Benedict Cumberbatch Trades Avengers for WWII Warfare in Festive New Project

It’s time to say “tanks” very much and a very “Merrydict Christmasbatch” to all of you, as Wargaming is kicking off the holiday season with a prestige-level gift for World of Tanks fans. Beginning December 5, the studio’s annual Holiday Ops event returns—and this year, it arrives with a certain charismatic British commander in tow. Wargaming has officially announced that Benedict Cumberbatch will headline Holiday Ops 2026, stepping into the game as its newest celebrity ambassador and playable tank commander, following in the footsteps of Jason Statham, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Milla Jovovich.

Beginning December 5, 2025, and running through January 12, 2026, Holiday Ops 2026 will offer players a “magical winter adventure” packed with themed missions, festive rewards, and premium surprises. At the heart of it all is Cumberbatch — known for his sharp intellect, iconic roles in Sherlock to Doctor Strange — who appears in the holiday garage to guide players with bespoke challenges and charismatic commentary. Players can earn exclusive celebrity-themed rewards, including Cumberbatch’s full in-game likeness as a tank commander, complete with original voice lines recorded specifically for the event. Cumberbatch said:

“I’m thrilled to be part of World of Tanks’ Holiday Ops this year. It’s a game that celebrates strategy, teamwork, and thinking a few steps ahead. I really enjoyed collaborating with the team and bringing a new flavor to that world — along with a bit of festive spirit. Wishing all the players a fantastic holiday season.”

What Else Can We Expect From ‘World of Tanks’?

Alongside the in-game experience, Wargaming continues its tradition of releasing a new Holiday Ops short film — and this year’s may be its most whimsical yet. The story follows Sebastian, a shy office worker hopelessly smitten with his coworker, Sarah, yet entirely unable to muster the courage to speak to her. Cue Cumberbatch, who plays a witty, off-kilter therapist guiding Sebastian through a series of strange exercises designed to build confidence — with a little help from World of Tanks, which remains one of the most successful free-to-play games in the world, with more than 800 historically inspired vehicles and over a decade of ongoing expansions and events.

World of Tanks: Holiday Ops 2026 launches December 5 on PC and console. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on all your favorites across the holiday season.