NICOSIA, Cyprus, March 18, 2025 — Wishlist Games is excited to launch a fresh battleground in World War 3 — the Ruins of Gobi map and Stronghold mode! This update introduces fast-paced 8v8 skirmishes on a brand-new desert map, offering new players the perfect “boot camp” arena while giving veterans a fresh challenge to test their skills. Now available exclusively on Steam and the Wishlist Games Launcher.
The press kit is available here.
Ruins of Gobi
The new Ruins of Gobi map is designed to be simple and easy to learn, specifically for new players. Its goal is to gradually introduce them to game mechanics: starting with smaller maps and simplified rules, then progressing to larger maps with more complex rules and highly skilled opponents. The "mirror" layout of the map ensures that both teams have identical routes and dimensions, though each side has unique design elements. The WW3 team also used this opportunity to add a layer of storytelling. What happened here before the war? That’s for players to uncover as they fight for control.
Stronghold Mode
The new 8x8 Stronghold mode offers a streamlined, objective-driven combat experience. Teams fight for control over a single, fortified capture point with no Strikes, no Vehicles, and a reduced player count. The focus shifts entirely to gunplay, positioning, and coordination. This mode serves as both an onboarding arena for new players and an infantry-focused combat for vets. One objective, one fight, and only the strongest squad survives.
Update Features
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Designed for New Players
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Progressive Gameplay Approach
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Tactical Vertical Combat
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Balanced Layout for Fair Fights
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Flexible Combat Options
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Environmental storytelling elements
Bigger Webshop
Based on player feedback, we’ve revamped the shop, significantly expanding its selection while removing strict time limits. We've added the most popular weapons and equipment so the players have more options at their fingertips. Now, with a much slower rotation, players have more time to pick up items like the MSBS-N Battle Rifle, WSW-15 Assault Rifle, and exclusive skins without feeling rushed.
Message from CEO
Wishlist Games CEO, Alexey Larionov shares his thoughts on the new update:
“The Ruins of Gobi map and Stronghold mode mark an exciting step in making World War 3 more accessible to new players while offering veterans a fresh and fast-paced experience. We can’t wait to see how players adapt to the new battleground and look forward to their feedback”.
The Road Ahead - Evolution of Matchmaking
Our next step is to introduce a new matchmaking system designed to minimize wait times and improve team balance. New players will be matched with others at a similar skill level, allowing them to learn the game at their own pace and not face fierce competition right out of the gate. And later, when they’re ready for a challenge, they will be introduced to the “big boys” matches. More details coming soon!
This is just the beginning. As World War 3 evolves, the Ruins of Gobi and Stronghold mode will continue to receive adjustments based on player feedback.
About World War 3
World War 3 is a free-to-play tactical online multiplayer first-person shooter developed and published by Wishlist Games and The 4 Winds for Microsoft Windows. Players engage in thrilling, team-based skirmishes by fighting on the ground, driving tanks and vehicles, utilizing drones to survey the battlefield, and calling in tactical strikes for maximum damage. Up to 40 players can battle in two core game modes, Tactical Ops and Deathmatch, with matches fought on a range of stunning, realistic maps. Squad up and take the fight from the streets of Warsaw, Berlin, Moscow, and Polyarny, to the outskirts of Smolensk and beyond!
Wishlist Games (WLG) is an independent European publisher and developer, known for its work on Armored Warfare and World War 3. Headquartered in Cyprus, the company boasts a diverse team of over 50 employees from countries all over the world. Many of the team members have contributed to globally renowned projects like World of Warcraft, PUBG Mobile, World of Tanks, Total War: Arena, The Finals, Cyberpunk 2077, and many more. WLG specializes in developing and publishing large-scale multiplayer projects that engage millions of players worldwide. As the company continues to grow, it remains committed to delivering tactical combat experiences that empower creativity, freedom, and fun for a global gaming community.
Media Contacts
pr@wishlistgames.com