Brothers in Arms: The KARDS Summer Expansion Arrives on June 27th!
vor mehr als 1 Jahr
Attention KARDS players!
The summer expansion, Brothers in Arms, arrives on June 27th!
We’re deploying an arsenal of 92 new cards and introducing the brand new Veteran mechanic! The Veteran mechanic adds a fresh layer of strategy, allowing designated units to rank up in battle, transforming into upgraded versions by meeting specific requirements. Circle June 27th in your calendars as that’s when Brothers in Arms rolls out!
Along with the new expansion we introduce the first full rotation, with 90 cards entering the Reserve pool at the same time as the expansion pre-orders go live. Want the intel on which cards are getting the transfer orders? Click here for the full briefing. Note that we’re dropping a one time care package in the form of some card packs from the new expansion to help you weather this shake-up. Claim your loot in-game when the expansion takes off!
Brothers in Arms is all set to redefine the battlefield on June 27th. Pre-orders are open now - secure your spot today!
Gear up for a thrilling strategic shake-up, it’s time to reshuffle the deck in KARDS!
Spoiler Season Kick-Off
We kick off the spoiler season right now with 12 exciting card reveals from the Brothers in Arms expansion!
Expect more reveals in the upcoming weeks as we unravel the thrilling cards and themes of this expansion. Cards may be revealed directly by the KARDS dev team or by the community!
Subscribe to our social media channels to stay up to date and never miss any reveals:
Especially make sure to join the KARDS Discord server to get first-hand information, discuss the revealed cards and their potential use in existing and new decks, and speculate about upcoming card reveals.
Tomorrow, May 26th, we’ll have a brand new episode of The Frontline Podcast featuring Keli, Director of Game Design, where we’ll discuss the upcoming expansion and show you some more of what’s up ahead!
Also make sure to tune in to the upcoming KARDS Special Operations broadcast on May 28th at 13:00 GMT on the KARDS Twitch Channel which is sure to feature some more exciting information!
Card Reveals
50. Infantry Regiment
The 50. INFANTRY REGIMENT is a German Infantry unit of Standard rarity with the Veteran ability. It costs 2 Kredits to play, 1 Kredit to operate, has 3 attack and 2 defense. The 50. INFANTRY REGIMENT becomes Veteran when it moves into the frontline. When it's Veteran, it has 4 attack, 3 defense, and gains the Ambush ability.
Historical Context
At the start of WWII the 50th Infantry Regiment was part of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Wehrmacht which took part in the invasion of Poland in 1939 and the invasion of France in 1940. In 1941 the regiment was transferred to the 111th Infantry Division to participate in Operation Barbarossa as part of Army Group South. The division fought around Kiev where it helped to trap and destroy the Soviet 37th Army before pushing eastwards. After the capture of Russian city Rostov-on-Don in 1941 they were forced to retreat and take up defensive positions. After some rest the 111th Infantry Division joined operation Case Blue with the 17th Army, which was a German summer offensive in 1942 with the goal of securing the Soviet oil fields in the Caucasus. Case Blue was a failure and ended with the withdrawal of the German forces and the 111th Division took up defensive positions which lasted until July 1943. After the German defeat at the Battle of Kursk in the summer of 1943 the division gradually rolled back to the west, defending various areas until it was eventually destroyed while defending Crimea. The last remnants were evacuated by ship in May 1944, and the division was disbanded.
327th PATHFINDERS
An Elite US Infantry unit, the 327th PATHFINDERS has 2 attack, 2 defense, costs 3 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate. Its deployment effect deals 2 damage to a unit and, if this destroys it, the 327th PATHFINDERS becomes Veteran. In its Veteran form, this unit has Blitz and the effect that at the start of your turn, a random enemy unit Retreats.
Historical Context
The Pathfinders of the 327th Glider Infantry Regiment were a specialized unit within the US Army during WWII. They were responsible for landing ahead of the main airborne forces to prepare and mark the landing zones for subsequent paratrooper drops or glider landings. The Pathfinders were trained to jump from aircraft or gliders and make their way to the designated landing zones. They would then set up beacons, signal lights, and other markers to guide the incoming aircraft. This was a crucial task, as accurate and timely delivery of troops and equipment was essential for the success of airborne operations. The 327th Glider Infantry Regiment played a vital role in several important operations during WWII, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy, the airborne assault during Operation Market Garden, and the Rhine River crossing during Operation Varsity. Additionally, in December 1944, the 327th was part of the 101st Airborne Division, which was hastily deployed to the Ardennes during the German offensive, known as the Battle of the Bulge. One of the most notable actions of the 327th Pathfinders during the battle was the defense of the town of Bastogne. For its action during the defense the regiment got its nickname “Bastogne Bulldogs”. After the Battle of the Bulge, the 327th Infantry fought in the Rhineland and Berchtesgaden offensives. Following the end of WWII, the regiment was deactivated on 30 November 1945.
STRONG BOND
The British Order STRONG BOND has the effect that a friendly ground unit gets Guard and: "Add a US 3-cost unit to your support line at the start of your turn". It costs 4 Kredits and is Standard rarity.
Historical Context
After the American Revolution in 1783 the UK recognized American independence and the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1785. Ever since the UK and the US have remained close partners. The UK-US relations at the start of WWII were complex as the Americans were divided on what the role of the nation should be in the war, or if it should interfere at all. However, public opinion changed, especially during the Battle of Britain, as it showed that the German war machine was not invincible, and by April 1941 a public poll showed that the majority of Americans were in favor of joining the war against the Axis. Finally the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, ended the debate once and for all and shortly after the US was at war with the Axis powers.
6th AIRLANDING BRIGADE
An Elite British Infantry unit, the 6th AIRLANDING BRIGADE has the Fury ability and the effect that when a friendly unit would deal 1 combat damage, it deals 3 instead. It has 1 attack, 4 defense, costs 2 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate.
Historical Context
The 6th Airlanding Brigade was an airborne infantry brigade of the British Army during WWII. The brigade was created in 1943 and was assigned to the 6th Airborne Division, nicknamed Red Devils, along with the 3rd and 5th Parachute Brigades. The 6th Airlanding Brigade was unique among British airborne units in that it was composed entirely of glider-borne troops. The brigade consisted of three battalions of infantry, as well as supporting units such as engineers, medics, and anti-tank troops. The brigade saw action in several major operations during the war, including the Normandy landings in June 1944 and the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. During the Normandy landings, the brigade was tasked with securing the eastern flank of the invasion area and capturing several key bridges. At Arnhem, the brigade was tasked with securing the landing zones and holding bridges over the Rhine River. The 6th Airlanding Brigade suffered heavy losses during both operations, with many of its troops killed, wounded, or captured. However, the brigade's actions were critical in the success of these operations. After the war, the 6th Airlanding Brigade was disbanded.
49th KARACHEV
A Soviet Infantry unit of Limited rarity, the 49th KARACHEV has the Guard ability and, when an enemy unit becomes Veteran, deals 2 damage to it. It has 3 attack, 4 defense, costs 3 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate.
Historical Context
During WWII the 49th Guards Rifle Regiment was part of the 16th Guards Rifle Division, which was a highly decorated and elite infantry division of the Red Army during Great Patriotic War. It was formed in February 1942 and served in various fronts throughout the war. It was initially assigned to Kalinin Front and later transferred to Western Front's 30th Army where it took part in the struggle for the village of Polunino. It then fought in various battles and operations and was eventually reassigned to the 11th Guards Army, with which it served for the rest of the war. During the summer offensive against the German-held salient around Oryol, it assisted in the liberation of Karachev and received its name as an honorific. The division participated in the liberation of key cities like Orsha, Minsk, and Königsberg (today known as Kaliningrad), and was highly decorated for its actions. It remained in the Kaliningrad Oblast well after the war until it was finally disbanded in September 1960.
THE MIGHTY FALL
THE MIGHTY FALL is a Soviet Order of Limited rarity. It costs 3 Kredits to play and has the effect "Destroy target Veteran unit".
Historical Context
At the start of Operation Barbarossa (the German invasion of the Soviet Union), the Soviet Union and the Red Army had a huge disadvantage, militarily, productionally and technologically. However, at the start of 1943 they started gaining the upper hand in a series of significant turning points. This started with their victory in the Battle of Stalingrad in February 1943, followed by The Battle of Kursk in July 1943, and finally the Operation Bagration (June-August 1944). It's also important to note that the Soviet Union's ability to produce weapons and equipment on a massive scale, combined with its vast resources and manpower, was a crucial factor in their overall success. While Germany initially had the upper hand in certain technological aspects, the Soviet Union's determination, industrial capacity, and strategic planning allowed them to catch up and ultimately overcome Germany's technological and military advantages.
BATTLE VALOR
BATTLE VALOR is a Standard US Order that costs 5 Kredits to play. It has the effect that a target unit becomes Veteran if able, then gets +2 +4.
Historical Context
While it is difficult to provide precise numbers, machine gunners in bombers did contribute to shooting down enemy aircraft, especially when engaged in defensive actions. The primary objective of bomber gunners was to deter and suppress attacks rather than achieving high numbers of aerial victories. The role of bomber machine gunners was essential for the survival of the bomber crews and the success of their missions, even if their individual success rates in shooting down enemy planes were relatively modest. However, heroic actions of USAF machine gunners during WWII are numerous and what follows is an example. Staff Sergeant Maynard Harrison Smith served as a ball turret gunner on a B-17 Flying Fortress during World War II. On May 1, 1943, his aircraft was attacked by numerous German fighters during a mission over France. Smith's aircraft sustained heavy damage, and the tail section was severed, leaving the plane in imminent danger of breaking apart. Despite this, Smith remained at his position, providing covering fire and protecting the crew. He refused to abandon his post until ordered to do so as the aircraft began to disintegrate. Smith's dedication and selflessness earned him the Medal of Honor.
FIELD HOSPITAL
FIELD HOSPITAL is a Special US Order that costs 5 Kredits to play. When played, you fully repair each friendly unit and draw a card for each unit repaired.
Historical Context
During WWII, US field hospitals played a crucial role in providing medical care to wounded soldiers on the front lines. These field hospitals were mobile units designed to provide emergency medical treatment and stabilize injured personnel before they could be transported to more extensive medical facilities. The United States made several notable contributions and innovations in the field of military medicine during the war. For example the first trials of Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH) were established by the U.S. Army, which was a significant innovation. These mobile surgical hospitals brought advanced surgical capabilities closer to the front lines, reducing the time between injury and surgical intervention. Another innovation was Blood Plasma and Component Therapy which the US military played a crucial role in developing and implementing during the war. This development significantly improved the management of casualties and contributed to better outcomes. It's important to note that while the United States made significant contributions in these areas, other nations also made important advancements in military medicine during WWII. Also note that many medical professionals and researchers from various countries worked together and independently to improve the care and outcomes for wounded soldiers.
MATSUMOTO REGIMENT
The MATSUMOTO REGIMENT is a Special Japanese Infantry unit that costs 3 Kredits to deploy and 0 Kredits to operate. It has 3 attack, 4 defense, and deals 1 damage to the enemy HQ when a Destruction effect triggers.
Historical Context
The 50th Infantry Regiment (Matsumoto) was a unit of the 29th Division of the Imperial Japanese Army, which was active from 1941-1945. From 1941 the 29th division was tasked with the defense of the Liaoyang area in Manchukuo state of Manchuria, but in 1944 the majority of the division, which consisted of the 18th and 38th infantry regiments, was deployed to Guam island along with the 48th Independent Mixed Brigade. Meanwhile, smaller units were dispatched to Tinian and Rota islands. The Japanese garrison on Tinian consisted of approximately 9,000 soldiers, including the 50th Infantry Regiment and the 29th tank company, who were well-fortified and prepared for the American invasion. The Battle of Tinian began on July 24, 1944, with a massive bombardment of the island by the US Navy and Army Air Forces. The Japanese defenders, however, remained dug in and refused to surrender despite overwhelming odds. By 30 July the remnants of the defenders were holed up in caves and ravines on the south portion of the island. Realizing the futility of further resistance, Colonel Ogata ordered his forces to launch a massive banzai charge. This desperate attempt resulted in heavy casualties for the Japanese, but the battle continued for a few more days until organized resistance was effectively crushed on 3 August 1944. Only about 200 men of the Japanese garrison survived the fighting.
56th RECON
56th RECON is a Japanese Infantry unit of Limited rarity. It has 2 attack, 1 defense, costs 1 Kredit to play and 1 Kredit to operate. It has Intel 1 and the Destruction effect to deal 1 damage to each enemy unit.
Historical Context
The 56th Reconnaissance Regiment was a motorized unit of the 56th Division of the Imperial Japanese Army, which was active 1940-1945. Initially, the 56th Division was intended as reinforcements for the Japanese invasion of Malaya but was attached to the 25th Army and sent to Burma in March 1942. The Division played a significant role in the Battle of Toungoo, where it linked with the 55th Division, and forced the Chinese to evacuate the city, paving the way to the east. The 56th Division defeated the Chinese 6th Corps in several battles, including Mawchi, Bawlake, Bato, Taunggyi, and Loikaw. It advanced north through the Shan States, took the city of Lashio, and cut off much of the local Chinese Army from China, forcing the Allies to evacuate Burma. After May 1942, the 56th Division mostly performed garrison duties on the Yunnan border. In January 1944, the division participated in the Battle of Northern Burma and Western Yunnan campaign, where it played a significant role in shattering Merrill's Marauders in the Siege of Myitkyina and delaying the Chinese forces during the Battle of Mount Song. The Division suffered heavy losses and was removed from the front line in October 1944. On the day of the surrender of Japan, August 15, 1945, the division was stationed on the border between South Burma and Thailand.
YAK 9 PL
The YAK 9 PL is a Special Polish Fighter with Exile and Blitz abilities and grants Blitz to your Exile units. It has 3 attack, 5 defense, costs 4 Kredits to play and 2 Kredits to operate.
Historical Context
The Yakovlev Yak 9 was a Soviet fighter aircraft that played a significant role in the Soviet Air Force during WWII. It was a development of the earlier Yak 7 and Yak 1 fighters, incorporating improvements and modifications based on combat experience.The Yak 9 was designed by Alexander Yakovlev and entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1942. It was a versatile aircraft that saw action in various roles, including air superiority, ground attack, and escort missions. The aircraft was known for its agility, robustness, and adaptability. While the majority of the Polish Air Force was disbanded or incorporated into foreign air forces after the German and Soviet occupations of Poland, a significant number of Polish pilots managed to escape and join Allied air forces. Some of these Polish pilots, while serving in Soviet-controlled units, flew Soviet aircraft, including the Yak 9. The most notable example is the Air Force of the Polish Army which was created alongside the Polish People's Army, a subordinate to the Red Army. It was the primary Polish air force formation within the Polish Armed Forces in the East during WWII.
FIAT CR.32
The FIAT CR.32 is a Limited Italian Fighter that costs 2 Kredits to play and 1 Kredit to operate. It has 1 attack, 3 defense, and the effect that when your HQ gains defense, you fully repair a random friendly unit.
Historical Context
The FIAT CR.32 was an Italian biplane fighter aircraft that saw significant use during the interwar period and the early years of WWII. It was designed by the Italian manufacturer FIAT and entered service with the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) in 1933.
During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), the FIAT CR.32 gained its reputation as one of the best biplane fighters of its time. It demonstrated excellent maneuverability and agility, making it highly effective in aerial combat. Its robust construction and good diving capabilities also added to its combat ability. However, by the outbreak of WWII in 1939, the FIAT CR.32 was already becoming outdated compared to the monoplane fighters that other nations were deploying. It was gradually phased out of frontline service in the Regia Aeronautica, being replaced by more modern aircraft like the Macchi C.200 and C.202. During the early stages of the war, the FIAT CR.32 continued to see limited use by Italy and its allies and it was used in various combat theaters, including North Africa, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. By the mid-1940s, the FIAT CR.32 was mostly relegated to secondary roles, such as training, reconnaissance, and ground-attack missions. It was gradually phased out of service as more advanced aircraft became available. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that a few CR.32s remained in use until the end of the war in 1945.
Brothers in Arms Reveal Summary
Brothers in Arms has 92 new cards in total. Over the course of the next few weeks, leading up to the expansion release on June 27th, more and more cards will be revealed!
Check out the Brothers in Arms: Card Reveal Summary page for a weekly updated overview of the revealed cards.
Pre-Orders Available Now!
Pre-orders for the Brothers in Arms expansion are available in the in-game shop now!
Don’t miss out on our two special bundles, packed with card packs from the upcoming expansion at a hard-to-resist discount. Whether you’re an old hand or a fresh recruit, you’ll appreciate the bonus loot included in both bundles: the exclusive Brothers in Arms cardback and the stirring “Rendezvous with Destiny” emote, echoing the powerful motto of the US Army 101st Airborne Division.
All packs in pre-order bundles become available on June 23rd, a whole five days before the official release.
Keep your eyes on the horizon - we’ll be revealing new cards almost daily throughout the spoiler season. Stay locked in for more exciting reveals in the lead up to the launch!
