Hell Let Loose: Vietnam Launches — Helicopters, Jungle Tunnels, and a New Theatre of War

by Geth Author

Hell Let Loose: Vietnam launched August 13, 2026 on PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, Microsoft Store) and consoles (PS5 and Xbox Series X|S), marking the franchise's first standalone spinoff — and its first step outside World War II.

The original Hell Let Loose built its reputation on ruthlessly authentic large-scale infantry combat: 100 players per server, asymmetric roles enforced by design, supply lines that actually matter, and no hand-holding waypoints. Vietnam carries all of that forward while replacing the Western Front with the jungles of Southeast Asia.

What's Actually New

Three additions define the Vietnam theatre and change the tactical rhythm significantly:

  • Helicopters — used for troop transport and close air support, making vertical movement a genuine tactical option for the first time in the franchise
  • Patrol boats — river-based combat on jungle maps that push into waterway control and amphibious assaults
  • Buildable tunnel networks — defenders can construct hidden resupply and respawn infrastructure that attackers must find and destroy, directly mirroring the historical Cu Chi tunnel system and similar networks from the conflict

The factions are the US Armed Forces against the North Vietnamese Army. The weapon sandbox changes dramatically: M16s, M60 machine guns, M79 grenade launchers, and M72 LAWs on one side; AK-47s, RPG-7s, and RPD machine guns on the other.

The Delay Was Worth It

The game had been pushed from its original June 18 release date. Team17 cited player feedback from beta sessions — specifically around weapon balance and jungle visibility. Dense foliage was producing situations where enemies were functionally invisible at close range, undermining the intended gameplay loop. Both issues were addressed before the final launch.

Who It's For

For veterans of the original game, Vietnam is familiar enough to jump into immediately while offering enough new mechanics to feel distinct. For new players, the combined learning curve of team-based tactical play plus an unfamiliar map and weapon set is steep — but that difficulty is intentional and is most of the appeal.

Hell Let Loose: Vietnam is available now as a standalone purchase. The original Hell Let Loose remains a separate title on all platforms.