Men of War gets autumn expansion

WWII RTS Men of War is to expand this autumn with Red Tide, a standalone effort giving the player charge of a bunch of Soviet marines called the Black Coats.

We're reliably informed that 1C's game is one of the best current strategy titles on the market. We may even play it to find out for ourselves. We're that intrigued.

There's a press release for Red Tide after the break.

Stand-Alone Expansion to the Critical Hit RTS Men of War

MOSCOW, Russia - June 25, 2009 - Leading Eastern and Central European publisher 1C Company is excited to announce the development of Men of War: Red Tide game. The stand-alone expansion to the critical hit RTS Men of War, Men of War: Red Tide introduces a new story driven campaign based on the writings of Soviet scribe Alexander Zorich and dozens of new or upgraded units and weapons. Men of War: Red Tide will not require the original Men of War to play.

Men of War: Red Tide is a stunning mixture of RTS and a third-person action that introduces a new fighting force known for its brutal efficiency during the height of World War II. Played out across more than 20 missions, Men of War: Red Tide has players take command of the feared "Black Coats", the nickname given to Soviet Marines, an elite combat group specializing in engagements near the shoreline. The player has direct control of new game units including the Black Coats, new tanks, self-propelled guns, armored trains, landing craft, artillery and new enemy emplaced weapons to capture and use. New air support options include new fighters, bombers, hydroplanes; cruisers, destroyers and gun boats which provide naval fire support.

Fighting during the Black Sea Campaigns of WWII, history buffs and WWII aficionados will recognize theaters of battle such as Odessa, Sevastopol, Theodosia, Eltingen, Nikolaev and Constanta.

Men of War: Red Tide will be available at North American retail outlets and for digital download this fall.