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[MrVic]

                


World of Tanks Newsletter Volume #10

Welcome to the World of Tanks Newsletter! said:

Our goal is to weekly update with news events, new information on current issues, and interesting articles!
If you think you have a story or article that would fit in well submit the article to MrVic via PM on the WoT boards.
We plan to add some reporters/writers so submit your entries or ideas and how you might like to contribute!

Also this week a look behind the scenes of the nuts and bolts of the World of Tanks Newsletter!
Below is the edit display of a last weeks newsletter.  Goes to show how easy it is to mess up a link

Spoiler

[noparse]
[img]http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/8060/titlesection.png[/img]

[u]World of Tanks Newsletter Volume #9[/u]

[quote name='Welcome to the World of Tanks Newsletter!']Our goal is to weekly update with news events, new information on current issues, and interesting articles!
If you think you have a story or article that would fit in well submit the article to MrVic via PM on the WoT boards.
We plan to add some reporters/writers so submit your entries and how you might like to contribute!
[/quote]


[img]http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/4428/devcorner.png[/img]
[quote name='Dev Corner']

[b]Recent interview posted in the Developers Blog section [/b]

[size="5"][u][b]“Vive la France”[/b][/u][/size]
[spoiler]
Mighty armored vehicles of the USSR, Germany and the USA are well known among our players. But the project still keeps developing. In the nearest future our players will have the opportunity to get acquainted with more unusual and little-known armored vehicles. So, the French Tank Tree is coming!

Andrew Medvedev,  Wargamming.net Historical Consultant, and Sergey Burkatovskiy, World of Tanks Lead Game Designer, shared information about characteristics and features of French vehicles and what players should expect of them.

[b]- Armored vehicles of the Great Tank Powers – the USSR, Germany and the USA - are already represented in World of Tanks. Why did you choose the French as the next nation to be introduced in World of Tanks?[/b]

[b]Andrew Medvedev:[/b] Certainly, the British are the pioneers in the tank building sphere, but it were French who started building of their own vehicles after British. By the end of the World War I, French army had the largest park of armored vehicles in the world. And it was the French tank Reno FT-17 who was the “trend setter” in the tank fashion sphere for the entire period between WWI and WWII.

[url="http://blog.worldoftanks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Medvedev2.jpg"][img]http://blog.worldoftanks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Medvedev2-300x199.jpg[/img][/url]
Andrew Medvedev,  Wargamming.net Historical Consultant

France was defeated in 1940, but the reason for this defeat was neither lack of tanks to supply French tank troops, nor those tanks were of poor quality. French tank troops used ineffective tactics. Moreover, moral was low (first of all, among government and army leadership members). Nevertheless, French tank troops showed many examples of bravery and professionalism and their vehicles was a dangerous weapon, if was skillfully used. One can recall the successful conduct of hostilities by 4th armored division under Colonel De Gaulle command (later he will lead the Resistance). Thus, development and release of the French Tank Tree can be regarded as a tribute to the French soldiers.

[b]Sergey Burkatovskiy[/b][b]:[/b] We first met French tanks in the German Tank Tree, as captured by Germans. And they are used as training tanks. French armored vehicles were added because no one has done it before. They are poorly represented in games, though they deserve it.

[b]- Will [/b][b]French armored vehicles be [/b][b]represented comprehensively? Which vehicles will be available to players? What awaits us as a premium?[/b]

[b]Andrew Medvedev:[/b] Yes, French armoured vehicles will be represented comprehensively: light tanks, medium tanks, heavy tanks, tank destroyers of various types and SPGs – mainly experimental units, prototypes and German remakes of the French vehicles. In general, there will be a lot of experimental vehicles and German remakes.

I believe the presence of the superheavy multiturret tank FCM as the premium tank will be really interesting for players. It started to be developed during World War I, and we will try to retain its archaism. The tank will be less powered as a combat vehicle than Soviet and German vehicles of the same class.

[b]Sergey Burkatovskiy[b]:[/b][/b] Renault FT-17 will be the first vehicle of a player. One can call it “grandfather of the modern tank building” - the first tank in the world of the classic configuration. It may be comparable with the 1st level tanks of other Tank Trees; so, we can’t say that it will be either more or less complicated than its analogs.

[url="http://blog.worldoftanks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Byrkatovskiy2.jpg"][img]http://blog.worldoftanks.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Byrkatovskiy2-199x300.jpg[/img][/url]
Sergey Burkatovskiy, World of Tanks Lead Game Designer

As for the premium vehicles, it is worth mention that in addition to FCM one will have the vehicles, manufactured by the German on the basis of the French chassis, available. These are real military vehicles which, in fact, took part in military action. Moreover, Italian tanks will be represented in the game for the 1st time as trophy ones. An American “Sherman” is likely to be available as a premium vehicle. But such decision is rather predictable and not that interesting, therefore, it’s not among our top priorities.

- [b]In 1940, when France was defeated and occupied by the Germany, the development of the French tank building stopped for a certain period. How did you cope with this problem? Did[/b][b] [/b][b]you[/b][b] [/b][b]manage[/b][b] [/b][b]to[/b][b] [/b][b]conserve[/b][b] [/b][b]the[/b][b] [/b][b]game[/b][b] [/b][b]balance[/b][b]?

[/b][b]Andrew Medvedev[b]:[/b][/b] The French tank tree has a peculiar feature: there are plenty of experimental and prototype vehicles represented in it (about 50 percent of the total number). Besides, one will see German remakes of French vehicles that appeared during the war. Moreover, we decided to introduce some French vehicles that were manufactured in the post-war period (including the vehicles that were somehow inspired by the German tank building).

The French Tech Tree will give a player an opportunity to use really amazing vehicles. As for high level tanks and SPGs, they will be of great combat power.

[b]Sergey Burkatovskiy[b]:[/b][/b] When occupied by the Germans in 1940-1944, the French didn’t have an opportunity to develop their own military vehicles. Therefore, French vehicles in the game may be somehow subdivided into two groups - generations: the ones that were manufactured before 1940 and those that appear in the post-war period. Tanks of both generations are very interesting and extraordinary. The USSR, Germany and the USA stick to mass production, while the France – to experiments. Each vehicle had certain unexpected innovation. For example, the middle tank AMX-40 looked like a racing car. As for the post-war vehicles, the French introduced cutting-edge technologies there. They were the first who used automatic loading device for the serial vehicles. One will see it in the game.
During the WWII the troops of  “Free French Forces”, in fact, widely used British and American tanks but we don’t think it is worth introducing them into the tank tree. We’re game designers – not historians. So, the French will have French tanks.

[b]-[/b] [b]What are the pecs of the French Tank Tree as compared with German, Soviet and American tanks? Will the game designers manage to represent the French vehicles construction peculiarities to the full extent?

[/b][b]Andrew Medvedev:[/b] In the 30's French tanks were bilt with one-man turret. This particular feature will be represented in the game as it will influence visibility, firing rate and firepower. Besides one will have fully articulated suspension, that will provide smoother movement at low speeds but will affect ride characteristics at high speeds. The player will have multiturret tanks (super-heavy FCM), tanks with the turret and hull guns (heavy B1). We will try to implement such characteristics as the armour plating of the chassis.

[b] [/b]The French Tank Tree will have its own specific features. In the middle of the leveling it may require from the player to change the game style completely. First tanks are well protected, have lower speed characteristics and insufficient gunpower, while the post-war models have high firepower (thanks to automatic loading device) and high speed characteristics, but weak armor.

[b]Sergey Burkatovskiy: [/b]When using French multiturret and multigun tanks the player won’t have an opportunity to use all the guns simultaneously – only switch from one to another. Free turret or gun will be reloaded and will continue autoaiming.
[b]
[/b]The pre-war vehicles will have stronger armor, which is the advantage as compared with the vehicles of the same class. Unfortunately, it will be the expense of speed characteristics. The main peculiarity of the top level tanks will be their high fire rate: player will be able to use automatic loading device (it will use revolver-type cylinder with 6 shells, which should be reloaded after emptying). These vehicles will have higher speed characteristics but less armored.

I think, light tank of tier VII AMX-13 and top SPG (155-mm rapid-fire gun in the tower with a circular firing) will be popular among the players. I guess, many people will try to get them.

- [b]In general, French armored vehicles of the 30-40's are less known than the Soviet, German and American ones. Did it make your work while developing the Tank Tree and models more complicated?[/b]

[b]
[/b][b]Andrew Medvedev[/b][b][b]:[/b] [/b]Yes, it really did. Though, we have plenty of materials available. Our specialist, Piotr Bitsukov, responsible for gathering the information for the Tank Tree development scrabbed through huge amount of various materials. Nevertheless, sometimes while modeling we have only a couple of drawings and some poor quality photos at our disposal. For instance, to improve the model of AMX-40 prtotype tank we had to spend hours studying its inner sections.

[b]
[/b][b]Sergey Burkatovskiy[/b][b][b]: [/b][/b]Sure [b][/b]there were some difficulties, but we have always been co-operating with armor vehicles amateurs and tank museums that provide us with the necessary information. For instance, recently we've got details of one of the top level tanks which we sent to the model makers. We have already gathered 4 Gb dof data (14000 files) for the french tank tree.

[b]- French tanks have never been represented in games before. Do you feel like a kind of pioneers in this sphere?[/b]

[b]Andrew Medvedev[b]:[/b][/b] It’s gonna be a Schwarzenieger-style answer (just as in his “Commando”) – Yes!

[b]Sergey Burkatovskiy[b]:[/b][/b] I very proud of my work and this particular project as well. We have a very strong team, so, the French tank tree wasn’t that challenging for us.

WoT Developers Team sound quite optimistic, so, we may be sure that new tank tree will be a success.
[/spoiler]


[u][b][size="5"]Dev Question and Answer Compilation[/size][/b][/u] 
[spoiler]
[quote][u]Question[/u]: Will there be any options (checkboxes) players can use to exclude certain maps or certain categories when they are ready to join the matchmaker? At current everyone has at least 1 map or 1 style of tank they dont like and since map votes dont exist this option can improve user enjoyment.

[u]Answer[/u]: Such checkboxes are not planned. Some let's say unpopular maps are likely to be switched to decreased rotation.[/quote]

[quote][u]Question:[/u] Will their be a way to trade tanks, crews, gold, etc with other players for other tanks(as long as both players have the tank researched at all) or credits?
and also will their be like a way to Auction your tank or crew to other players so that their is a chance that you may receive more credits than what you would if you sold it to the store normally?

[u]Answer:[/u] Yes, such features are going to be implemented. No details at this stage. Sorry.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question:[/u] Are there any plans to allow matchmaking to take equipment, crew level, and modules fitted into account, or is tier and type the limit of what it will ever handle?

[u]Answer:[/u] Currently the above is not planned, but it is possible especially in terms of guns.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question:[/u] n the above German tree screenshot, there are premium tanks with a "box" or "gift" label under them. Care to elaborate which will be available to US/EU players and in what form?

[u]Answer:[/u] Panzer II Ausf. J VK1601 will be available for EU (and possibly US) box version, that is going to be limited. Pz.IV-V is likely to be available for pre-order.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]: What changes, if any, are planned for company mode? So as to allow smaller tanks to participate in, instead of the current system which weighs by tier alone (e.g. two Pz 4 = one IS-7)?

[u]Answer[/u]: Company battles are going to be divided into serveral sub modes: 1) according to overall tier of a company, 2) limited to min/max tier of vehicles in it, 3) faction-based company battles.

Most probably overall tier division for companies will correspond to current battle leagues.
[/quote]


[quote][u]Question:[/u]  I'm really curious about if/when any more information about Clan Wars will be added to the game and what it will mean for the game.

[u]Answer:[/u] There will be an update on the upcoming clan wars shortly. The start of clan wars RU closed beta is scheduled for end of January.
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question:[/u] There has been some mention about custom decals or information (clan logos) on tank skins, is there an ETA on when this will be implemented and any information about how it will work? Can we make our own, or will we be choosing from preset combinations

[u]Answer[/u]: They are being finalized currently, should be ready by the start of international clan beta.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]: Is there any information available about a pre-order start date?
Also when pre-ordering is getting ready to begin will beta testers get an advanced option to pre-pre-order?

[u]Answer[/u]: Information on pre-orders will be available shortly, in 1-2 weeks I think. As far as I know there will be 3 basic options available for all. But you brought up a good idea here.[/quote]


[quote]Q[u]uestion[/u]:  I've seen people saying the Panther 2 should actually be smaller than it is now any truth here?

[u]Answer[/u]: Yes, it should be a bit smaller. The model will be scaled.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]: Paint shop for tanks?

[u]Answer[/u]: Package of emblems, decals, and camos is going to be added.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]:  Since the values are already calculated in the game data, can we get a listing of effective armor rating whenever we see an armor value in game?

[u]Answer[/u]:  That will complicate things. Slopesm nonhomogenous armor etc. Not planned.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]:  Can we have a more simplistic version of spotting enemy tanks in this game? If you shoot someone within their commander's view range you should be revealed. It is not fair to avoid detection with bush trickery (over and over again).

[u]Answer[/u]: Visibility system is being redesigned currently.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]:  The Maus is largely considered to be inferior on the battlefield to the IS-7; will we see the coaxial gun working before release OR the E-100 for so there is an approximate "equal" between these two nations heavy tanks?

[u]Answer[/u]: We are working on possible solution for tanks with multiple guns (more than 1). Additonal armor is going to be added to Maus "mudguards" and lower hull armor plate. Moreover some significant changes to Soviet tree are under consideration.
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: When will dynamic stats be implemented? i mean stats like reload time, now its fixed and presents value with 100% crew, but when you get tank you only get portion of it due to crew efficency?

[u]Answer[/u]: Yes, we are working to enable dynamic stats that will reflect crew efficiency, consumables, and modules.[/quote]


[quote][u]Question[/u]:  You mentioned that from 100m to 500m, penetration of AP shells decreases to or by 20%. The wording seemed to imply that it decreases BY 20% (so, 80% of stated penetration at 500m), but my own experiences have very much differed from this interpretation so I think you may have meant something different. Which is it? At 500m, do you have 80% or 20% penetration?

[u]Answer[/u]: Penetration decreases linearly according to shell specs. See penetration tables http://forum.worldof...tration-values/
Roughly it's about 75-80% penetration at 500 meters. [/quote]

[quote]
[u]Question[/u]: When we can see the beta-clanwars? After the release, or before (on open beta)?

[u]Answer[/u]: Most likely right after the release and simultaneously for both EU and NA.[/quote] 

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Experience Calculations - We have calculations for credit reward, can we also have the formula for experience as well?

[u]Answer[/u]: No. Not going to post breakdown for experience calculation.
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Tank releases - What is the order of the introduction of new tanks (US Tank Destroyers, other premium tanks, French Tanks) IN RELATION to other World of Tanks' milestones (open beta, release, etc...)?

[u]Answer[/u]:  US TDs, KV-5, KV-13, Lowe, Pz. 38 (NA) might be added prior to the release. If not, they will be added shortly after it. Then go French tanks, E-series and new tanks for Soviet and US trees.
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Big World - Is WoT running on Big World 1.0, or 2.0? If 1.0, are there plans to upgrade to 2.0?

[u]Answer[/u]: We are using BW 2.0 (2.0.11 currently), the most recent version. 
[/quote]
[quote][u]Question[/u]: Map redesigns - Will we see redesigns of some of the maps currently in rotation to help promote more exciting gameplay?

[u]Answer[/u]: Yes, some old maps will be reworked in future
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Is there going to be calculators added to the game?

[u]Answer[/u]: Nope. Think, players are better at developing such stuff. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Q: Will both NA & EU servers be participating in ClanWars during beta?

[u]Answer[/u]: Yes, both NA and EU in 2 separate betas.[/quote] 

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Q: Any information on the Reworking of the American Tank Tree?

[u]Answer[/u]: Some time after the release, revision of the Soviet tree is planned as well. All the changes will be implemented simultaneously. More detailed information will be revealed later.[/quote] 

[quote][u]Question[/u]: With the server split, are we ever all going to be integrated back together?

[u]Answer[/u]: Random battles and other game modes, when implemented, will be played separately for each server (NA/US, EU, RU). Only global map for clan wars is planned to be integrated. [/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Any major changes planned for the way artillery works (balance, etc) or are you pretty happy with where it is right now?

[u]Answer[/u]: After v.0.6.2.7 artillery works as it is intended. No major changes are planned currently. [/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]:  How firefighting skill and extinguishers consumable works. More exactly what x% chance to put out a fire means? x% chance every second (when the tank is damaged)?

[u]Answer[/u]: It gives X% chance every second that the fire will be put out. The bonuses of crew and extinguishers summed up. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: If i have firefighting on all of my crew members at 100%, what is the overall x% chance to extinguish a fire? It depends from tank to tank?

[u]Answer[/u]: 100% firefighting skill gives additional firefighting bonus dependent on particular tank. Approx about 50%. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: It was stated that reload time was listed as optimal reload with all possible bonuses...but that can't be true for accuracy if the Object 212 and SU-14 do have different accuracy stats, as the SU-14 has a bonus that the Object 212 can't get (An extra gunner).

[u]Answer[/u]: Extra gunner doesn't give any accuracy advantage, average aiming skill per crew is taken into account. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: question about the reworking of trees post release: how is this going to work without a wipe? what will happen to the people than own tanks that are going to be removed?

[u]Answer[/u]: This is under consideration at the moment. One way or another players won't be deprived of purchased vehicles and earned experience. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: What developemnts are underway to improve the mini map? Such as being able to ping allies and locations etc. When you press f7 to call for help there is no way of knowing where that player is... Is this being improved? When can we expect these kinds of improvements? (I know baloance and gameplay issues are much more important right now, just want to know if they are being thought of)

[u]Answer[/u]: Lots of mini-map improvements are in development. 

- visibility range
- radio range
- different colour of dots for platoon member
- etc [/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Do you have any plans for re-spawning games with different game objectives? This could ease alot of the camping syndrome.

[u]Answer[/u]: One of such modes is being worked on. So-called "re-spawn from garage", ie player can use vehicles at his disposal in one battle with some restrictions of course.[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Where is your inspiration behind SPG, since its not based on any realism.

[u]Answer[/u]: We have got vivid imagination. SPGs counter heavies rather effectively at the moment. [/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Do you have plans of adding support for multi-monitor set-ups? For example hi-def minimap and/or tank status box on separate monitor?

[u]Answer[/u]: No such plans. Sorry. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: WoT on Steam. I saw your post stating that you (and by 'you', I mean Wargaming) are planning on putting World of Tanks on Steam. How is this going? Are you planning on having bundles you can buy off of Steam that are like the boxed versions that we have heard about?

[u]Answer[/u]: Negotiations with Steam is now at their early stage. Most likely Steam will be used solely to promote distribution of WoT and the game itself will be free of course. Box version of WoT will definitely appear some time after the release. It's going to be Collector's edition with usual bonus content, both in-game (digital) and hard (physical).[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Balancing of vehicles. Is there an adjustment in the matchmaking system for individual tanks? In other words, if a tank has a above / sub par performance record, can / do you adjust their 'weight' in matchmaking? Is this preferred over adjusting the specs of the tank?

[u]Answer[/u]: It is possible to adjust match-making parameters for each vehicle type and tier. And it is widely used. Match-making value of tier 9 mediums is going to be increased.[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Company battles / clan wars. This is a continuation of the previous question. If a tank is weighted lower than a tank of the same tier, how is this reflected in battles where you only look at the tier of the tank?

[u]Answer[/u]: Vehicles of the same type and tier have the same value in match-making. The are listed in alphabetical order. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: Deeper customization. Are there any plans to deepen the customization of each tank, by the introduction of a more thorough crew skill system, or the addition of researchable modules to slightly adjust various stats to make the tank more of what you want?

[u]Answer[/u]: Additional crew skills including some unique ones for each member are going to be added. New modules are being worked on currently, such as additional armor plates. 
[/quote]
[quote][u]Question[/u]: Hi not sure if this has been answered for definite. if it has I apologise, with all this XP I'm earning atm will I always need gold to transfer it to "free xp" or are you doing away with that for the last part of the beta.and making it real "free xp".

[u]Answer[/u]: Converting regular experience into free experience is going to remain. 
[/quote]

[quote][u]Question[/u]: I noticed some people using cruise control to move slower to lower the chances of being spotted. Does the movement speed effect the chances of being spotted?

[u]Answer[/u]: The chance of being spotted is not speed-dependent, it's the same for 10km/h and 50 km/h. 
[/quote]
[quote][u]Question[/u]: Are American Tank Destroyers going to be implemented prior to release, or are we not going to see them until sometime after the game goves live?

[u]Answer[/u]: Not sure about that, either some time prior to the release or shortly after it. 
[/quote]
[quote][u]Question[/u]: I've read the announcement of "open beta" starting on the 27th. My question is this: Is there a soft/hard wipe planned for the Open Beta (or any kind of wipe). I realize that there will be a hard wipe @ launch, just wondering what the plans were *prior* to launch

[u]Answer[/u]: There won't be any wipes prior to the start of open beta. [/quote]
[/spoiler]

[/quote]


[img]http://img842.imageshack.us/img842/2742/newsheadlines.jpg[/img]
[quote name='News Headlines']

PREVIEW FROM ARMCHAIRGENERAL.COM [url="http://game.worldoftanks.com/news/general_news/preview_armchairgeneralcom"]News Link Details[/url]

WORLD OF TANKS OPEN BETA LAUNCH DATE ANNOUNCED [url="http://game.worldoftanks.com/news/general_news/wot_open_beta_launch_date_announced"]News Link Details[/url]

BEST STAGED SCREENSHOT CONTEST WINNERS [url="http://game.worldoftanks.com/news/contests/best_staged_screenshot_contest_winners"]News Link Details[/url]

WORLD OF TANKS SURPASSES ONE MILLION REGISTRATIONS WORLDWIDE!- [url="http://game.worldoftanks.com/news/general_news/world_tanks_surpasses_one_million_registrations_worldwide"]News Link Details[/url]

[/quote]

[img]http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/9587/discus.png[/img]
[quote name='Main Discussions on the Forums']
Have thoughts or concerns? The following Threads are the main threads for discussing changes or feedback.

[b]North American Forums[/b]
[img]http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/522/usfor.png[/img]

[b]Official Tracks - Tracked - Tracking Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/16060-official-tracks-tracked-tracking-thread/page__view__findpost__p__289292"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Match Making Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/16526-match-making-system-v0615/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Post Patch SPG Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/24225-official-spg-artillery-discussion-v-0627/page__view__findpost__p__333422"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Official Hard/Soft Wipe Discussion Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/25726-official-hardsoft-wipe-discussion-thread/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Official Tank View Range / Spotting Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/20265-official-tank-view-range-spotting-thread/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Thread Covering Open Beta information  [/b][url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/27248-what-open-beta-means-for-you/page__view__findpost__p__380284"]What Open Beta Means to you![/url]


[b]European Forums[/b]
[img]http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/9518/eufor.png[/img]

[b]Official Tracks - Tracked - Tracking Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/16060-official-tracks-tracked-tracking-thread/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Match Making Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/22412-match-making-system-v0627/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Post Patch SPG Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/24225-official-spg-artillery-discussion-v-0627/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Official Hard/Soft Wipe Discussion Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/25726-official-hardsoft-wipe-discussion-thread/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[b]Official Tank View Range / Spotting Thread[/b] [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/20265-official-tank-view-range-spotting-thread/"]Link to Main Topic[/url]

[/quote]


[img]http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/6103/hottopicc.png[/img]
[quote name='Hot Topic of the Week'] [u][b][size="4"]v.0.6.3.2 update - preliminary discussion[/size]![/b][/u] 

[img]http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/522/usfor.png[/img]
[url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/26562-v0632-update-preliminary-discussion/"]North American Forums Link [/url]

[img]http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/9518/eufor.png[/img]
[url="http://forum.worldoftanks.eu/index.php?/topic/26562-v0630-update-preliminary-discussion/"]European Forums Link [/url]

[/quote]

[img]http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/4615/faketip.png[/img]
[quote name='Fake Tip of the Week'][b]Tip: Rule# 1 about 5x exp boost, do not talk about 5x exp boost, rule #2 there was no boost these are not the tankers you are looking for. Rule #3 if anyone is to ask how you made 17k exp in one fight, you will respond "all skill baby"  rule #4 if you use only gold ammo for a battle you grain the 5x exp boost for that battle! [/b][/quote]

[img]http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/8527/postoftheweek.png[/img]
[quote]
[url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/27105-a-thank-you-thread-for-the-3-days-with-5xexpcreds/page__view__findpost__p__378305"]Link to Post[/url]
[quote name='ArmsAndLegsGuy' timestamp='1295504321' post='378305']
To the Developers, adminstrators, and everybody else involved with running the server(s).


Thank you for the three days with the five times multiplied XP and Credits. It was a blast, and great fun. Profitable too. Now I can keep my heavy hitters, and medium tier mediums with ammo, untill the hardwipe, plus my crews are fully trained with 2 secondary qualifications, and well on the way on the third secondary qualification.

I also learned a lot during theese three days, going up against all the high tier mediums and heavies : The Maus and the IS-7 isn't indestructible. The T54's can die to a Panter or Panter-II, All the different tanks burn nicely when hit the right place, and its a good idea to keep T54's, Object 704, MiniMaus, Maus, and IS7's tracked, while the big guns pound on them.

I had fun. I hope you did collect a lot of stats, both technical stats to help running the game, as well as stats on what the dispersion of different tiers were over time during the 5X period. The latter stats would be very interesting as a player to see, if you will publish them.

A&L-Guy
[/quote]


[/quote]

[img]http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/9806/lookfuture.png[/img]
[quote name='A Look to the Future']  

[b][u]New systems for Tournaments in the works![/u][/b]
[quote]
1) Battle results will be posted automatically to the Main site listings!
2) Invites for battles will be sent automatically.
3) System will automatically check teams according to the given conditions for the tournament. It will even be able to check the presence of certain additional kits or shells.
4) New systems will provide numerous options for setting up a varying array of different tournament styles.
[/quote]


[b][u]Gold Assignment in Open Beta[/u][/b]
[quote]During open beta stage all beta testers will be getting 250 gold a day.[/quote]

[b][u]Start of World of Tanks Open beta[/u][/b]
[quote]The launch of WOT open beta is scheduled for January 27. Early next week we are planning to finalize a new bild for Chinese version and fully focus on international open beta.

WOT is doing away with invite system. One won't need invite keys to join the game anymore. Apart from massive PR campaign switch from closed beta to open beta is going to be unnoticeable for the majority.[/quote]

[b][u]Game Maps in High Resolution[/u][/b]
[quote]Check out the album [url="http://img15.imageshack.us/g/liff1.jpg/"]HERE[/url]. Might be useful for clan leaders.[/quote]


[size="4"][color="#FF0000"]Remember these are testing notes and considered Alpha data, subject to change[/color][/size]

[u][b]Patch beta v.0.6.3.2 update[/b][/u]
[spoiler]
- Basic UI for web-based battles (clan battles). 
- Removed festive stuff from maps and hangars. 
- Reworked static lightning for some maps.
- Fixed long descriprions for HE shells in service window.
- Fixed failure when pressing PTT button (rare).
- Fixed crash to desktop when using voice chat (rare).
- Fixed bug when reticle in SPG mode going beyond the map in some cases.
- Fixed incorrect display of water when using high settings for some configurations. 
- Fixed incorrect display of assigned buttons in game controls. 
- Fixed bug with opening game menu while loading the map.
- Fixed game "hang-up" when searching for companies. 
- Removed "turret" for Object 704 from shop window.
- Cleared descriptions for some medals. 
- [E] button unassigned from "fire" and "auto-aim". 
- Fixed too powerful jerks when taking a hit in SPG mode.
- Reassembled audio output libraries.

- Vehicle performance characteristics:
T-54: repair costs increased by 15%, clearance increased by 15 cm, decreased armor of tracks by 5mm (now the same as for T-44), track repair time increased by 10% (now the same as for T-44).
ISU-152: repair costs increased by 8%.
Object 212: repair costs increased by 100%, decreased gun armoring.
203mm F-625D shell: price 1387 -> 1442.
203mm G-620 shell: price 1050 -> 1092.
IS-7: repair costs increased by 5%.
T-14: maximum battle tier reduced by 1.
Т30: repair costs increased by 10%.
STUG III: increased weight limit for top suspension, maximum battle tier reduced by 1.
Increased hit points for guns: 75mm_KwK_L70, 75mm_KwK45_L100, 88mm_KwK_43_L71, 105mm_KwK45_L52_ausf_B.
Maus: reloading time decreased by 0.21 sec.
Panther II:
- 7,5 см KwK42 L/70 gun: dispersion decreased by 7%. 
- 7,5 cm KwK45 L/100 gun: dispersion decreased by 4%. 
- increased weight limit for stock suspension (to mount top turret).
- repair costs decreased by 6%. 
- 10,5 cm KwK45 L/52 Ausf. B gun: decreased dispersion during turret traverse by 14%, reloading time decreased by 0.17 sec, dispersion radius decreased by 7%.
- Maybach HL 234P50 engine: decreased chance of fire by 5%, increased hit point by 12.5%. 
- Ammo rack: hit points increased by 8%.

Projected timeline: to be announced.
[size="4"][color="#FF0000"]Remember these are testing notes and considered Alpha data, subject to change[/color][/size]



[/quote] 

[img]http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/3999/picsweek.png[/img]
[quote name='Pictures of the Week'] 
[b][u][color="#FF0000"][size="4"]Note: Many of these images are from projects in progress. They should be considered Alpha images and not final[/size][/color][/u][/b]

Geschutzwagen E-series (German tier 8 SPG)
[spoiler]
[img]http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/8985/shot058.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1699/shot061.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/9615/shot062v.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/7299/shot060.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img715.imageshack.us/img715/5220/shot059l.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]

Object 261 (Soviet tier 8 SPG)
[spoiler]
[img]http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_weNHKa2AIiQ/TTmgLxUMEWI/AAAAAAAAAU8/j5ku1FBbVjw/s1600/obj261_1.jpg[/img]
[img]http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_weNHKa2AIiQ/TTmgMudoiTI/AAAAAAAAAVA/PyZ1lp1aJIc/s1600/obj261_2.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]

T92 (US tier 8 SPG)
[spoiler]
[img]http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_weNHKa2AIiQ/TTmgNakHneI/AAAAAAAAAVE/p7AxnAfoE4o/s1600/t_92_1.jpg[/img]
[img]http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_weNHKa2AIiQ/TTmgOm8C8nI/AAAAAAAAAVI/WDm-C9xsYa8/s1600/t_92_2.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]

Lowe (Tier 8 Premium)
[spoiler]
[img]http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/7396/shot053.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/3829/shot052.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/4821/shot051l.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/2908/shot050z.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]

Panzer 38tNA 
[spoiler]
[img]http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/4338/shot073h.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/522/shot072.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/3748/shot071.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/7444/shot070.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]

[/quote] 


[img]http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/6226/comicd.png[/img]
[quote name='Weekly Web Comics']
The Loltraktor Chronicles by: Wallachia (1st Armored Division) [url="http://loltraktor.thecomicseries.com/comics/5"]Link to the Authors site.[/url] 
[spoiler]
[img]http://loltraktor.thecomicseries.com/images/comics/5e9ae77c0207ef00af006eecd56cfdda1497000021.png[/img]
[/spoiler]

[/quote]

[img]http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/649/tankskin1.png[/img]
[quote name='Tank Skin of the Week']
This weeks random featured Tank skin is by "Gesar" [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/22073-gesars-skins/page__view__findpost__p__303909"]Thread Link[/url]

[b][u]PzKpfw 38(t)[/u][/b]
[spoiler]
[img]http://img813.imageshack.us/img813/8789/pzkpfw38t1.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/43/pzkpfw38t2.jpg[/img]
[img]http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/8830/pzkpfw38t3.jpg[/img]
[/spoiler]
[/quote]

[img]http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/9963/tankreview.png[/img]
[quote name='Tank Reviews'] Written By: Diastant

[size="4"][u][b]The VK 1602 Leopard[/b][/u][/size]

When I first got my Leopard it was a terrible wreck. It was slower than my KV; it turned horribly, and let's just say it didn't scout very well. However, when my tracks and engine were upgraded, it was a beast.

Armor: The Leopards armor is amazing for its tier.It has 390 h.p., 40 h.p more than the amount that a StuG III has. It bounces shells from the front, and it's almost impossible for other light Tanks to penetrate my front armor because it often takes heavies at least 2 hits to knock out my Leopard. It can take hits like crazy. The frontal armor is more than that of most other lightTanks of its class. Combined with the spall liner you can take massive hits with this thing. It's sloped, very Panther-like and the chassis is more like a baby panther. Watch for your back though. If you’re going to run into a base full of heavies, they are probably going to auto-aim you, your turret armor isn't the best so I recommend going very fast. The metal is wielded with incredible skill and the angle is wonderfully crafted. The back can be vulnerable but I’ve had a fewbounces here and there.

Firepower: The Leopard has the 50mm gun. I can take out any arty Tier 3 or below in a couple of hits, I can take out a SU-14 in about 14 hits or above. Same goes for any other SPG/Artillery. I once heard somebody say that the designers were planningto put a 75mm gun on it's turret but not even a prototype was constructed. However, I can assure you this. Putting a 75mm gun on a Leopard is like puttinga StuG III gun on it. It may not have the biggest boom among otherTanks, but the 50mm gun is what Artillery/SPG fear. It's firepower doesn't make it very effective in higher tier battles but it's one of the best weapons in low tier battles. Artillery still has to watch out because 50mm can still do lots of damage to them. 

Mobility: The Leopard is a little controversial because many say it’s the best scout in the game, but you have to remember that there are drawbacks on all tanks. Its decent top speed of 68 km/h surpasses all other Tanks in its class aside from the A-20. However, when the A-20 turns at 72 km/h, it loses speed just a little more, while the Leopard loses just a little lesser speed when compared to theA-20. The Leopard can circleTanks and dogfight other light scouts, and that’s a good thing,because you are often going to encounter enemy scout’s incoming so you have to fight them to prevent your own team from getting scouted. With its mobility,the only things that can chase it are other Leopards/A-20's or fast medium Tanks. A-20 does have more traverse speed at low speeds though so it turns faster but Leopard can keep speed when turning at high speeds. A-20 is still a good competitor though, so watch out. M-7’sand 5’s can also be tough competition. 

Fear Factor: There's one thing Artillery/SPG'sfear when there is nobody guarding there base. "Leopard incoming in ourbase!" If your team can't reach your base fast enough, the Leopard makesoff with a kill off your SPG's/Artillery so there's always something that SPG'sfear. There is a tip in the game, "If you protect your Artillery from thesmaller Tanks, they will protect you withthe bigger ones". So, for all you Leopard owners out there, if you areusing the Leopard, the Artillery/SPG's on the other team have their fear raised by one level. Same goes for any other scout tank. 

Overall Value: The Leopard is a great tank, and the best thing is this. If you are thrown into a low-tier battle with Leichtraktors and Pz's, it's basically a free round, because the enemy Tanks aren't as fast as you, they can't scratch you if you're going head on, and you can destroy low-tier SPG's/Artillery in a few hits, which you can lose off in a few seconds, enough for a quick getaway. In the higher tier battles, the disadvantage is that if a heavy tank hit's you; you are either going to be dead or get set on fire and lose most of your modules. When you first get the Leopard, however, it is very slow, and let’s just say you're going to have a very hard time scouting. However, try to stick to it because it is going to pay off a lot. It has a wonderful balance of speed and turn that is hard to match with other light tanks. The sound of the 550 h.p. Maybach engine, the gun, and the appearance as well as the mobility, makes this tank, the VK 1602 Leopard, #1 on my review list.

[/quote]


[img]http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/3336/comdrivenfin.png[/img]
[quote name='Community Driven Content']

[size="4"][u][b]Historical Battles![/b][/u][/size]
Historical Battles, Organizer ZorinWarfield.   [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/25649-historic-battle-event-no11-battle-of-the-chongchon-river/page__view__findpost__p__355096"] Link to the Battle of the Ch'ongch'on River[/url]16th. January - 8PM GMT

[b][u][size="4"]Color Blind? Check this out![/size][/u][/b]
Color Blind (Mod) by:SmVueno  Right now in game options are not complete, but the following thread created by SmVueno provides some help. [url="http://forum.worldoftanks.com/index.php?/topic/20292-color-blind-mod-v13/page__view__findpost__p__273743"]Link to Thread[/url]

[/quote]


[img]http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/6273/helpwanted1.png[/img]
[quote name='Help Wanted']
[img]http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7647/addflag.png[/img]

[b][u]New Positions Open![/u][/b]
Looking for 1-2 Players from NA and EU forums to join the Newsletter Staff.  Looking for players that are avid readers of the forums, main work entails finding funny or well written posts, recent information on info segments posted by the devs ect and other content such as finding tank skins for each weeks Newsletter publications.  Main focus is finding and collecting information to be added weekly.  If your interested in such a role please Send a PM to MrVic  Thanks!

Additional positions available, currently were seeking members to write articles or submit entries for the "World of Tanks Newsletter" If you would like to submit an entry or article please send it Via PM to MrVic. Applying to help with the news letter will be done through submissions of articles ect. Benefits for Writers/Reporters may be involved in the future.

[/quote]
[/noparse]

---

Developers Corner  said:

Developers Message to the Community said:

     Through the course of the Closed beta test, there were both moments of joy and frustration, but it would of been impossible to achieve such high level of the game without this testing. During the open beta test, we will do our best to take into account all the issues that caused concern and frustration. Tons of changes concerning gameplay and the community are coming, and rest assured the WoT team will be reviewing more and more information provided by the community.  The WoT team is immensely grateful to all of our closed beta testers, without you it would be impossible to achieve all that we have so far.

Prepare for Clanwars and coming changes, because its going to be an all out war!

Thank you,

WOT  Development  Team

Dev Question and Answer Compilation Round #2 (See last weeks Newsletter Last weeks QA summary)

Spoiler

Quote

Question:Will the Devs make the post battle screen so that we can see who did how much damage in the battle?

Answer:The amount of damage taken and recieved might be added to post battle screen in future as well.

Quote

Question:When will we be able to view full combat logs during or after a battle??

Answer:Combat logs won't be added.

Quote

Question:question regarding swapping equipment upon seeing the map/lineup

Answer:This is unlikely to be added.

Quote

Question: Player skins being seen by all players

Answer:Due to some reasons official support for user-created skins won't be added. At least not anytime soon

Quote

Question:Will the SdKfz 135/1 'Lorraine Schlepper' be implemented as a German SPG? Its not in the full tech tree and I don't want you guys to overlook it.

Answer:Under consideration currently. Quite possible

Quote

Question:Will the Kwk42 L70 and L100 German guns get their historically accurate penetration and rate of fire

Answer:Kwk 42 L70 penetration is ok, the way we converted values was explained earlier. Regarding RoF, for all tanks it was increased up to 2 times in comparison with historical values. For some guns this increase was smaller

Quote

Question:What is the breakdown of servers in regards to testing? I assume there is Wargaming internal testing, then supertest server, then release / beta server. Can you clarify?


Answer:1. There are several stages; internal testing, supertest server, public RU test server, EU and US closed beta servers. And RU main (public) server.

Quote

Question:How difficult is it to push an update to the non-release servers? Is it something that can be easily done every week, or does it take a lot more time than that?

Answer:Requires some time and effort, but overall much easier than pushing updates on public servers.

Quote

Question:Is it possible to test adjustments to tanks on these non-release servers? Could you, just for example, give the Hetzer an increase in hitpoints to see how it would perform (and compare) in battles?


Answer:Yes, it is. And it is in use, especially on Supertest server. Regarding your example with Hetzer, it is possible, but to get precise assessment of the adjustment made, as a rules, public (mass) testing required.

Quote

Question: Would it be useful to have a server dedicated to the balancing of tanks? The developers could make adjustments to any stat on any of the tanks, or even change its tier, and have real players take the tank into battle against other players. There could be a subset of tanks that the players could choose from to make sure that the battles are accurate representations of what would be seen on the release / beta servers. This would allow rapid testing of minor adjustments and major overhauls of tanks with real players providing real battle feedback.

Answer:This is the purpose of RU supertest server. It is possible in will be launched on EU side as well rather soon. Personally I doubt that is possible for US server because of time zone gap.

Quote

Question:Can user created skin packs not go through a vetting procedure by developers so that the "quality" ones can be approved for official use and be seen in-game if a player chooses to download the skin pack online from somewhere

Answer:It is unlikely because of techincal complexity of this procedure. Recieve sking, review and approve skins, inlude approved skins into updates or make them available for download etc.

Quote

Question: I still get stuck on maps a lot. Will there be a review on a solution to this such as being able to "bump" out of obstacles.

Answer:90% of all stuck places will be fixed in the upcoming major update 0.6.4, like stones on Prohorovka, spots around buildings on Ensk, etc

Quote

Question:You have hinted at historical battles maybe coming in the future... will this be just for tournaments or special events or would this be a full battle mode that would be usable at any time?

Answer:For tournaments and special events only. Correct.

Quote

Question:s it possible for Premium tanks to have their own upgrade trees? Like making the Russian Valentine upgradeable with Russian gear to make it, not better, but a different experience from the British Valentine.

Answer:No, this is not planned.

Quote

Question:Will we know what the new tree is going to be like prior to official launch? Any chance seeing any of these changes in open beta?
If it won't be introduced until after launch, will you just credit us back exp points put into the US Tree so we can start over on the US path we want?

Answer:

The announcement on revised US tech tree will be made prior to release, but the changes are likely to be implemented after it.
Substantial changes to Soviet tree are currently under consideration as well.
It will take some time to model and balance new vehicles, moreover all of them are high tier ones.

---

News Headlines said:

WORLD OF TANKS OPEN BETA VIDEO My link

OFFICIAL OPEN BETA BEGINS! News Link Details

OFFICIAL OPEN BETA LAUNCH News Link Details

CRAVING FOR A PALADIN — GO FOR THE PRIEST! News Link Details

PREVIEW FROM ARMCHAIRGENERAL.COM News Link Details

BEST STAGED SCREENSHOT CONTEST WINNERS News Link Details

---

http://img201.images...maindiscuss.png

Main Discussions on the Forums said:

Have thoughts or concerns? The following Threads are the main threads for discussing changes or feedback.


Official Tracks - Tracked - Tracking Thread Link to Main Topic

Match Making Thread Link to Main Topic

Post Patch SPG Thread Link to Main Topic

Official Hard/Soft Wipe Discussion Thread Link to Main Topic

Official Tank View Range / Spotting Thread Link to Main Topic

Thread Covering Open Beta information  What Open Beta Means to you!

---

http://img252.images...09/hottopic.png

Hot Topic of the Week said:

Clans and ClanWars From a players/mods perspective.
Link to Thread

Spoiler

Planned schedule
EU Servers & Server Split (completed) ->
Open Beta (Due 27th January) ->
Game Release & Hard Wipe (Due End of February 2011) ->
Clan Wars Beta -> (Due on or close to release)
Clan Wars Full Release (Global world map) (3 servers Russian/European/USA connected for international clan wars) & (clan wars map wipe)


So there's a thousand and one FPS (first person shooter) games out there, and I don't like them and don't want to play them. I'm here in WOT and here to stay because WOT has something extra and something different that all the other FPS's don't have. A major clan-wars system with a world domination map.

So forget about the game, and the game balance and matchmaking and whatever.. Clan-wars is where its at.. Well for me it is at least..

Unfortunately there is a lot of confusion around the clan-wars, I don't think many players understand how in depth a system wot are making, they haven't listed WOT as a MMO because of its 15v15 random battles, its clan system it has in the works is HUGE...

There's been one released info on clan wars so far Link , and like most players, I read it, scratched my head and read it again. After reading it three or four times with a lot of falling sleep in between I was left with one expression left in my mind. WTH?. So I'll try to write a summary of the old guide which hopefully you will find to be easier to read, there's also been some newer updated information thrown in aswell.

The original clanwars guide was from back in October, since then many players have snuck in questions to overlord, and overlord's leaks bits of information here and there. So I'm going to attempt to piece pieces of info together to share my view of what I *think* clan-wars entails..

Ive tried to confirm the validity of whats contained within here. But things might change a bit between now and when they are officially announced and placed in game, so read things as a guide, instead of a this is exactly how things will be..


Clans and Clan Registrations

On the 23rd December nominations opened for clans to request registration into the game, this closed on the 10th January. Approximately 150 clans nominated, and about 50 of the largest, most active, oldest clans were selected to be the first clans into the game.

Preliminary list of accepted clans.

Spoiler

  Aseveljet
  CS Army
  Fallen Angels
  SILENT SCOPE
  Red Tide
  Company of Reveran
  Team Germany
  Beerpanzer
  130. Panzer-Lehr-Division
  Triple Entente
  115th Scwhere Panzer Division KampfGruppe Schwarzen Lanze
  A Red Sky
  Treasure Trove
  Strategy Games Italia Team
  Forgotten Hope Alliance
  Hellenic Armored Division
  116th Panzer Division
  Relic Armoured
  Iron Wolves
  World of Tanks France
  7th Armored Cavalry Regiment
  1.Tábori Páncéloshadosztály
  Britannia
  Hearts of Draconia
  War Geeks United
  Pro-Internet Gaming Society
  7th Armored Division
  Finnish Tank Clan
  Division Wüstenfuchs
  Crimson Blade
  División Acorazada 250
  Die Söhne Guderians
  Men of War
  Unknown-Warriors
  DoubleDutchClan
  TankBusters
  2nd Armored Division
  503rd Joint Fighter Wing Typhoon Witches
  Stahlpakt
  1ª Cavalaria Blindada ROTA
  Survivors Of Chaos
  Stug Lyfe
  1st Armored Division
  Angels of Death
  Armoured Assassins
  RaGe Balcanians
  Terminus Est
  Divisione Corazzata Ariete
  DarkStar Alliance
  3d Armored Cavalry Regiment
  1stPolish Armoured Division
  Pirates
  Kampfgruppe FHW

These clans will be manually added to the game (free), this manual addition of the clans is to mainly secure these clan's names and to ensure the clan names aren't stolen by another player or clan.

The same day these clans are manually added to the game, Open clan registration will also commence, where clan leaders can register their clans within the game.

Registering a clan costs 2500 gold. So it is better for you to do this during beta with the free gold that is provided, instead of registering the clan after release where the gold would cost you about $10. Clans will not be wiped on release. Players joining an existing clan has no cost associated with that. Players will get 250 gold a day when we switch to open beta on the 27th January, so if you are a clan leader, start saving up for your clan registrations now.



Clan wars, the info..

Pre clan wars beta
Cant wait for clan wars beta? well this will pass a couple of hours for you, and get you motivated and give you some clan war training. Ever play risk? then try TripleA its similar to what I envision wot to be like.

Spoiler

TripleA is a sourceforge free to download free to play game.
Download page: http://triplea.sourceforge.net/mywiki
There is some screenshots of TrippleA on that website, i wont post them here because the people that just look at the pictures and don't read anything will get confused.

You can have a solo game, or you can play online in a lobby against friends.
Now hopefully that's got you warmed up for mixing WOT's game, with a risk type clan-wars map. Imagine the two together? maybe not, so let me tease your appetite a little further.

Please note: posting links to other games is against the forum rules, the above has been posted with WOT approval, as an exception.

The Map, Clan Wars Beta, Clan Wars Release, The World Map, Time Zones, And Other Info..

http://img146.images...69/euromapo.jpg





Full Interface (Russian) The interface is considered an "alpha" test and should be revised before Clan Wars Beta


http://up.1stad.org/...arly screen.png

http://up.1stad.org/...ly screen 2.jpg


Ain't it sweet?
For clan wars beta the play zone will be a euro only map placed onto the three servers, Russian, European and North American. All three servers will play the clan wars beta on their separate servers. This will be placed into our USA server "soon", yeah I know you hate that word, but when its done its will be put in, its almost done now and hits the devs test-servers very soon for some dev testing, then onto the main servers. When it hits the devs servers, I'll get a sneak look at it, and I can (with devs permission) start leaking a lot more info out.

This "clan wars beta", is looking to be introduced soon after release, So you will start playing clan wars after the full wipe on release on an even playing field. Quick leveling after release would therefore help you and your clan get a head start into the clan wars.

When clan wars beta is fully finished, and ready for a full clan wars release, it will be operating on a full world map that should cover all area's except the arctic regions. So it should cover Australia and Asian for the Australians to take over, Europe for the euro's to take over, Russia for the Russians, and America for the Americans and all the other major counties on the map. When clan wars full release is ready and comes out, the three servers will link together to battle on this new and clear and empty world map. IE a clan-wars wipe, NOT an account wipe, or a server wipe, just the old euro only beta map being deleted, and a new shiny empty world map put up for clans to "start conquering again"..

During clan-wars beta, All battles will be scheduled at the prime time the next day of the server time. So for example, a USA clan attacks a German piece of land on the euro clan wars beta map, That battle will be scheduled in the game for the next day, USA time, somewhere between about 8pm -> 10pm IE prime time server time.

On the full clan-wars release, with the full map, battles will then be scheduled at the prime time of the country you are attacking. So on the above example.  A USA clan attacks a German piece of land on the world clan wars full release map, That battle will be scheduled in the game for the next day, German time, somewhere between about 8pm -> 10pm German time IE the prime time of the time zone of the country you are attacking. It is done this way to stop the Russian clans from taking over the whole map, or the euros or the USAers. Attacking, taking, and then defending land that is not in your time zone, will be inconvenient, and thus unlikely. Similarly as the above, the server the game will be played on on this multi server game, will be the server of the land that's being attacked. If you are fighting for USA land, it will be on the USA server, if you are fighting for Russian land, it will be on the Russian server, a roaming system for accounts is being worked on.

When there is just a euro map, players outside of the USA Prime-time timezone will struggle to partake in clan wars, with all the battles being scheduled at the prime time of the server. When clan-wars is fully finished, and a world map introduced, it opens up all the options for non USA time zone players. So an all Australian clan could then take land in Australia and Asia and battle for that land in their time zone, An all UK clan could play on the USA server and could then battle for euro land, in the timezone of the land they are fighting for IE euro timezone, etc..

How big are the maps?
The initial Euro only clan wars beta map will contain about 200 provinces, each on the three servers.

What maps are the clan wars fought on
Initially maps will be a bit random, and selected from roughly appropriate maps, Like countrysides will be a random countryside map, cities will be one of the current city maps randomly selected. With more maps constantly being added. For example Paris atm would either be fought on the Himmelsdorf or Ruinberg maps. In the long run all key historical and capital provinces will have their own unique maps.

Team limits & Tier limits
Unlike companies, clan wars will not contain limits on the teams. The teams are open, up to 15 players attacking / defending, with a minimum of 5 players per side.
The only restrictions on tiers or teams is you must have at least 15 players of tier 5 or above to get started in clan wars.

Tokens, Stationing and moving troops and blockading land
At the start of the game you start with 100 tokens for your 100 clan members (100 player limit on clans), Or 65 for 65 etc whatever.. They will start "off the map" and to go into play they need to land on a coastal region. You then progress from there, and obviously aim at taking over more land. You may "station" up to 15 tokens in a particular region. You claim one piece of your land as your capital.. if you lose all your land, your tokens are off the map and you need to once again start on the coastal land. Land earns gold, and each region earns different amounts depending on its value (eg Paris region is more important than Brittany). However only the land that is directly connected to your clan capital will be earning you gold, any land that is not connected will be considered "blockaded" and will not earn until its reconnected to the clan capital. Tokens are not linked to particular players, they are open, so any clan member may fill the spot of the token.

Moving tokens
Only the clan leader can move the tokens. If the leader is offline, the player with the status of 1st deputy can move them. If the leader and 1st deputy are offline, the right to move is delegated to the 2nd deputy. A clan can move the same tokens once per day. After tokens were moved, they cannot be moved for the next 24 hours from the movement, meaning they are unavailable for movement. One territory may not have more than 15 tokens from the same clan.

Stationed troops
Tokens will not be able to move to another region unless those regions have a common border. And turns/moves may be made hourly, however attacks are scheduled for the next days prime time of the appropriate time zone.

Cloak of war
Other clans wont be able to see where you have your forces stationed. Obviously it would be preferable for enemy clans to attack your undefended or lightly defended land. This is where the special ops, of scouting and spy missions becomes invaluable.

Special Ops
During the hourly turns above, apart from troop movements clans have a range of recon and spying techniques they can employ. As well as an extensive diplomatic system where alliances etc can be formed.

Region Revolts.
Like other games when you conquer lands the local's aren't very happy about it, and you need to station troops within the region to maintain order. if its left unattended for too long, they will revolt. Except for your capital which is free of revolt.


Mercenaries.
Mercs and clan leaders will run off reputation and a track record. If a merc has a track record of not showing up, not being very good, or at worse being a team killer. Then obviously a clan leader wont be very tempted to employ them. Similarly clan leaders who have a reputation for non payment and a bad team, wont be sort after for mercenaries.
Mercs are also required to buy a license that is valid for about a week, after the initial payment/duration they may renew and keep their merc license for 1/2 the initial price per period of time. Like a lot of things, most of the merc system comes down to trust, who can you put your trust into and who cant you?



I hope the above clears some things up, and you start to look forward to clan wars as much as I am. See-you on the clan wars battlefields.
If you would like to read through the full details on clanwars the link is here

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Fake Tip of the Week said:

Fake Tip of the Week: If you find away to achieve 88kph you ripper a hole in fabric of time
and are able to rewind to a earlier point in a battle!

Spoiler

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Post of the Week said:

You Can Help Stop The Spread Of P.U.T.T.S!
A comedic way of teaching good game ethics
Link to Thread

Argo66, on Oct 20 2010 - 16:54, said:

Yes P.U.T.T.S "Premature Upper Tank Tier Syndrome" is a disease that can strike any WoT player but usually hits the newcomers mostly, P.U.T.T.S is caused by the players mad rush through the tank tiers to get to a upper tier tank only to find that he/she cannot afford to run it or has learned the needed skills through the lower tanks to handle it.  Yes it's sad to see when the stricken player becomes so upset because they did not take the time to learn the lower tiers and appreciate how the tanks work then they fly right up to a superheavy and get owned badly because they thought that upper tier means "invincible".  P.U.T.T.S is the first stage of this which can eventually lead to greifing and then TKing.  You can tell if someone has P.U.T.T.S because they have a bloated attitude and ego thinking that they are General Patton himself barking orders all over the battlefield and rushing repeatedly headlong into certain death then sit in their now burning hulks blaming all the other players for their loss.  Luckly there is hope for these arm chair Generals.

How do you cure P.U.T.T.S?

Simple, Take time to learn about each tank on your path up the tree, Get knowledge from senior players and ask for help.  Practice good sportsmanship and be helpful to your team mates. Communicate to your arty and other teams to see what the basic plan is.  Never run away and leave your team mates to get mauled or sit there and watch.  In short, Work smarter not harder.

Remember the 3 basic rules: We plan together, We fight together, We win or die together.

After all, No one likes to play with someone who acts like a putts......

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A Look to the Future said:

  




Gold Assignment in Open Beta

Quote

During open beta stage all beta testers will be getting 250 gold a day.

Game Maps in High Resolution

Quote

Check out the album HERE. Might be useful for clan leaders.

Patch beta v.0.6.3.2 update

Spoiler

Remember these are testing notes and considered Alpha data, subject to change
- Basic UI for web-based battles (clan battles).
- Removed festive stuff from maps and hangars.
- Reworked static lightning for some maps.
- Fixed long descriprions for HE shells in service window.
- Fixed failure when pressing PTT button (rare).
- Fixed crash to desktop when using voice chat (rare).
- Fixed bug when reticle in SPG mode going beyond the map in some cases.
- Fixed incorrect display of water when using high settings for some configurations.
- Fixed incorrect display of assigned buttons in game controls.
- Fixed bug with opening game menu while loading the map.
- Fixed game "hang-up" when searching for companies.
- Removed "turret" for Object 704 from shop window.
- Cleared de​sc​ri​ptions for some medals.
- [E] button unassigned from "fire" and "auto-aim".
- Fixed too powerful jerks when taking a hit in SPG mode.
- Reassembled audio output libraries.

- Vehicle performance characteristics:
T-54: repair costs increased by 15%, clearance increased by 15 cm, decreased armor of tracks by 5mm (now the same as for T-44), track repair time increased by 10% (now the same as for T-44).
ISU-152: repair costs increased by 8%.
Object 212: repair costs increased by 100%, decreased gun armoring.
203mm F-625D shell: price 1387 -> 1442.
203mm G-620 shell: price 1050 -> 1092.
IS-7: repair costs increased by 5%.
T-14: maximum battle tier reduced by 1.
Т30: repair costs increased by 10%.
STUG III: increased weight limit for top suspension, maximum battle tier reduced by 1.
Increased hit points for guns: 75mm_KwK_L70, 75mm_KwK45_L100, 88mm_KwK_43_L71, 105mm_KwK45_L52_ausf_B.
Maus: reloading time decreased by 0.21 sec.
Panther II:
- 7,5 см KwK42 L/70 gun: dispersion decreased by 7%.
- 7,5 cm KwK45 L/100 gun: dispersion decreased by 4%.
- increased weight limit for stock suspension (to mount top turret).
- repair costs decreased by 6%.
- 10,5 cm KwK45 L/52 Ausf. B gun: decreased dispersion during turret traverse by 14%, reloading time decreased by 0.17 sec, dispersion radius decreased by 7%.
- Maybach HL 234P50 engine: decreased chance of fire by 5%, increased hit point by 12.5%.
- Ammo rack: hit points increased by 8%.

Projected timeline: to be announced.
Remember these are testing notes and considered Alpha data, subject to change

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http://img252.images...812/picweek.png

Pictures of the Week said:

Note: Many of these images are from projects in progress. They should be considered Alpha images and not final

US Tank Destroyer T95

Spoiler

Quote

The vehicle is being finalized at this time. 300mm front hull armor confirmed. Should be rather slow one, but with very powerful gun.

New Map Preview "Westfield"

Spoiler

http://img522.images...8/westfield.jpg
http://img402.images...972/shot014.jpg
http://img153.images...86/shot012u.jpg

Spoiler

http://img12.imagesh...27/shot010t.jpg
http://img59.imagesh...2/shot009rv.jpg
http://img233.images...82/shot007z.jpg

Spoiler

http://img441.images...85/shot005a.jpg
http://img834.images...42/shot003n.jpg
http://img824.images...8/shot002su.jpg

Last Weeks Pictures of the Week (Archive)

Spoiler

Geschutzwagen E-series (German tier 8 SPG)

Spoiler

http://img23.imagesh...985/shot058.jpg
http://img148.images...699/shot061.jpg
http://img156.images...15/shot062v.jpg
http://img228.images...299/shot060.jpg
http://img715.images...20/shot059l.jpg

Object 261 (Soviet tier 8 SPG)

Spoiler

T92 (US tier 8 SPG)

Spoiler

Lowe (Tier 8 Premium)

Spoiler

http://img651.images...396/shot053.jpg
http://img508.images...829/shot052.jpg
http://img35.imagesh...21/shot051l.jpg
http://img713.images...08/shot050z.jpg

Panzer 38tNA

Spoiler

http://img262.images...522/shot072.jpg
http://img577.images...748/shot071.jpg
http://img211.images...444/shot070.jpg

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Weekly Web Comics said:

The Loltraktor Chronicles by: Wallachia (1st Armored Division) Link to the Authors site.

Spoiler

http://loltraktor.th...31025613251.png

Maus (Comic Contest Submission) By: SourKraut

Spoiler

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Tank Skin of the Week said:

This weeks featured Tank skin is by "ThePfeil" Thread Link

Panther II, Ardennes '44

Spoiler

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Tank Reviews said:

Written By: Diastant

The IS-3

History: The IS-3 was first designed in 1944, but many sources claim that it didn't see any action in Europe, though some source sclaim that it fought against the Japanese in Manchuria. Nevertheless, it took part in the parade of Berlin and was modernized into the IS-3M in 1960. They were used up to 1973 by many other armed forces around the world. The Israel’s withdrew them because of engine problems and the slow reload times.

Armor: You now have 1350 h.p., and when upgraded to the T-10 turret, 1400 h.p. This is the first tank that you will find that will bounce enemy shells like crazy. The Soviets called it the Pike, because of its distinctive hull shape, which is angled and like a pike nose. When you are battling enemy tanks, try to angle your front armor so that it faces directly toward them. You will get ammo-racked a lot though, because a lot of your ammo is stored in your turret, and the armor is a little weak in the turret. When people auto-aim you, they aim for the turret, which has weaker armor. Nevertheless, it's still a good, reliable heavy tank, depending on how youhandle it. Watch out for your back though, you have 2 fuel tanks that aresitting ducks and it has relatively weaker armor compared to that of the frontal armor. The side armor has to be watched too.

Firepower: Correct me if I'm wrong, the IS-3 has the choice of mounting 5 guns, the 85mm, the 100mm, 2x 122mm's, and the otherone, the BL-9 122mm gun. This thing has spectacular penetration, and with this,you can finally penetrate Ferdinand's and Jagdtiger's in the front. It has more penetration than the other guns, and it has a very different muzzle brake. The BL-9 will still be used by your IS-4. It may seem the same as the previous guns,but it's worth the extra penetration. The BL-9 also is used by a Soviet Tank Destroyer. The BL-9 122mm gun, combined with the T-10 turret makes for a very lethal combination, the turret traverse is good for its tier and the 122mm gun make it good on the battlefield.

Mobility: As an IS-3, you are one of the fastest, lightest, most maneuverable heavy tanks in the game. Your top speed is 36 km/hwhich may not seem a lot but it's worth it. You have a 700 h.p. engine that cantake to to 36 km/h in a very short amount of time. To be honest, the IS-3 is like a heavy medium. Just slower than the Panther in turning and the speed is considerably slower. You can even perform the Circle of Death on slower tanks,which is circling the tank with your turret facing it. Do it on Jagdtigers/Ferdinand's and they will be very unhappy. Soviet heavies sort of tend to favor speed and power, but their bouncy armor makes for a good defense. The IS-3 can get to places on the map very quickly.

Fear Factor: Before the first soft wipe, I was in a IS, the enemy had an IS-3, and the rest were either light tanks or very lowtier mediums. I thought this was a free round but I ran into an IS-3, and my fear level rose up 5 times. If you are a lower tier tank, the IS-3 on the enemy team means trouble for you. It is agile, swift, bouncy, and has a mean turret and gun to go along with it. If you've seen an IS-3 in-game, you will know that the T-10 turret, the pancake one, has a faster turret traverse than the default turret. The BL-9 gun is also something you should watch out for, Ferdinand'sand Jagdtigers watch out because the BL-9 can penetrate your frontal armor,which is supposed to be the strongest on your tank.

Overall Value: The IS-3 is truly a great tank, if it had seen action in WW2, then it would have been very useful against the German Tigers and Panzers. You’re a tier 8 heavy in the game, you are the mainbattle force, alongside Tigers, King Tigers, IS-4's, IS's, and many other heavies. You are important to your team. Do not let them hit you. You 122mm gunis great because it can hit a lot of things. The tank is worth getting. In lowtier battles, it's very good. It has a distinctive shape that other tanks can't match, and combined with its fearsome looks and very low profile, beaten by that of the T-54, this truly deserves a #2 on my review list.

Comments/Suggestions are welcome.

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Community Driven Content said:

Historical Battles!
Historical Battles, Link to Section

Color Blind? Check this out!
Color Blind (Mod) by:SmVueno  Right now in game options are not complete, but the following thread created by SmVueno provides some help. Link to Thread

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Help Wanted said:

http://img339.images...647/addflag.png

New Positions Open!
Looking for 1-2 Players from NA and EU forums to join the Newsletter Staff.  Looking for players that are avid readers of the forums, main work entails finding funny or well written posts, recent information on info segments posted by the devs ect and other content such as finding tank skins for each weeks Newsletter publications.  Main focus is finding and collecting information to be added weekly.  If your interested in such a role please Send a PM to MrVic  Thanks!

Additional positions available, currently were seeking members to write articles or submit entries for the "World of Tanks Newsletter" If you would like to submit an entry or article please send it Via PM to MrVic. Applying to help with the news letter will be done through submissions of articles ect. Benefits for Writers/Reporters may be involved in the future.

[MrVic]

All done this week.  Enjoy

[Jetu]

Westfield looks great.

Bridge must have had a Maus battle on it, being all collapsed there.
*Maus on each end see eachother* !!!
*Charges shooting*
*Bridge collapses under them, and they drop*


Two holes in the bridge.

[jcqc96]

Caught my eye on clan wars. Looking forward to "liberate" the philippines from other clans.  

So there is still a T28 AND a T95 ingame?

By the way, mind changing Clan to Regiment or something like that? It doesn't sound right for WW2 tanks.

@Jetu: Yeah, the bridge should be animated to collapse once a tank rolls onto it. Can't imagine what the T95 would do.

[Zulnex]

Excellent work as always. Thank you very much.

[czer1337]

OH MY GOD

T95



my new background.

[WingNut]

jcqc96, on Jan 29 2011 - 01:49, said:

Caught my eye on clan wars. Looking forward to "liberate" the philippines from other clans.  

So there is still a T28 AND a T95 ingame?

By the way, mind changing Clan to Regiment or something like that? It doesn't sound right for WW2 tanks.

@Jetu: Yeah, the bridge should be animated to collapse once a tank rolls onto it. Can't imagine what the T95 would do.

I SHALL RETURN  

[bigeye123]

Just a question:What kind of gun will the T95 have?I hope it will have the 155mm and mabye an improved version of it also

[Ivin]

Great job.

Awesome Comics, I look forward to them every week!

[Rognik]

jcqc96, on Jan 29 2011 - 01:49, said:

@Jetu: Yeah, the bridge should be animated to collapse once a tank rolls onto it. Can't imagine what the T95 would do.

Actually, the T95 (sounds weird saying that... T28 is its proper name) weighs much less than a Maus, due to its lack of turret. That's why they designed it that way, actually. It's meant to be a heavy tank, even though its lack of turret makes it more like a TD. The lack of turret meant that it could have about half as much weight as a Maus, but with much more armor.

I'm really looking forward the American TDs and the T92 (SPG). When will they be released? At the same time, or will the tier 8 artillery be released first?

[Heiliger]

Nice looking map

[czer1337]

[on the clan wars map]
I wanna join the BMW clan XD!
///M power

[sourkraut]

Cant wait for the new map. Look beautiful and open. Also once again im honored to have another one of my comics appear in the newsletter.

[robozu]

I like your newsletter a lot and it's always fun to read it.
A small correction: Back to the future is an american film. Unfortunately they sill use the imperial unit system. That's why you need to reach 88 miles per hour (mph) and not 88 kilometers per hour. 88 mph can be converted to 140 kph.
just a small useless correction from me and I apologize for even posting, but I couldn't stop myself.

[MrVic]

robozu, on Jan 29 2011 - 08:55, said:

I like your newsletter a lot and it's always fun to read it.
A small correction: Back to the future is an american film. Unfortunately they sill use the imperial unit system. That's why you need to reach 88 miles per hour (mph) and not 88 kilometers per hour. 88 mph can be converted to 140 kph.
just a small useless correction from me and I apologize for even posting, but I couldn't stop myself.

Thats not a movie clip its a top secret testing film of a super tank to end all tanks    btw I know that   have the movie and saw it in the theaters when it came out, hopefully that does not make me old

[dr_fruitloop]

Love the new map, looks well designed. Now to to find camping spots for my ISU-152

Nice advice on how to deal with P.U.T.T.S, as since the x5 bonus a lot more heavy tanks have appeared but are still been driven like a medium tank.

[rko1996]

bigeye123, on Jan 29 2011 - 03:09, said:

Just a question:What kind of gun will the T95 have?I hope it will have the 155mm and mabye an improved version of it also

big im gonna beat u to the  t95/e-series&object261 and thats the truth!& the truth hurts!

[GlennGreen]

Please don't center align

[GlennGreen]

Nice newsletter  

[rko1996]

p.s. the t28 is 1st to known td then known as super heavy than re-designated as t95 in 1946