Steel (video game)

Steel is a real-time strategy (RTS) video game developed by independent studio Nomadic Realities and published in 2000 by TalonSoft. The game is a historical simulation focused on armored warfare during the hypothetical World War III scenario.

Gameplay in Steel revolves around controlling individual vehicles and infantry squads in a combined arms environment. Players command a variety of units from NATO and Warsaw Pact nations, including tanks, armored personnel carriers, helicopters, and anti-aircraft vehicles. Unit realism is a key design feature, with factors like armor penetration, line of sight, and crew experience affecting combat outcomes.

Steel features a scenario-based campaign mode as well as a skirmish mode allowing players to set up custom battles. The game is notable for its realistic ballistics modeling and its focus on tactical depth over fast-paced action, distinguishing it from more arcade-style RTS titles. Players must carefully manage their units, consider terrain, and utilize combined arms tactics to succeed.