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Squad 44 Free Weekend and 50% Off for Offworld's 10th Anniversary Sale!

[h2]Recruits![/h2][p]Squad 44 will be on sale during Offworld's 10th Anniversary Sale for 50% OFF! This offer starts July 31 - 10 AM PT (GMT-7) and will be running until August 3rd - 10 AM PT (GMT-7)! Experience Guadalcanal, the Pacific Front, and more on the frontlines of World War II.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]With that, we are also holding a Free Weekend! If you want to hop in with some friends and try out Squad 44, there is no better time than now to immerse yourselves in the chaos of the battle. If you've enjoyed your time with Squad 44, now’s the perfect moment to secure it at a fraction of the price.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Whether they're veterans of the genre or brand new recruits, now’s the time to rally your squad, share the word, and enlist together.[/p][p]No strings attached. No better time to join the fight.[/p][p]Join the Squad 44 Community Discord, build your squad, and take the fight to the enemy today! We're waiting recruit![/p][p]─── [/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

Update 2.3.1 - Changelog

[h2]Recruits![/h2][p]Update v2.3.1 is now available for download. This hotfix includes polishing for the conquest gamemode, further performance enhancements, and also a fix for the issue previously preventing players from joining a server that had the game installed on an HDD or an external SSD.[/p][p]Before deploying, remember to clear your cache before joining a server for a smooth operation. Thank you, recruits![/p][p]If you're looking for other fellow recruits to fight alongside, we suggest joining the Squad 44 Community Discord![/p][p][/p]
  • [p]Fixed hidden UI spam causing FPS drops.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed some VFX issues, e.g., Smoke particles spawning too often.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed HDD server loading times through EOS/EAC amendment.[/p]
  • [p]Various HLOD fixes.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Removed collision from the top of some vehicle spawners to prevent vehicles from getting stuck on reset.[/p]
  • [p]Best, Grave, Velmolen, and Heelsum geo fixes.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed broken ammocrate on SME Conquest.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Conquest [/p]
    • [p]Players no longer spawn within 45 degrees in front of the Squad Lead; they will spawn behind and to the side to reduce the potential of friendly fire.[/p]
    • [p]Squad Leader spawns will go inactive when enemies are within 20m (red colour).[/p]
    • [p]When enemy players outnumber friendly players on a capture point, the capture point spawn becomes inactive (red colour).[/p]
    • [p]Capture point spawns give players 2 seconds of spawn protection and offer more variety in where players spawn within the area to reduce the potential of spawn camping.[/p]
    • [p]Players can now spawn up to 5 Mechanised or Specialised vehicles (up from 3).[/p]
    • [p]Ticket bleed is now visually shown in the UI.[/p]
    • [p]Set capture point ammo crates not to take damage.[/p]
    • [p]Removed Spawn Tents from Conquest.[/p]
    • [p]Set the Conquest player controller to vanilla.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Improved spawn UI on the spawn menu to denote types of spawn.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Adjusted various conquest player roles and limits.[/p]
    • [p]Reduced AT mine to 1 for all conquest Sapper kits.[/p]
    • [p]Added frag grenades to the UK medic role.[/p]
    • [p]Set the medic limit to 8.[/p]
  • [p]Made the MG temperature VFX less opaque to be less blinding on firing.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Fixed Flammwagen Pzkfw. B-2 740(f) Flamethrower Tank magazines.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed double-sided armour plating on Flammwagen Pzkfw. B-2 740(f).[/p]
  • [p]Added fuel component to the rear of Flammwagen Pzkfw. B-2 740(f).[/p]
  • [p]Fixed Churchill Crocodile Flamethrower Tank magazines.[/p]
  • [p]Removed trailer from Churchill Crocodile physics asset to improve tank handling up hill.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed misaligned hatch open driver camera on Churchill Crocodile.[/p]
  • [p]Both new tanks were added to Arnhem Range.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed double armour plating behind MG port on Churchill MkIV and VII.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Fixed bleed-out circular progress bar.[/p]

Free Weekend New Player Kickstart Guide!

New To Squad 44? Let's Get You Up to Speed!
[p][/p][p]We’re celebrating our free weekend in Squad 44, and with that comes a lot of new recruits to the battlefield. We’re here to help provide you with some tips on how best to understand Squad 44 if it's your first time playing![/p][p][/p][p]This write-up was made possible thanks to the incredibly thorough guide created by Sgt. Bagel and Kermit. A must-read if you're looking for in-depth details and insights, which we will link below. [/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]We also want to extend our appreciation to our amazing Content Partners, Boogie5 and Bushwicks, and Community Members, Elise and Herr Wolf Gaming for their continued support and contributions to this as well!
[/p][p]With that, we hope this small guide gets you off on the right foot for battle recruits! If you want to speak to some fellow Squad 44 players we also suggest joining the Squad 44 Discord![/p][p][/p][p]For an Italian localization, please check out this version by Balumba - Guida per nuovi giocatori di Squad 44[/p][p][/p][h2]Beginner Kits/Classes[/h2][p]In Squad 44, players must choose a role (Kits/Classes) before they can spawn in. Each role determines the soldier’s loadout, including their primary weapon, sidearm, grenades, and specialized equipment. Your chosen role significantly shapes your responsibilities on the battlefield and within your squad.[/p][p][/p][h2]Infantry Classes Overview[/h2][p]Infantry classes in Squad 44 are divided into three main categories:[/p][p][/p][h3]1. Lead Roles[/h3][p]These include the Platoon Leader and Squad Leader. Leadership roles are crucial for coordinating the team and rely heavily on player experience and communication skills. Each of these roles is limited to one per squad and is best suited for players comfortable with making strategic decisions under pressure.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Still on the fence about taking command? Our partner Boogie5 has you covered with a tactical briefing. Check out his video guide on how to lead your squad into battle on the Pacific Front![/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]2. Standard Roles[/h3][p]Standard roles make up the bulk of the squad and are often more beginner friendly due to their more simple playstyle. (Shoot, Rearm, Revive or shoot a lot!) These include:[/p]
  • [p]Riflemen – No limit per squad.[/p]
  • [p]Medics – Up to 2 per squad.[/p]
  • [p]Gunners – Typically limited to 1 per squad, except for specific factions (e.g., the 1940 French can have both an LMG and an Automatic Rifle in the same squad).[/p]
[p]These standard roles are heavily recommended for new players until you understand the basics of how Squad 44 plays![/p][p]If you want to dive deeper into these roles, our partner Bushwicks has put together comprehensive guides that we strongly suggest you check out![/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h3]3. Specialist Roles[/h3][p]Specialist roles offer access to unique weapons and equipment. Examples include:[/p]
  • [p]Anti-Tank[/p]
  • [p]Marksman[/p]
  • [p]Sapper[/p]
  • [p]Flamethrower[/p]
  • [p]Grenadier[/p]
[p][/p][p]Each squad may only have up to 2 specialist roles, and many of these roles are further restricted on a team-wide basis. Typically limited to 2–4 players depending on the faction and time period.[/p][p]These roles are among the most challenging to master, often requiring a significant investment of time, practice, and tactical understanding. There's usually high expectation from teammates for players in these roles to perform well, which can make the learning curve steep.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]The Logistic Role[/h2][p]In Squad 44, logistics isn't just a support role, it's the foundation of your team's success. A well-organized logistics effort keeps the frontline supplied, the defenses reinforced, and the team in the fight. Without it, even the best squads can crumble due to lack of spawn points, ammo, or fortifications.[/p][p]The Logistics Squad plays this vital role, specializing in building and maintaining Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) that act as player spawns and other strategic positions. Typically made up of four players, this squad operates with dedicated vehicles and tools designed specifically for transporting supplies, constructing emplacements, and resupplying both infantry and armor.[/p][p]Whether you're hauling materials across contested ground or fortifying a critical objective, logistics is what keeps the war machine running. Neglect it, and the consequences are swift and unforgiving.[/p][p][/p][h2]Vehicle Classes Overview[/h2][p]Operating a tank isn’t a solo job. It’s a team effort. Every tank, regardless of nation or model, shares a set of core crew positions. Each plays a vital role in keeping the vehicle combat-ready, though some are more central to the tank’s function than others. [/p]
  • [p]Driver[/p]
  • [p]Hull Gunner[/p]
  • [p]Main Gunner[/p]
  • [p]Tank Commander[/p]
[p]While you can get by with just two crew members, a full crew of three or four significantly boosts effectiveness, especially in combat-heavy situations where manoeuvrability, target selection and positive communication is critical. Whether you're behind the gun or patching up damage under fire, each position has its part to play in turning your armored beast into a battlefield force.[/p][p]As each tank is unique, Herr Wolf Gaming has created a Newbie Guide that goes over a lot of their strengths and weaknesses, helping Tankers and Anti-Tank players get to grips with the mechanics![/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h2]Communication is Highly Recommended![/h2][p]Communication is the key to victory. By default, you can chat locally with your team using the “V” key, and communicate with your squad using the “B” key. You can adjust right/left audio channels and keybinds in the Settings menu to fit your playstyle. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Having a microphone is highly recommended. It lets you quickly call out enemy positions, vehicle movements, incoming fire, and more. Spotting an enemy FOB or a marksman watching your spawn? Relay that intel to your team for your Squad Leader or Radioman to mark, allowing you to focus your firepower and crush the opposition before they get the upper hand.[/p][p][/p][h2]It’s OK to Make Mistakes![/h2][p]Mistakes are part of the learning process, especially if you’re new, but it's important to approach them with a genuine desire to improve. Don’t hesitate to use your comms and ask your fellow recruits for help if you’re ever unsure or lost. Most are happy to guide you, especially if they see you're making an effort to learn.[/p][p][/p][h2]Your Map is Your Friend![/h2][p]By default, you can open the map with the “M” key, and access a larger, more detailed version with the “N” key. The map displays all intel your team has gathered such as incoming artillery strikes, discovered FOBs, enemy infantry movements, enemy tank positions, and, most importantly, your teammates’ positions. Make it a habit to check your map regularly to reduce the risk of friendly fire and stay one step ahead on the battlefield. In addition there is a compass so use the degrees and cardinal directions if you’re next to your teammates for better call-outs![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Tip from the devs: If you’re using the old pop up compass you can bind the map to the same key for quicker and easier navigation on the battlefield.[/p][p][/p][h2]Follow the Server Rules![/h2][p]Since Squad 44 servers are community-run, many have their own specific rules and regulations. It’s always best to read through the server rules on the faction selection page before you start as breaking them; could get you kicked or banned! [/p][p]One rule you'll always find: if you team-kill a friendly, make sure to apologize in chat. It goes a long way! [/p][p]Unsure what server to join? We have some suggestions below! [/p][h3]Infanterie Regiment 9 \[IR9] - EU/German[/h3][p][/p]
  • [p]"The IR9 is a Squad44 Regiment established in June 2018. We consider ourselves what is internationally known as a "Realism Unit." This means we drill based on historical Wehrmacht regulations and regularly compete in friendly clan matches against other international units in vanilla and PSRM events. With our pool of an average of 30 active players and weekly events and training programs, we are one of the largest and most active communities in the German WW2 Realism scene" - Discord[/p]
[p][/p][h3]Corrupted Infantry \[CI] - EU[/h3][p][/p]
  • [p]"Who are we? We are a casual, new player-friendly community that loves to play games and have fun together. Established in 2020, we have since grown to nearly 6000 members (on our Discord) and represent one of the top EU Squad 44 and Squad communities. Who are we looking for? Be at least 18 years of age, have a microphone, and have a positive attitude. It doesn't matter if you just got the game or have already hit 1000+ hours, everyone is welcome!" - Discord[/p]
[h3]Sitzkrieg \[SK] - EU/German[/h3][p][/p]
  • [p]"Sitzkrieg is a German-speaking community of Squad 44 and thus can be found in the EU region, but also allows English-speaking players. We strongly emphasize structured teamplay and communication to ensure top-quality gameplay on our servers. We are very open towards new players and offer training sessions and guidance for them; all they have to do is reach out to us via Discord or in-game." - Discord[/p]
[p][/p][h2]Additional Tips and Videos![/h2]
  • [p]Drink your canteen! (Depending on the game mode) Squad 44 uses a stamina system to restore your stamina, every soldier in their loadout has a canteen, with which stamina can be replenished faster than not moving. [/p]
  • [p]You can queue for a server while playing in another! If your preferred server is full, no worries! Join a different one for now, then open the server browser to queue up for your desired server. That way, you won’t miss your spot in your preferred server, while honing your skills elsewhere.[/p]
  • [p]Smoke grenades are your best ally on the battlefield. If you’re taking fire and can’t pinpoint the enemy’s exact location, throw it in their general direction, deploying smoke can give you the cover you need to survive. Use them wisely![/p]
  • [p]Headshots make a distinct helmet noise but while pistol headshots will kill in one shot, the sound will not trigger. SMG headshots, however, will give you that satisfying audio cue.[/p]
[p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][h2]Free Weekend and Sale![/h2][p]If you haven't already noticed, Squad 44 is running a Free Weekend Operation from Thursday, July 31st, through Sunday, August 3rd. During this time, we're also proud to celebrate 10 Years of Offworld with a major sale event.[/p][p]Now's the time to try out Squad 44 for free and try out the newest gamemode Conquest in Update V2.3. For those who try out the game mode, we welcome your feedback on our Google Form![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]All of our titles are available at a discount including Squad 44, which will be marked down by 50%. If you've enjoyed your time with Squad 44, now’s the perfect moment to secure it at a fraction of the price.[/p][p]Don’t miss out![/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h2][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/h2]

Update 2.3 - Changelog

[h2]Recruits![/h2][p]Update v2.3 will be available to download on July 29th at 11 AM PT. This update brings further optimization improvements, a new gamemode, two new infantry weapons, two new flamethrower tanks, and several significant bug fixes![/p][p]We have implemented a temporary fix for the HDD loading bug. However, we continue to advise players to install Squad 44 on an SSD instead of an HDD to achieve better performance while we wait for EAC support.[/p][p]Before deploying, remember to clear your cache before joining a server for a smooth operation. Stay sharp out there![/p][p]If you haven't and want to chat with fellow players about Update v2.3 please join the Squad 44 Discord![/p][p][/p]
  • [p]New tanks are missing from the Arnhem Range.[/p]
  • [p]New tanks have excess flamethrower magazines.[/p]
  • [p]Vehicles driven out of bounds don't die in conquest (players do).[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Possible FPS bleed fix (Please see wood/concrete shockwave emitter fix in "General Fixes" for more info).[/p]
  • [p]Possible memory leak fix related to revive and heal icons.[/p]
  • [p]Further work on limb and helmet physics for gore.[/p]
  • [p]Added new HLODs to multiple maps.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Added Conquest Game Mode[/p]
    • [p]Five initial maps (Oosterbeek, Arnhem, Grave, Haguenau & St Mere Eglise)[/p]
      • [p]Smaller gameplay arenas pushing you immediately into the heat of battle.[/p]
      • [p]Spawn on SL mechanic and spawn on captured flag mechanic.[/p]
      • [p]Multiple active flags with ticket bleed mechanics.[/p]
[p][/p][p][/p]
  • [p]Multiple map geometry fixes.[/p]
  • [p]Removed vehicle collision on multiple hedges/bushes across various maps.[/p]
  • [p]Replaced broken Oosterbeek Frontline Objective.[/p]
  • [p]Corrected pre-placed supplies on Oosterbeek Offensive 02.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Deployables can now be rotated using the Q and E keys when placing.[/p]
  • [p]Updated 2D floating objective markers (flags and more).[/p]
    • [p]Attack/Defence Information.[/p]
    • [p]Objective timer.[/p]
    • [p]Fade in/out over distance.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Updated the ANZAC medic emblem to be green.[/p]
  • [p]Added custom server options configuration for seeding gamemode.[/p]
  • [p]Changes to shadow quality to fix flickering.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Added new USMC 1st Raider Battalion Weapons.[/p]
    • [p]M1941 Johnson Rifle.[/p]
    • [p]M1941 Johnson Machine Gun.[/p]
[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p]
  • [p]Added Flammwagen Pzkfw. B-2 740(f) Flamethrower Tank for the German Army (Chapter 1 maps).[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Added Churchill Crocodile Flamethrower Tank for the British Army (Chapter 1 maps).[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Both new tanks were added to the Tank School.[/p]
[p][/p]
  • [p]Fixed APHE's poor penetration and shatter on impacting the tank crew (APHE is now significantly more lethal).[/p]
  • [p]Fixed flamethrowers killing the tank crew inside the turret.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed buildable/vehicle-mounted MG/AT Gun jitter.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed spawns displaying twice on the spawn menu.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed radio bleedout indicator.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed issue with shockwaves against wood and concrete, creating an eternal emitter, resulting in significant FPS degradation over time.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed issue with Gammon grenade and Gebalte Ladung causing unnecessary shockwave traces upon detonation, causing FPS hitches.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed elongated fuel component explosion flames.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed markers not getting grayed out if a flag is no longer capturable (top right, minimap, and 2D floating UI).[/p]
  • [p]Fixed tanks being flipped by strafing runs.[/p]
  • [p]Fixed Guadalcanal water killing players when not submerged.[/p]
  • [p]Cromwell Hull mesh rear double armour fixed.[/p]
  • [p]Sherman Hull mesh double armour fixed.[/p]

Conquest Gamemode Public Playtest and Free Weekend Incoming!

[h2]Recruits! [/h2][p]We're pleased to report that a new game mode is now in active development in addition to our ongoing operations across Squad 44. To sharpen it for frontline duty, we’ll be conducting a public playtest and calling on the community to step forward, take the field, and deliver hard-earned feedback from the front.[/p][p]“While our coders have been focused on optimisation, we gave our blueprinters the challenge of coming up with a new game mode that could bridge the gap for new players, while offering a new challenge for our more competitive veterans. [/p][p]The Conquest gamemode is the product of their hard work. With the action focused in a smaller area and the ability of players to spawn on their Squad Leader established, players can jump straight into the action in a much more focused, high intensity battle, where control of territory constantly shifts back and forth to the benefit or detriment of your team. [/p][p]We hope this gamemode will offer new players a more fun and graduated learning curve as they join the ranks of our community and get used to squad play, while also offering veterans and clans more opportunities to hone their skills; fighting it out in a more competitive, frantic game mode, where small unit tactics really do matter.” - Katz, Project Lead, Mercury Arts[/p][h2]Conquest[/h2][p]The Conquest Gamemode is 64 player smaller-scale, territory control operation in which two opposing factions engage in a tactical struggle to exhaust the enemy’s Reinforcement Tickets. Victory is achieved by capturing and holding key strategic positions designated as flags across the battlefield, while simultaneously neutralizing enemy forces.[/p][p]The match is won by the side that depletes the opposing team's tickets to zero, or by holding the higher ticket count when time runs out. Controlling more flags than the enemy initiates a Ticket Bleed, gradually wearing down their reserves. The rate of this bleed increases based on flag superiority. Holding a single extra flag causes a slow drain, while a three-flag advantage accelerates enemy losses significantly.[/p][p]As an overview, each Conquest map follows roughly the same setup.[/p]
  • [p]5-7 neutral flags spread across the map.[/p]
  • [p]2 protected main bases (One for each team).[/p]
  • [p]600 tickets for each team per map.[/p]
  • [p]Default 60-minute matches.[/p]
[h3]Capturing Flags[/h3][p]When a neutral flag is first captured.[/p]
  • [p]An Ammo crate is spawned at the flag for the controlling Team.[/p]
  • [p]Vehicles may spawn at the flag for the controlling Team.[/p]
  • [p]Flags will change depending on who is in possession of the capture point.[/p]
[h3]Spawning[/h3]
  • [p]Squad Leader - Squad members can spawn on their Squad Leader in this new gamemode.[/p]
  • [p]Flag Spawns - Captured flags can be spawned on if no opposing forces contest the flag.[/p]
  • [p]Mainbase Spawn - Available as in the standard game.[/p]
[p]This new game mode delivers a faster-paced experience compared to our existing modes and is still very much a Work-In-Progress and subject to change. That’s why we’ll be conducting our First Public Playtest this weekend from Friday, July 25th at 10:00 AM PT to Monday, July 28th at 10:00 AM PT.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]As this is a public playtest. This will be held on the Squad 44 - Public Testing Application and you will not be able to find any Conquest servers on the default game app. Please ensure you download the Public Testing app ahead of time. If you cannot locate it in your library, go to the top of Steam, click on “View”, and then “Hidden Games”.[/p][p]With that we’re calling on the community to jump in, test it out, and help us shape its future. Your feedback will be critical in refining the mode for full deployment. If you haven't yet we also suggest joining the Squad 44 Discord to better aid this public test![/p][p][/p][h2]Free Weekend Incoming![/h2][p]Get ready, soldiers! In addition to all the news coming your way, Squad 44 will be hosting a Free Weekend from Thursday, July 31st, through Sunday, August 3rd. That means full access to the game completely free for the entire weekend![/p][p]If you've got friends who’ve been on the fence or curious about jumping into the action, this is the perfect chance to squad up and show them what they’ve been missing. Whether they're veterans of the genre or totally new recruits, now’s the time to rally your crew, share the word, and enlist together.[/p][p]No strings attached. No better time to join the fight.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]
Mark your calendars and prepare for battle![/h3][p][/p]