However, it can be a little strange at times.

It’s a suitable mechanic to have, one that does add a layer of depth and complexity.

In many cases, units will only deal suppression (which weakens a target) as opposed to outright killing its troops. Part of the confusion stems from Panzer Corps 2‘s own in-game mechanics of troop losses versus suppression. It does become a little hard to memorize all of these differences, and this comes from someone who’s played a lot of World War II strategy games including the original Panzer Corps and Paradox Interactive’s Hearts of Iron series. For instance, some artillery pieces use a “soft attack” which is effective against “soft” targets such as infantry, whereas others have a “hard attack” that’s better suited for armored units. One has to take note of all the advantages prior to committing to an attack. Specific unit capabilities also need to be taken into consideration. Sure, the same panzers that led the drive through the Ardennes in Fall Gelb might be some of the best around, but they may not fare as well as before once they reach the freezing cold of Russia. Still, you’ll need to take note of your army’s composition and units. As such, you’ll find yourself getting attached to some of your most experienced units and heroes. While you’re able to field new units at the start of each Panzer Corps 2 mission, you’ll carry over the veterans from previous scenarios. For instance, Operation Weserübung, the invasion of Denmark and Norway - or, in Panzer Corps 2, just Norway - presents two options: do you land on the hilly countryside near Oslo and Stavanger, or further north near the mountains of Trondheim and Namsos? After that, you’ll continue to progress and your victories may carry you across the Atlantic, the ruins of Stalingrad, or further into the Middle East. In fact, many of Panzer Corps 2‘s scenarios present this dilemma. Your first taste of battle is during the invasion of Poland, allowing you to select whether you’re advancing from the north or the south. In Panzer Corps 2, you play as a German commander in World War II, and you can even assign traits that can benefit or hinder your experience.

Panzer corps campaign walkthrough