World of Tanks – Update 8.6 Brings All The Artillery

Wargaming have released the latest update to their blockbuster free to play MMO World of Tanks. Update 8.6 is now live and brings with it a lot of hefty changes from tweaking the core game mechanics to adding new Self-Propelled Guns (SPGs) and map updates including a new Korean location.

Here’s a summary:

Tier changes: Tier 8 Self-Propelled Guns (SPGs) have been promoted to top tiers allowing a line of new vehicles to fill the gap.

Formula changes: Average penetration, standard deviation for accuracy and damage roll formulas have all been updated.

Map updates: Airfield, Widepark and Murovanka have been updated with the new rendering engine. Mines, Redshire and Lakeville now feature the Encounter mode.

Camouflage system: Completely reworked so camouflage is now class-based with patterns and nets adding to a tank’s basic camo value. There are also new patterns for German, French, America and Soviet tanks.

New map: Called Sacred Valley and set in Korea complete with mountains.

New British tank: A33 Excelsior with a great rate of fire but a pathetic view range of only 350m.

New SPGs:

• Soviet Tree – Tier 5 SU-122A and Tier 7 SU-14-1
• German Tree – Tier 2 G.Pz. Mk. VI (e), Tier 4 Pz.Sfl.IVb (Wespe modification) and Tier 8 GW Tiger (P)
• American Tree – Tier 5 M44 and Tier 9 M53/M55
• French Tree – Tier 4 AMX 105 AM mle and Tier 9 Bat.-Châtillon 155 55

Misc: Engagement ranges and spotting distances have been increased and tank company requirements have been rebalanced. HEAT shells effect and experience gain process have also changed.

World of Tanks is available now for PC.