THQ today announced a sequel to Company of Heroes, their popular World War II RTS, entitled Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts. The game will ship in Fall 2007, and developer Relic Entertainment will use their enhanced Essence Engine and Microsoft’s DirectX 10 to power the game.

In Opposing Fronts, players have the option to play as the British Second Army or the German Panzer Elite during post-D-Day operations like “Market Garden”. And because Opposing Fronts is compatible with Company of Heroes, players who own Company of Heroes will have four factions to choose from.

“With two intensely cinematic campaigns, significant upgrades to the Essence Engine, mission persistence, improved vehicle AI and weather effects that directly impact the battlefield, we’re delivering yet again on our commitment to leading the way in strategic gaming with the best, most innovative titles available,” said Tarrnie Williams, general manager, Relic Entertainment.

I believe Tarrnie. Company of Heroes broke new ground for RTS gaming, so it’s not Relic putting itself on a pedestal. And hearing about improved vehicle AI makes me giddy. Vehicle intelligence was my one quarrel with Company of Heroes (tanks commanded to move in groups would often collide with each other and go nowhere). It’ll also be interesting to see how Relic factors in weather to affect game dynamics.

I can’t wait. If Relic sticks with it, we’ll have another great game on our hands just in time for the holidays!