GROUND BRANCH Chapter 1 Available Now: Deploy to the Persian Gulf

The free V1.1.0 update expands the Operations campaign with three new missions, HVT capture mechanics, civilian AI, and new equipment.

MicroProse today releases Chapter 1 for GROUND BRANCH, available now on Steam as part of the free V1.1.0 update. The next chapter of the tactical shooter’s Operations campaign takes players to the Persian Gulf, where three new missions introduce fresh objectives and new tactical considerations.

Deploying from a new aircraft carrier Ready Room, players will undertake missions across Docks, Rig, Tanker. Civilian presence and HVT capture mechanics demand careful target identification: civilians can raise alarms and flee for cover, while guarded high-value targets must be taken into custody and escorted once their security detail has been eliminated.

Update highlights include:

Three new Operations missions: Continue the campaign in the Persian Gulf across Docks, Rig, Tanker, with new objectives and mechanics.
Campaign-specific Ready Rooms: Prepare for Persian Gulf deployments aboard an aircraft carrier, or gear up in a local residence for the existing Northwest Pakistan hotspot.
Civilian AI and alarms: Civilians react to threats, activate alarm panels, and seek hiding places, adding new considerations to mission planning and execution.
HVT capture and escort: Secure high-value targets and direct them with squad commands. Escorted characters now match their escort’s stance and movement speed.
An expanded armory: Equip the U100 MK3 light machine gun, alongside the SV-98, optics, and attachments.
More character customization and interaction: Apply new face paint styles and use shoulder-tapping to communicate with teammates.
Animation, AI, and audio improvements: Updated enemy idle animations, refinements to character animation, and improved sound propagation through broken windows.

GROUND BRANCH combines deliberate tactical combat with extensive weapon and character customization. Tackle Operations as a solo operator or coordinate with other players in online co-op.