Yesterday saw the release of a new map for Dawn of War III - Manufactorum! We had a chat with Principal Artist Tristan and Designer Benjamin to discuss the inspiration behind the new map. And of course, they’ll share tips on how to best your enemies in the newest field of battle!
ARE THERE ANY COOL DETAILS OF THE MAP THAT YOU’D LIKE TO POINT OUT?
Tristan: The interconnected troughs of molten metal provide nice markers and stunning vistas in the short break between the chaotic battles taking place. The interior setting provides a unique look from other maps in Dawn of War III, and we can’t wait to hear what you think.
Ben: There are also the wide critical paths connecting base to base, but tight corridors give you plenty of flanking options along each path. Take full advantage of them to outplay your opponents.
MANUFACTORUM CAN BE PLAYED 2v2 or 3v3. DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR PLAYERS TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF EACH VARIANT?
Ben: The map was originally designed purely for 2v2, but it became obvious through playtests that it felt large enough to support 3v3 games. What’s great about its natural evolution into 3v3 is that most 3v3 games on Manufactorum will end up with larger head-on clashes, whereas the 2v2 games feature smaller battles and more use of the flanking routes. It’s been fun to play on Manufactorum with these different style of gameplay, and it was fun to design it one way and find it had a bit of a mind of its own.
WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION FOR THE LOOK AND DESIGN OF MANUFACTORUM?
Tristan: The look is inspired by forge elements used to produce the war machines used by House Varlock. Molten metal, crucibles, refineries and promethium generators mounted inside the massive Manufactorum all come together in this grimdark setting.
DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS FOR PLAYERS AS THEY PLAY THEIR FIRST MATCH ON MANUFACTORUM?
Ben: Although the right side of the map has two Elite points, the left has a bit more resources - so don’t become too focused on one side over the other. Try to balance your forces and coordinate a push on both sides of the map. But if you really want to focus on one side of the map, building forward bases on the high ground in the middle will make it much easier to hold your position.