Chris InglisBroken Arrow is a large-scale real-time modern warfare tactics game developed by Steel Balalaika and published by Slitherine. It is shaping up to be a tactical strategy game that demands both precision and a healthy dose of adaptability when it launches mid-June 2025 on Steam. After diving into an early access demo build, I’m left with a strong impression: this is a game that understands the nuances of modern warfare, and offers a deep, engaging experience for strategy enthusiasts.
The tutorial is an excellent introduction to the complexities of Broken Arrow. It meticulously breaks down the diverse unit types, from infantry squads to heavy armour and aircraft, and showcases the devastating power of modern weaponry. You’re not just told about laser-guided munitions and bomb strafing runs; you’re shown how to effectively use them. I also really love the sound design. The boom from tank fire and the BRRRTTTTTTT from the A-10C Thunderbolt II’s are iconic and well represented in the game.
Admittedly, my first attempts at lining up those strafing runs on a moving target were terrible. I also struggled with stealthily moving a unit of infantry from the cover of forest through fields whilst avoiding patrolling tanks. After many attempts I finally succeeded, but it manages to slow you down to think tactically about how you can achieve the mission objectives. This focus on practical learning is a huge plus, ensuring players are well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead in the single and multiplayer modes at launch.
There is a loose storyline, mostly including banter between army staff as you travel by jeep between checkpoints, but it was a good enough distraction whilst driving. Double right-clicking a road allows your vehicle to follow clear roadways to the next point which I found to be an excellent feature when playing the first single player mission.
Interestingly, during my time with Broken Arrow, I had a sense of familiarity with how some units and the road mission felt like playing another Slitherine title, Terminator: Dark Fate – Defiance. This isn’t a negative; in fact, it speaks to Slitherine’s consistent approach to tactical strategy, delivering a robust and well-crafted experience. Fans of Terminator: Dark Fate will likely find themselves right at home with Broken Arrow.
The demo single player mission, Tank Run on Highway, threw me straight into the deep end. With a mission objective of ensuring vehicle losses were no more than four, I initially approached the engagement with cautious, deliberate tactics. The ability to hold left-ALT to see a visual representation of the enemy unit field of view is a game-changer. It allows you to strategically position your forces, utilising terrain and cover to gain a tactical advantage.
I carefully scouted enemy positions, deployed APCs with infantry to secure flanks, and positioned my tanks for devastating crossfire. But, as it turns out, old habits die hard. My inner RTS veteran, honed on the tank rushes of Command & Conquer: Red Alert and Total Annihilation, eventually took over. The careful planning devolved into a full-blown armoured assault as I called in reinforcements to cover the back lines as enemy spawn points were utilised.
The result? A glorious, if somewhat reckless, victory. I may have lost 21 vehicles (far exceeding the mission objective), but the enemy was obliterated. It was a testament to the game’s flexibility – even a chaotic, brute-force approach can be effective, though perhaps not the most efficient.
Broken Arrow is undeniably promising, and the strategic and tactical gameplay is deep and engaging. The sheer variety of units and weapons, combined with the dynamic battlefield, creates a rich and immersive experience. However, some rough edges remain, reminiscent of the multiplayer tests Yonan played in 2023. While these don’t detract from the core gameplay, they do highlight areas that could use further polish.
Specifically, some quality-of-life improvements would be welcome. Streamlining the UI, refining unit pathfinding and controls could enhance the overall experience. Despite these minor issues, Broken Arrow has solidified its place as one of my most anticipated strategy games. The depth of its gameplay, the attention to detail, and the sheer scale of the battles are truly impressive.
With a launch date set for June 2025, there’s still plenty of time for the developers to refine the game and address any remaining issues. I’m eager to see how Broken Arrow evolves between now and then, and I’m confident that it will deliver an exceptional strategy experience.
This preview utilised a key provided by Slitherine and Broken Arrow is set for release on Steam around mid-June 2025.
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