Genre: Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Indie, Card & Board Game
Kards: The WWII Card Game
The Frontline Podcast: Unleashing "Brothers in Arms" - Episode 6
Hello, KARDS players!
We are thrilled to present the fourth episode of The Frontline: A KARDS Podcast, the official monthly series where 1939 Games developers review the latest and upcoming features in KARDS.
Get ready for an exclusive glimpse into the future of the game as we dive deep into conversations with the talented minds behind its development. The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and the KARDS YouTube channel.
Episode 6: Exploring the Summer Expansion - Brothers in Arms
In this engaging episode, KARDS Game Design Director Keli joins forces with esteemed player experts Jking7 and Berto Burrito, who secured 1st and 3rd place respectively in the 2022 World Championship. Alongside our knowledgeable host, Christo, they gather in a roundtable format to delve into the upcoming summer expansion of KARDS, aptly named "Brothers in Arms."
Prepare for an incredible surge in strategic possibilities as Brothers in Arms introduces 92 meticulously crafted new cards, elevating the tactical depth of KARDS to unprecedented heights.
This expansion enhances KARDS with a wave of innovation. At its core lies the new "Veteran" mechanic, allowing for strategic card upgrades that open up new avenues for gameplay. Furthermore, positioning strategies receive a significant boost, including enemy movement management. These fresh enhancements bring added depth, complexity, and excitement to your overall strategies
Mark your calendars for the official launch of Brothers in Arms on June 27th, with pre-orders getting delivered a few days prior on the 23rd of June.
Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kOWE5NjZlOC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-frontline-a-kards-podcast/id1669038687
We value your feedback!
Please share your thoughts on this fourth episode of the podcast and let us know if there are any specific questions or topics you would like us to cover in future episodes.
We're here to ensure that The Frontline continues to be a source of insightful content that resonates well with our amazing KARDS community.
KARDS Reinforcements: Brothers in Arms Brings Classic Mode and Free Care Package
KARDS, your beloved World War II-themed card game, is bracing for a thrilling transformation this summer. With the impending arrival of "Brothers in Arms" on June 27th, we're excited to shift the spotlight to two other massive game-changers: the introduction of "Classic" Mode and the generous dispatch of Care Packages.
Brace yourselves as we dive into this exciting new era of KARDS!
Classic Mode: Deploy Your Full Arsenal
The Brothers in Arms expansion brings with it an exciting new feature: the "Classic" game mode. This innovation offers a broadened battlefield where all cards come into play, even those relocated into the reserve pool.
This is a rare chance to revisit the vaults of KARDS history and rejuvenate your old favorites. Whether you're a battle-hardened general or a newly recruited private, Classic mode is a strategic playground where every card can make a monumental difference. It's time to rally your forces and command your complete arsenal like never before!
Free Packs for All: A Token of Gratitude
To celebrate the launch of Brothers in Arms, we're expressing our gratitude by giving away two free expansion card packs to every player at the arrival of the summer expansion! These packs are crammed with the firepower to fully immerse in and appreciate the new expansion. Unearth new strategies, assemble powerful units, and immerse yourself in the new strategies available in Brothers in Arms.
Care Package: Reinforcements for the Reserve Pool Shift
The arrival of Brothers in Arms also marks a strategic reshuffle. We're introducing significant changes to the reserve pool, shifting 90 cards out of the ladder and into Classic mode play. While this transition might present new strategic challenges, it’s a thrilling evolution, vital to sustaining the freshness and dynamism of KARDS.
To support you during this transition, we're dispatching a generous care package to every account created before June 1. This vital supply drop includes five core and three expansion card packs, ensuring your arsenal remains robust and versatile.
Pre-Order Bonanza: Brothers in Arms Awaits
The clock is ticking down to the official deployment of Brothers in Arms on June 27, but there's still time to save over 20% on the pre-orders! Ensure you're at the front line of this grand offensive, fully equipped with the latest cards to dictate your game.
What's more, pre-orders come in two unique flavors, each offering its own distinct advantages. Besides receiving a special card back and an emote, you'll also get a head start on exploring the intricacies of the expansion.
The Countdown to June 27 Begins
The introduction of Classic Mode, the imminent arrival of Brothers in Arms, and the delivery of your Care Package herald a new chapter in your KARDS journey. Embrace the thrill of historical strategy, reignite the fires of past battles, and gear up for an unforgettable summer expansion.
It's time to marshal your forces, commanders. The next battle is on the horizon!
A New Skirmish Event is Live
A new Skirmish event is live now until June 18th!
Here’s everything you need to know.
Skirmish is a special game mode, easily accessible from the main screen, where you play with an alternate set of rules. These rules vary between the Skirmishes; you’ll face something different at every new Skirmish event.
For this Skirmish, we have the following thrilling rules ready for you:
Choose your own deck to battle with.
Players start with an extra Kredit slot.
Skip drawing a card at the start of turn.
At the start of your turn, choose M18 HELLCAT, PANZER III-H or KV-1 1941 to add to your hand and set its cost to 2.
When you destroy an enemy unit during your turn, draw a card.
While these rules guarantee for some fun and exciting battles with completely different strategies, there is more: A fantastic prize for you in the form of a new Special card!
For your first win in this Skirmish, you will receive a full set of the new French bomber, the FARMAN F.222! Its most prominent feature is its special ability that lets you draw a card whenever this unit damages the enemy HQ.
Access the Skirmish event from the game's main screen to get an overview of the game mode, rules and prize.
This Skirmish is available from Friday, June 16 (12:00 GMT) until Sunday, June 18th at 18:00 GMT. Join this special event and win your Skirmish to claim victory and the spoils!
Please let us know what you think of the event in the comments below or on the KARDS Discord.
See you in the Skirmish this weekend!
KARDS Mobile Has Arrived!
KARDS mobile is live!
We are delighted to announce the long-awaited release of KARDS on mobile devices on June 6th, 2023!
You can now download KARDS from the official Google Play and Apple App stores, and enjoy the thrilling world of KARDS anytime, anywhere.
Additionally, we have a firework of in-game festivities ready for you to appropriately celebrate this milestone!
Google Play Store:
Apple App Store:
Cross Platform Play
Use the same account to play KARDS on PC or your mobile device!
To play KARDS on your mobile device, you’ll need to create a KARDS account inside the game client on the platform you currently play on. After you’ve entered your email and set a password for your KARDS account, you’ll be able to use those credentials to log into your KARDS account on both PC and mobile devices, progressing on the same player profile no matter which device you’re connecting from. Check out our guide here for step-by-step instructions on how to link your account: Account Linking Guide for KARDS and Cross-Platform Play
If you participated in our second mobile beta and created a KARDS account during that time, then you already have a KARDS account and will be able to log in to KARDS on your mobile device using those credentials. If you've since forgotten your password, we have a simple way for you to recover your password with our password recovery tool. On the mobile login page, click the “Forgot Password” link to start this process.
You’ll also be able to play with other KARDS players regardless of which platform you, or they, are connecting from!
Mobile Celebrations
Join us in celebrating the mobile launch - a major KARDS milestone!
Double XP Midweek Madness!
The exhilarating double XP midweek madness starts TODAY (June 6th) and lasts through June 8th! Make sure to grab this chance to progress at twice the normal rate!
D-Day Card Back
Seize the chance to claim your very own exclusive mobile D-Day card back! Log into the game on your mobile device and claim your free card back from the shop.
This card back is available for a limited time only, so make sure you log in and claim your copy today!
Special Shop Offer
Check out our special mobile offer, available in the shop now!
Requirements
To play KARDS mobile, our current system requirements are as follows:
Android 8
iOS 15
Recommended 4GB+ RAM
Enjoy playing KARDS on the go at any time! Join us on the KARDS Discord and let us know how you’re enjoying KARDS mobile!
June Update - Patch Notes
Hello everyone!
This June update contains several bug fixes.
Deck Builder and Collection Bugs
Fixed issue where sometimes the Collection would be scrollable while a card was selected.
Fixed issue with filter sounds misbehaving.
Fixed issue where repeatedly pressing enter while attempting to delete a deck before clicking the confirm button could lead to multiple decks being deleted.
Fixed issue where the ability list on a selected card in the Collection would flicker.
Fixed empty notification in deck builder after adding 13+ ally nation cards.
Draft Bugs
Fixed issue with text boxes overlapping nation icon in Draft deck menu when UI was scaled to 0.8 or 0.9.
Fixed issue where pop-up of the leftmost card was overlapped in the Draft deck builder menu.
Fixed issue with draft tutorial message showing up in the incorrect location.
Miscellaneous Bugs
Fixed issue where long emote names did not properly fit on the reward panel in the main menu.
Fixed issue with Surprise Attack animation not displaying correctly for both players.
Fixed wrong board texture displaying in USA training campaign.
Fixed issue with unit Destruction effect triggering twice following destruction of 152mm HOWITZER GUN.
Fixed issue where sometimes players couldn’t interact with cards in the mulligan.
That’s it for now. As always, we welcome your feedback in the comments below, or on the KARDS Discord.
A New Skirmish Event is Live
A new Skirmish event is live now until June 4th!
Here’s everything you need to know.
Skirmish is a special game mode in KARDS where you play with alternate rules. These rules vary; you’ll face something different at every Skirmish event. Read more about Skirmishes in our announcement blog New game mode: Skirmish.
In this Skirmish, each player randomly gets 1 of 5 decks to battle with. There’s one deck per main nation, each consisting of 39 copies of the Elite Order that adds 1 of 3 random Elite units to your hand (A Few Good Men, His Majesty’s Chosen, etc.). Additionally, players start with an extra Kredit slot.
The prize for your first victory in this Skirmish is a medkit!
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled and stay alert - you just might catch a glimpse of some cards from the upcoming expansion somewhere in this Skirmish!
Access the Skirmish event from the game's main screen to get an overview of the game mode, rules and prize.
This Skirmish is accessible from June 2nd at 12:00 GMT until Sunday, June 4th at 18:00 GMT.
Join this special event - win your Skirmish to claim victory and the spoils!
Please let us know what you think of the event in the comments below or on the KARDS Discord.
See you in the Skirmish this weekend!
KARDS Mobile: Release Imminent!
Greetings KARDS players!
Attention! KARDS mobile is on the horizon, preparing to deploy on D-Day: June 6th!
We are excited to share with you more details about the upcoming mobile release and the festivities we have in store for you!
Mobile Celebrations
KARDS mobile is a long anticipated major milestone which we plan to celebrate accordingly!
Double XP Midweek Madness
Embark on an accelerated ascent as we present an opportunity to amass experience at double the usual rate! Brace yourselves for the exhilarating double XP midweek madness, available between June 6th and June 8th.
D-Day Card Back
Seize the chance to claim your very own exclusive mobile D-Day card back by simply logging into your account from a mobile device!
Special Shop Offer
We’ll have a special offer for you in the in-game shop on June 6th - make sure to check it out!
Platforms
On June 6th, you’ll be able to download KARDS onto your mobile device through the Google Play Store or Apple App store. KARDS will be available on Android, iOS, as well as the existing PC platforms: Steam, Epic Games, Stove, and the native KARDS launcher.
Cross Platform Play
Get ready to play KARDS anywhere at any time!
You can use the same account to play KARDS on PC or your mobile device!
To play KARDS on your mobile device, you’ll need to create a KARDS account inside the game client on the platform you currently play on. After you’ve entered your email and set a password for your KARDS account, you’ll be able to use those credentials to log into your KARDS account on both PC and mobile devices, progressing on the same player profile no matter which device you’re connecting from. Note that this functionality will be enabled upon the mobile release.
If you participated in our second mobile beta and created a KARDS account during that time, then you already have a KARDS account and will be able to log in to KARDS on your mobile device using those credentials. If you've since forgotten your password, don't worry - we have a simple automated reset password process ready to go when mobile opens up.
You’ll also be able to play with other KARDS players regardless of which platform you, or they, are connecting from!
Japanese Localization Coming Soon!
We’ve also been hard at work to provide KARDS in more languages for our dedicated players. KARDS will be available in Japanese at the same time that the Brothers in Arms summer expansion becomes available on June 27th. Japanese will of course be accessible both on PC and mobile devices.
Make sure to mark June 6th in your calendars and join us for all the fun of the KARDS mobile release!
Community Spotlight: igrawiking and New Age Sigma
Greetings, commanders!
As the thunderous echoes of battle resound throughout the KARDS universe, we rally together once again to celebrate the unwavering spirit of our diverse player base. From all walks of life and with unique perspectives, you, the valiant warriors, forge bonds that transcend the digital battlefield. Through the recent relaunch of the KARDS Contributor Program, our aim is to provide added support to KARDS contributors, as well as to highlight the various contributions of KCP members to the KARDS community.
This month, our community spotlight illuminates two members of the KCP: igrawiking and New Age Sigma.
igrawiking
Background
igrawiking started playing KARDS in April 2020 and has racked up over 1500 hours in the game since then. igrawiking was drawn to the game as it provided an interesting WW2 setting for a card game, with interesting mechanics as well as a great range of cards and attractive board items to collect. The atmosphere and immersion achieved in KARDS is something he appreciates above all else.
igrawiking’s favorite card is the Soviet tank T-28. His favorite deck types are Soviet self-damage, Japanese self-discard, and he especially loves the Exile archetype.
Contributions
igrawiking provides a wide range of community contributions, creating videos and streams, running community tournaments, as well as managing fan pages and groups for the Russian KARDS community on VK and Telegram. He prepares posts regarding all things ongoing in KARDS and shares with Russian community members, as well as providing assistance to newer players. Join igrawiking’s Russian KARDS community group on Telegram!
igrawiking’s content is primarily designed to be interactive, focusing on viewer participation. One such example is his Spectator Draft stream series, where live viewers choose which cards he picks for his draft deck. The frequency of his releases of new content varies, depending on his availability and the level of creative inspiration at any given time. Check out igrawiking’s full playlist of KARDS videos here:
For new players in KARDS, igrawiking’s advice is: “Strive to become champions!”
New Age Sigma
Background
Sigma started playing KARDS in December 2020. A self-described history nerd with experience in deck building board games, he found that KARDS was a perfect fit. His favorite card is Island Hopping, with its ability to snowball into enormous units. His favorite deck types are American Air decks, whether paired with ramp or geared towards aggression. He also appreciates non-traditional frontline decks.
One of Sigma’s favorite things about KARDS are its community, offering camaraderie with inviting and supportive players. Sigma especially mentions Kohler7 as a fellow KARDS player who hopped into one of his first KARDS streams and coached him in the early days of his career. He enjoys being able to pay it forward by helping new players when they hop into his stream. His second favorite aspect of KARDS is the creativity allowed in deck building, allowing him the freedom to explore the game mechanics in any way he chooses.
Contributions
Sigma’s primary content is in the form of streams on his Twitch channel. He has also made some YouTube videos, with more in the works, but prefers the dynamic of laughing with chat in a live stream setting. Sigma describes his content as open to everyone. His streams focus on viewer engagement, where he freely answers any gameplay questions and encourages viewers to make suggestions. As Sigma says: “If you are a veteran in search of a break from meta decks, then buckle up, because we’re about to explore the goofiest concept I have thought of this week. Either way, we will get to celebrate the nail biters and laugh at my misplays together!”
Sigma typically streams on Sunday afternoons in the US Central time zone, with the occasional weekday stream. Join Sigma’s Discord server to make sure you’re notified about any upcoming streams!
Sigma recommends that new players find a way to interact more with the community, either through Discord or stream chats: “talking to folks will give you a much better understanding of the game and lead to more fun later. Ask questions and ask them often!”
We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know these contributors better and encourage you to check out their content! Make sure you stay tuned for next month, where we bring you another community spotlight featuring different KARDS contributors. Join us on the official KARDS Discord server and let us know if there’s anything you’d like to see us cover in these articles in the future!
The Frontline: A KARDS Podcast - Fifth Episode Available Now!
Hello KARDS players!
We are delighted to bring you the fifth episode of the official 1939 Games podcast - The Frontline: A KARDS Podcast! Join us and get an exclusive insight on the exciting future of KARDS in a discussion with the developers.
The KARDS Podcast is a monthly podcast featuring different KARDS developers in every episode. This is where you’ll hear about all the latest things in KARDS and get a closer look at the team behind KARDS, as we explore developers’ varied work and contributions to the constant development of the game. The podcast is conveniently available on Spotify, Apple and Google Podcasts, as well as on the KARDS YouTube channel and Bilibili.
The Frontline Episode 5: Brothers in Arms
In this fifth episode, KARDS Community Manager Elín and host Christo welcome Director of Game Design Keli to discuss the upcoming summer expansion, Brothers in Arms! Join us as we discuss the new mechanics and themes of the expansion, the cards that have already been revealed in the Kick-Off Announcement, the cards headed for the Reserve pool when the expansion is released, and even offer a sneak peek of more upcoming content!
Tune in Now!
Tune in to The Frontline podcast on the following platforms:
Join us on Discord, let us know what you think of this fifth podcast episode and if there are any particular questions or topics you’d like us to cover in the future!
Brothers in Arms: The KARDS Summer Expansion Arrives on June 27th!
Attention KARDS players!
The summer expansion, Brothers in Arms, arrives on June 27th!
We’re deploying an arsenal of 92 new cards and introducing the brand new Veteran mechanic! The Veteran mechanic adds a fresh layer of strategy, allowing designated units to rank up in battle, transforming into upgraded versions by meeting specific requirements. Circle June 27th in your calendars as that’s when Brothers in Arms rolls out!
Along with the new expansion we introduce the first full rotation, with 90 cards entering the Reserve pool at the same time as the expansion pre-orders go live. Want the intel on which cards are getting the transfer orders? Click here for the full briefing. Note that we’re dropping a one time care package in the form of some card packs from the new expansion to help you weather this shake-up. Claim your loot in-game when the expansion takes off!
Brothers in Arms is all set to redefine the battlefield on June 27th. Pre-orders are open now - secure your spot today!
Gear up for a thrilling strategic shake-up, it’s time to reshuffle the deck in KARDS!
Spoiler Season Kick-Off
We kick off the spoiler season right now with 12 exciting card reveals from the Brothers in Arms expansion!
Expect more reveals in the upcoming weeks as we unravel the thrilling cards and themes of this expansion. Cards may be revealed directly by the KARDS dev team or by the community!
Subscribe to our social media channels to stay up to date and never miss any reveals:
Especially make sure to join the KARDS Discord server to get first-hand information, discuss the revealed cards and their potential use in existing and new decks, and speculate about upcoming card reveals.
Tomorrow, May 26th, we’ll have a brand new episode of The Frontline Podcast featuring Keli, Director of Game Design, where we’ll discuss the upcoming expansion and show you some more of what’s up ahead!
Also make sure to tune in to the upcoming KARDS Special Operations broadcast on May 28th at 13:00 GMT on the KARDS Twitch Channel which is sure to feature some more exciting information!
Card Reveals
50. Infantry Regiment
The 50. INFANTRY REGIMENT is a German Infantry unit of Standard rarity with the Veteran ability. It costs 2 Kredits to play, 1 Kredit to operate, has 3 attack and 2 defense. The 50. INFANTRY REGIMENT becomes Veteran when it moves into the frontline. When it's Veteran, it has 4 attack, 3 defense, and gains the Ambush ability.
Historical Context
At the start of WWII the 50th Infantry Regiment was part of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Wehrmacht which took part in the invasion of Poland in 1939 and the invasion of France in 1940. In 1941 the regiment was transferred to the 111th Infantry Division to participate in Operation Barbarossa as part of Army Group South. The division fought around Kiev where it helped to trap and destroy the Soviet 37th Army before pushing eastwards. After the capture of Russian city Rostov-on-Don in 1941 they were forced to retreat and take up defensive positions. After some rest the 111th Infantry Division joined operation Case Blue with the 17th Army, which was a German summer offensive in 1942 with the goal of securing the Soviet oil fields in the Caucasus. Case Blue was a failure and ended with the withdrawal of the German forces and the 111th Division took up defensive positions which lasted until July 1943. After the German defeat at the Battle of Kursk in the summer of 1943 the division gradually rolled back to the west, defending various areas until it was eventually destroyed while defending Crimea. The last remnants were evacuated by ship in May 1944, and the division was disbanded.
327th PATHFINDERS
An Elite US Infantry unit, the 327th PATHFINDERS has 2 attack, 2 defense, costs 3 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate. Its deployment effect deals 2 damage to a unit and, if this destroys it, the 327th PATHFINDERS becomes Veteran. In its Veteran form, this unit has Blitz and the effect that at the start of your turn, a random enemy unit Retreats.
Historical Context
The Pathfinders of the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment were a specialized unit within the US Army during WWII. They were responsible for landing ahead of the main airborne forces to prepare and mark the landing zones for subsequent paratrooper drops or glider landings. The Pathfinders were trained to jump from aircraft or gliders and make their way to the designated landing zones. They would then set up beacons, signal lights, and other markers to guide the incoming aircraft. This was a crucial task, as accurate and timely delivery of troops and equipment was essential for the success of airborne operations. The 327th Glider Infantry Regiment played a vital role in several important operations during WWII, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy, the airborne assault during Operation Market Garden, and the Rhine River crossing during Operation Varsity. Additionally, in December 1944, the 327th was part of the 101st Airborne Division, which was hastily deployed to the Ardennes during the German offensive, known as the Battle of the Bulge. One of the most notable actions of the 327th Pathfinders during the battle was the defense of the town of Bastogne. For its action during the defense the regiment got its nickname “Bastogne Bulldogs”. After the Battle of the Bulge, the 327th Infantry fought in the Rhineland and Berchtesgaden offensives. Following the end of WWII, the regiment was deactivated on 30 November 1945.
STRONG BOND
The British Order STRONG BOND has the effect that a friendly ground unit gets Guard and: "Add a US 3-cost unit to your support line at the start of your turn". It costs 4 Kredits and is Standard rarity.
Historical Context
After the American Revolution in 1783 the UK recognized American independence and the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1785. Ever since the UK and the US have remained close partners. The UK-US relations at the start of WWII were complex as the Americans were divided on what the role of the nation should be in the war, or if it should interfere at all. However, public opinion changed, especially during the Battle of Britain, as it showed that the German war machine was not invincible, and by April 1941 a public poll showed that the majority of Americans were in favor of joining the war against the Axis. Finally the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, ended the debate once and for all and shortly after the US was at war with the Axis powers.
6th AIRLANDING BRIGADE
An Elite British Infantry unit, the 6th AIRLANDING BRIGADE has the Fury ability and the effect that when a friendly unit would deal 1 combat damage, it deals 3 instead. It has 1 attack, 4 defense, costs 2 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate.
Historical Context
The 6th Airlanding Brigade was an airborne infantry brigade of the British Army during WWII. The brigade was created in 1943 and was assigned to the 6th Airborne Division, nicknamed Red Devils, along with the 3rd and 5th Parachute Brigades. The 6th Airlanding Brigade was unique among British airborne units in that it was composed entirely of glider-borne troops. The brigade consisted of three battalions of infantry, as well as supporting units such as engineers, medics, and anti-tank troops. The brigade saw action in several major operations during the war, including the Normandy landings in June 1944 and the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. During the Normandy landings, the brigade was tasked with securing the eastern flank of the invasion area and capturing several key bridges. At Arnhem, the brigade was tasked with securing the landing zones and holding bridges over the Rhine River. The 6th Airlanding Brigade suffered heavy losses during both operations, with many of its troops killed, wounded, or captured. However, the brigade's actions were critical in the success of these operations. After the war, the 6th Airlanding Brigade was disbanded.
49th KARACHEV
A Soviet Infantry unit of Limited rarity, the 49th KARACHEV has the Guard ability and, when an enemy unit becomes Veteran, deals 2 damage to it. It has 3 attack, 4 defense, costs 3 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate.
Historical Context
During WWII the 49th Guards Rifle Regiment was part of the 16th Guards Rifle Division, which was a highly decorated and elite infantry division of the Red Army during Great Patriotic War. It was formed in February 1942 and served in various fronts throughout the war. It was initially assigned to Kalinin Front and later transferred to Western Front's 30th Army where it took part in the struggle for the village of Polunino. It then fought in various battles and operations and was eventually reassigned to the 11th Guards Army, with which it served for the rest of the war. During the summer offensive against the German-held salient around Oryol, it assisted in the liberation of Karachev and received its name as an honorific. The division participated in the liberation of key cities like Orsha, Minsk, and Königsberg (today known as Kaliningrad), and was highly decorated for its actions. It remained in the Kaliningrad Oblast well after the war until it was finally disbanded in September 1960.
THE MIGHTY FALL
THE MIGHTY FALL is a Soviet Order of Limited rarity. It costs 3 Kredits to play and has the effect "Destroy target Veteran unit".
Historical Context
At the start of Operation Barbarossa (the German invasion of the Soviet Union), the Soviet Union and the Red Army had a huge disadvantage, militarily, productionally and technologically. However, at the start of 1943 they started gaining the upper hand in a series of significant turning points. This started with their victory in the Battle of Stalingrad in February 1943, followed by The Battle of Kursk in July 1943, and finally the Operation Bagration (June-August 1944). It's also important to note that the Soviet Union's ability to produce weapons and equipment on a massive scale, combined with its vast resources and manpower, was a crucial factor in their overall success. While Germany initially had the upper hand in certain technological aspects, the Soviet Union's determination, industrial capacity, and strategic planning allowed them to catch up and ultimately overcome Germany's technological and military advantages.
BATTLE VALOR
BATTLE VALOR is a Standard US Order that costs 5 Kredits to play. It has the effect that a target unit becomes Veteran if able, then gets +2 +4.
Historical Context
While it is difficult to provide precise numbers, machine gunners in bombers did contribute to shooting down enemy aircraft, especially when engaged in defensive actions. The primary objective of bomber gunners was to deter and suppress attacks rather than achieving high numbers of aerial victories. The role of bomber machine gunners was essential for the survival of the bomber crews and the success of their missions, even if their individual success rates in shooting down enemy planes were relatively modest. However, heroic actions of USAF machine gunners during WWII are numerous and what follows is an example. Staff Sergeant Maynard Harrison Smith served as a ball turret gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress during World War II. On May 1, 1943, his aircraft was attacked by numerous German fighters during a mission over France. Smith's aircraft sustained heavy damage, and the tail section was severed, leaving the plane in imminent danger of breaking apart. Despite this, Smith remained at his position, providing covering fire and protecting the crew. He refused to abandon his post until ordered to do so as the aircraft began to disintegrate. Smith's dedication and selflessness earned him the Medal of Honor.
FIELD HOSPITAL
FIELD HOSPITAL is a Special US Order that costs 4 Kredits to play. When played, you fully repair each friendly unit and draw a card for each unit repaired.
Historical Context
During WWII, US field hospitals played a crucial role in providing medical care to wounded soldiers on the front lines. These field hospitals were mobile units designed to provide emergency medical treatment and stabilize injured personnel before they could be transported to more extensive medical facilities. The United States made several notable contributions and innovations in the field of military medicine during the war. For example the first trials of Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH) were established by the U.S. Army, which was a significant innovation. These mobile surgical hospitals brought advanced surgical capabilities closer to the front lines, reducing the time between injury and surgical intervention. Another innovation was Blood Plasma and Component Therapy which the US military played a crucial role in developing and implementing during the war. This development significantly improved the management of casualties and contributed to better outcomes. It's important to note that while the United States made significant contributions in these areas, other nations also made important advancements in military medicine during WWII. Also note that many medical professionals and researchers from various countries worked together and independently to improve the care and outcomes for wounded soldiers.
MATSUMOTO REGIMENT
The MATSUMOTO REGIMENT is a Special Japanese Infantry unit that costs 3 Kredits to deploy and 0 Kredits to operate. It has 3 attack, 4 defense, and deals 1 damage to the enemy HQ when a Destruction effect triggers.
Historical Context
The 50th Infantry Regiment (Matsumoto) was a unit of the 29th Division of the Imperial Japanese Army, which was active from 1941-1945. From 1941 the 29th division was tasked with the defense of the Liaoyang area in Manchukuo state of Manchuria, but in 1944 the majority of the division, which consisted of the 18th and 38th infantry regiments, was deployed to Guam island along with the 48th Independent Mixed Brigade. Meanwhile, smaller units were dispatched to Tinian and Rota islands. The Japanese garrison on Tinian consisted of approximately 9,000 soldiers, including the 50th Infantry Regiment and the 29th tank company, who were well-fortified and prepared for the American invasion. The Battle of Tinian began on July 24, 1944, with a massive bombardment of the island by the US Navy and Army Air Forces. The Japanese defenders, however, remained dug in and refused to surrender despite overwhelming odds. By 30 July the remnants of the defenders were holed up in caves and ravines on the south portion of the island. Realizing the futility of further resistance, Colonel Ogata ordered his forces to launch a massive banzai charge. This desperate attempt resulted in heavy casualties for the Japanese, but the battle continued for a few more days until organized resistance was effectively crushed on 3 August 1944. Only about 200 men of the Japanese garrison survived the fighting.
56th RECON
56th RECON is a Japanese Infantry unit of Limited rarity. It has 2 attack, 1 defense, costs 1 Kredit to play and 1 Kredit to operate. It has Intel 1 and the Destruction effect to deal 1 damage to each enemy unit.
Historical Context
The 56th Reconnaissance Regiment was a motorized unit of the 56th Division of the Imperial Japanese Army, which was active 1940-1945. Initially, the 56th Division was intended as reinforcements for the Japanese invasion of Malaya but was attached to the 25th Army and sent to Burma in March 1942. The Division played a significant role in the Battle of Toungoo, where it linked with the 55th Division, and forced the Chinese to evacuate the city, paving the way to the east. The 56th Division defeated the Chinese 6th Corps in several battles, including Mawchi, Bawlake, Bato, Taunggyi, and Loikaw. It advanced north through the Shan States, took the city of Lashio, and cut off much of the local Chinese Army from China, forcing the Allies to evacuate Burma. After May 1942, the 56th Division mostly performed garrison duties on the Yunnan border. In January 1944, the division participated in the Battle of Northern Burma and Western Yunnan campaign, where it played a significant role in shattering Merrill's Marauders in the Siege of Myitkyina and delaying the Chinese forces during the Battle of Mount Song. The Division suffered heavy losses and was removed from the front line in October 1944. On the day of the surrender of Japan, August 15, 1945, the division was stationed on the border between South Burma and Thailand.
YAK 9 PL
The YAK 9 PL is a Special Polish Fighter with Exile and Blitz abilities and grants Blitz to your Exile units. It has 3 attack, 5 defense, costs 4 Kredits to play and 2 Kredits to operate.
Historical Context
The Yakovlev Yak 9 was a Soviet fighter aircraft that played a significant role in the Soviet Air Force during WWII. It was a development of the earlier Yak 7 and Yak 1 fighters, incorporating improvements and modifications based on combat experience.The Yak 9 was designed by Alexander Yakovlev and entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1942. It was a versatile aircraft that saw action in various roles, including air superiority, ground attack, and escort missions. The aircraft was known for its agility, robustness, and adaptability. While the majority of the Polish Air Force was disbanded or incorporated into foreign air forces after the German and Soviet occupations of Poland, a significant number of Polish pilots managed to escape and join Allied air forces. Some of these Polish pilots, while serving in Soviet-controlled units, flew Soviet aircraft, including the Yak 9. The most notable example is the Air Force of the Polish Army which was created alongside the Polish People's Army, a subordinate to the Red Army. It was the primary Polish air force formation within the Polish Armed Forces in the East during WWII.
FIAT CR.32
The FIAT CR.32 is a Limited Italian Fighter that costs 2 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate. It has 1 attack, 3 defense, and the effect that when your HQ gains defense, you fully repair a random friendly unit.
Historical Context
The FIAT CR.32 was an Italian biplane fighter aircraft that saw significant use during the interwar period and the early years of WWII. It was designed by the Italian manufacturer FIAT and entered service with the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) in 1933.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the FIAT CR.32 gained its reputation as one of the best biplane fighters of its time. It demonstrated excellent maneuverability and agility, making it highly effective in aerial combat. Its robust construction and good diving capabilities also added to its combat ability. However, by the outbreak of WWII in 1939, the FIAT CR.32 was already becoming outdated compared to the monoplane fighters that other nations were deploying. It was gradually phased out of frontline service in the Regia Aeronautica, being replaced by more modern aircraft like the Macchi C.200 and C.202. During the early stages of the war, the FIAT CR.32 continued to see limited use by Italy and its allies and it was used in various combat theaters, including North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. By the mid-1940s, the FIAT CR.32 was mostly relegated to secondary roles, such as training, reconnaissance, and ground-attack missions. It was gradually phased out of service as more advanced aircraft became available. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that a few CR.32s remained in use until the end of the war in 1945.
Brothers in Arms Reveal Summary
Brothers in Arms has 92 new cards in total. Over the course of the next few weeks, leading up to the expansion release on June 27th, more and more cards will be revealed!
Pre-orders for the Brothers in Arms expansion are available in the in-game shop now!
Don’t miss out on our two special bundles, packed with card packs from the upcoming expansion at a hard-to-resist discount. Whether you’re an old hand or a fresh recruit, you’ll appreciate the bonus loot included in both bundles: the exclusive Brothers in Arms cardback and the stirring “Rendezvous with Destiny” emote, echoing the powerful motto of the US Army 101st Airborne Division.
All packs in pre-order bundles become available on June 23rd, a whole five days before the official release.
Keep your eyes on the horizon - we’ll be revealing new cards almost daily throughout the spoiler season. Stay locked in for more exciting reveals in the lead up to the launch!
Hello, KARDS players!
To celebrate the launch of Brothers in Arms, we're expressing our gratitude by giving away two free expansion card packs to every player at the arrival of the summer expansion! These packs are crammed with the firepower to fully immerse in and appreciate the new expansion. Unearth new strategies, assemble powerful units, and immerse yourself in the new strategies available in Brothers in Arms.
The clock is ticking down to the official deployment of Brothers in Arms on June 27, but there's still time to save over 20% on the pre-orders! Ensure you're at the front line of this grand offensive, fully equipped with the latest cards to dictate your game.
