Steel Division 2 Nemesis Storming Toulon is a strategy simulation that adds two new battlegroups to the World War II real-time tactics experience on PC. It centers on the Allied invasion of southern France during Operation Dragoon in the summer of 1944, with a focus on the battle for the port of Toulon. Players command either the multinational Free French 1e Division Française Libre or the ad hoc German Verteidigungsbereich Toulon garrison in detailed unit-based engagements.
Gameplay
The core loop involves deploying and managing a wide array of infantry, artillery, and support units across maps that represent the urban and coastal terrain around Toulon. The 1e Division Française Libre draws on veteran troops from multiple nationalities, including elite Légionnaires, Sapeurs-Pionniers, Polynesian soldiers, Commando d'Afrique special forces, North African Tirailleurs, and Senegalese Tirailleurs. These forces emphasize strong infantry performance and air support options such as the P-47D Thunderbolt, B-26G Marauder, and F-5B-1 Lightning, along with British carrier-borne aircraft like the Hellcat, Wildcat, and Seafire. New vehicles include the M6 Fargo light truck with a 37mm anti-tank gun and the M10 RCA tank destroyer used in a standard tank role.
The opposing Verteidigungsbereich Toulon battlegroup fields a mix of regular Grenadiere, Kriegsmarine Marineinfanterie, Marine-Einsatzkommando 71, stranded U-boat crews, Brandenburg special forces, and Italian San Marco naval infantry. It excels in artillery and anti-air capabilities with weapons such as the heavy Flak 38 105mm guns, Flakzwilling 37mm, and Pak 36(r) 76.2mm. The battlegroup also introduces the Panzerstellung defensive emplacements in three variants: Panzerstellung Panzer II, Panzerstellung 35R, and Panzerstellung 35S. These static tank turrets mounted on concrete casemates strengthen defensive positions but limit the force in offensive maneuvers.
Game Modes
Players can use the new battlegroups in skirmish matches against AI, cooperative play, or online multiplayer. The DLC integrates directly with existing modes, including Breakthrough, where the new Axis Panzerstellung defenses become available for deployment. Other supported formats cover standard competitive and cooperative scenarios without introducing new rule sets.
The Battlegroups in Action
The 1e Division Française Libre performs best in aggressive infantry advances supported by air power, though it operates with limited armored or artillery assets. Verteidigungsbereich Toulon suits prolonged defensive stands through its infantry variety and gun emplacements but struggles when forced into mobile attacks. Both sides bring historically researched units that reflect the rapid Allied advance and the bitter urban fighting that ended with Toulon's liberation on August 20, 1944.
Is It Worth Playing?
This expansion suits players who enjoy detailed World War II strategy simulations with an emphasis on combined arms and specific historical scenarios. It provides fresh infantry-focused options and defensive tools for those already familiar with the base game systems. Reception has been mixed according to available reviews, with some players noting limitations in the new static defenses. Those seeking additional variety in battlegroup composition and the Operation Dragoon setting will find the content relevant, while others may prefer broader updates to the core experience.
