The tank hatches are closing, the snow is falling, and a very familiar voice is issuing orders over the radio. Wargaming has today launched Holiday Ops 2026 for World of Tanks, and this year’s festivities are being led by none other than the world-famous actor, Benedict Cumberbatch.
Running from today until January 12th, 2026, this massive winter event brings a touch of Hollywood class to the battlefield.
Players on PC (no console love for this one) can jump in right now to experience a new Holiday Village, earn exclusive rewards, and even recruit Mr. Cumberbatch himself as a tank commander.
From Action Hero to Strategic Tactician
World of Tanks has built a fantastic tradition of securing A-list talent for its holiday events. Last year, we saw the legendary Jason Statham take the helm for Holiday Ops 2025, bringing his signature high-octane energy to the game.
For 2026, the tone has shifted from gritty action to refined strategy. Benedict Cumberbatch brings his “trademark wit, intelligence, and subtle humour” to the role, acting as a calm and guiding presence for tankers. It’s a perfect contrast to last year’s explosive antics, proving that there’s more than one way to command a tank.
Welcome to the Holiday Village
Upon entering the game, you won’t just be greeted by explosions; you’ll be whisked away to a dazzling Holiday Village. This cozy hub features a dynamic day-night cycle, where daylight reveals snowy scenes and nightfall ignites the sky with fireworks and fairy lights.
Just for logging in and entering the village, every tanker will receive their first gift: the Strv M/31, a Tier III Swedish light tank that comes complete with a fully trained crew and a garage slot.
Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It
The event is centred around the Holiday Ops Challenge, featuring 56 battle missions for you to conquer. By visiting the Village Headquarters, you can receive special assignments directly from Benedict himself. He’ll offer bits of life wisdom and inspiring stories as you complete tasks to earn his signature customisation items.
If you complete the challenges, the rewards are substantial. You can earn unique decals, the military-inspired “Resolute” 2D style, and a set of collectible 3D attachments known as Benedict’s Gadgets.
The ultimate prize, however, is recruiting Benedict Cumberbatch as a tank commander. He comes with a unique voiceover that guides rather than barks orders, acting as a “calm, strategic tactician” for your crew.
Magic Tanks and Winter Raids
The fun doesn’t stop at the village gates. From December 11th to December 22nd, the Winter Raid game mode returns. This fast-paced mode sees three teams of five competing to collect and deliver presents across two brand-new maps: a Deep Space arena filled with planets and stars, and a Gift Factory turned combat zone.
In this mode, you’ll take control of unique magic tanks, each with their own special roles and abilities. Points earned here can be exchanged for bonds and exclusive 3D attachments.
The holiday season is officially open for business. Whether you’re there for the strategic tank combat or just to have Doctor Strange himself tell you “good shot,” Holiday Ops 2026 is a festive event you won’t want to miss.
The event is live on PC right now. You will of course need World of Tanks in your digital library. But it’s free to download from the usual storefronts, like that of the Xbox Store if you want to play on Xbox.
Edit:
Turns out that the World of Tanks Holiday Ops 2026 is limited to PC only, not – as we originally stated – for Xbox and PlayStation.
Apologies. Article amended to suit.
