World of Warships at 10: A Decade of Naval Combat Dominance
Last Updated: October 27, 2025
A decade on the digital high seas is a monumental achievement, and Wargaming's flagship naval combat simulator, World of Warships, is charting a course toward this incredible milestone. Launched on September 17, 2015, the free-to-play title has not only survived but thrived in the competitive live-service landscape.
As it approaches its 10th anniversary, we look back at the game's extensive history, its evolution from a straightforward surface gunnery duel to a complex multi-layered battlefield, and what its enduring legacy means for the future.
A Decade of Unrivaled Naval Combat
Ten years is an eternity in gaming. Yet, World of Warships has remained a steadfast presence by cultivating a dedicated global community of naval history enthusiasts and tactical gamers. Its success lies in a unique formula: the methodical, deliberate pace of large-scale naval engagements, meticulous historical detail across a roster of over 600 vessels, and the sheer spectacle of massive warships clashing in beautifully rendered oceanic environments. This upcoming 10th-anniversary milestone is not just a celebration for the developers but a testament to the loyal player base that has navigated its waters, adapted to its ever-changing tides, and cemented its place in gaming history.
Charting a Course Through History
The journey from its 2015 launch to today is a story of constant evolution. Any long-term player can trace the game's development through its most significant milestones, which have repeatedly redefined the strategic landscape.
Initially focused on the iconic fleets of the U.S. and Japan, the game quickly expanded to include the formidable German battleships, versatile Royal Navy cruisers, and the powerful Soviet fleet. However, the most game-altering changes came with the introduction of entirely new dimensions of warfare. The controversial but transformative aircraft carrier rework shifted carriers from a top-down RTS-style command to direct, action-oriented control. More recently, the full implementation of submarines introduced a stealthy, sub-surface threat that forced players to master new tactics like depth charges and hydroacoustic searches.
Beyond these foundational shifts, Wargaming has consistently expanded the game's scope with new tech trees for nations like France, Italy, and Pan-European fleets, alongside innovative ship lines like Dutch cruisers with their airstrike capabilities and Pan-American cruisers. Landmark collaborations with brands like Warhammer 40,000, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Transformers have brought fantastical elements to the historical setting, while partnerships with anime like Azur Lane and Arpeggio of Blue Steel have resonated deeply with segments of the player base.
The Evolving Tides of Modern Warfare
Maintaining player engagement for a decade requires a constant re-evaluation of the core experience. The "meta" of World of Warships today is a world away from its early days. The game has grown vertically with the addition of "Superships," representing post-war designs and theoretical projects that sit above the traditional Tier X cap. Hybrid ships, which blend the roles of conventional warships with aircraft squadrons, have further blurred the lines between classes.
This evolution extends to the game's economy and progression systems. The Commander skills system has been overhauled, early access events have become the standard for releasing new ship lines, and annual anniversary events have become a beloved tradition. Players have come to expect generous rewards during these celebrations, including Supercontainers, special missions, and celebratory "birthday" gifts that grant valuable in-game items based on the number of years they've played.
Anchors Aweigh for the Future
While a 10th anniversary is a moment for reflection, it also sets the stage for what comes next. By celebrating its past, World of Warships reaffirms its commitment to the journey ahead. The conclusion of each anniversary celebration is less of an ending and more of a turning point. It’s a moment for the developers and the community to collectively acknowledge the incredible voyage thus far before turning their spyglasses to the horizon. As the community anticipates the historic 10th anniversary, the unspoken question is clear: what will the next decade of naval warfare bring? For now, captains can prepare for the upcoming festivities, a well-deserved victory lap celebrating ten years of strategy, history, and explosive naval combat.