMO World of Warplanes and the naval-themed World of Warships.

The Xbox One version of World of Tanks is available as a free download, and players who pre-loaded the title will receive access to the exclusive T1E6-X1 light tank.

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