CRS is stomping down on the WWIIOL gas pedal by scheduling two major game updates before the end of 2010. More than ever, we are counting on our amazing community of players to support and more quickly advance the game. Now is the time to join with the many others who have shown their support. Help by making a "Development Support Contribution."

Over the past 9 years we've continued the development of WWII Online (aka Battleground Europe) bringing over 150 vehicles and weapons, a huge terrain filled with thousands of objects, advanced game play systems and features and expanded the play of many parts of the game. Our huge game world update in 1.31 offers more varied terrain and a new weather system. Our next release will bring the first implementation of player-placed objects- allowing players to "build" objects on the terrain instead of being restricted to static objects. We're sure many players are already imagining how PPOs could be extended in the future with objects like mine fields, forward bases, landing craft... the possibilities are endless.

... players are already imagining how PPOs could be extended in the future with objects like mine fields, forward bases, landing craft...

With the recent development preview, we've announced a big update to the 3rd person infantry part of the game. We're replacing virtually every part of 3rd person infantry including models, textures, animations and more. We're refining the infantry damage model to open the door for even better combat play. This update represents one of the last graphics related features on our "Wish List" and in 2011 our attention will be turning to improving squad features, weapons/variants and much more. Of course we continue our work to address outstanding bugs & issues on a priority basis.

... in 2011 our attention will be turning to improving squad features, weapons/variants and much more.

Developing and operating this unique and special game means we will never appeal to the gaming masses. We won't ever compete with the EQs, WoWs, SWGs or Farmvilles of the world. We've accepted and embraced the nature of developing a hard-core, WWII, simulation-style MMO and we love it! You will never find a group of folks more passionate about this genre or the design principles on which we rely than Cornered Rat Software. You won't find a community of players who have more dedication either.

Since we launched the BUILDERS program back in 2003, many players have shown their support and dedication for the future of the game by committing to the long term. The result of this outpouring has partially fueled our ability to fund necessary expansion, tools and staff needed to keep delivering on the promise of WWII Online. Most recently we had a number of players ask to further their support and so we created the Platinum Builder account. It's doubtful you will find an example of player-support like that for WWII Online, for any other project in the long history of PC gaming.

Our last price increase was almost 6 years ago and we have never charged for an update or feature set- no matter how big or small.

This kind of community involvement not only helped us with the required resources for taking big bites out of the design plan, it has helped us avoid any price increases in the game service. Our last price increase was almost 6 years ago and we have never charged for an update or feature set- no matter how big or small. We are feeling the pinch from all around as our service providers are forced to implement price hikes, we've had rising staff costs due to insurance premium increases and we've had to roll over hardware for more modern equipment in order to continue our 99% server uptime record. Most recently we've had to acquire new software and license material for our 3rd person update- in part to reduce the length of time it takes to add it into the game.

This is your opportunity to endorse the unique project called WWII Online. Help us fuel the rapid development of new features- even if your favorite "wish list" item isn't coming in the short term. There are many ways to mark yourself as one of the many community supporters we are so fortunate to have. Our goal is to have 100% participation by the community and ensure our long-lasting commitment to WWIIOL development projects for years to come.

Our goal is to have 100% participation by the community and ensure our long-lasting commitment to WWIIOL development projects for years to come.

We hope that you will continue to enjoy all the great gaming and community experiences that WWII Online brings today and in the future.  
 
Sincerely,  
 
The Rats