Broken Arrow is a real-time tactics (RTT) and real-time strategy (RTS) hybrid for PC, developed by Steel Balalaika and published by Slitherine. Set in a contemporary military theater, it offers an expansive and highly customizable warfare experience, blending tactical precision with strategic planning across land, sea, and air. Designed to cater to fans of complex military simulators and fast-paced battlefield management, Broken Arrow aims to position itself among genre-defining titles like Wargame: Red Dragon, World in Conflict, and WARNO, while introducing fresh mechanics and modernization.
Setting and Scope
Broken Arrow takes place in a fictional modern-day conflict between the United States and Russia. The game features authentic military technology, realistic maps inspired by Eastern Europe, and detailed unit interactions that reflect real-world tactical doctrines. The scale is vast, encompassing squad-based infantry combat, armored columns, helicopter insertions, naval support, and jet fighter sorties.
The battlefield is a dynamic environment. Players can engage in operations ranging from urban warfare in dense cityscapes to amphibious assaults on industrial harbors and forest-based ambushes in rural terrain. Each type of environment demands different tactical approaches, encouraging players to constantly adapt their strategies. Terrain elevation, foliage, line of sight, and destructible structures all play a role in shaping the outcome of engagements.
Faction and Unit Variety
At launch, Broken Arrow includes two major factions: the United States and the Russian Federation. Each faction has unique units, doctrines, and customization options. The U.S. arsenal includes specialized units such as Marines, Airborne infantry, Stryker brigades, and Special Operations Forces, each offering distinctive capabilities. Russia counters with mechanized units, VDV airborne troops, naval infantry, and elite Spetsnaz forces.
One of the game’s standout features is its deep roster of units—over 300 in total, with roughly 200+ ground units and 80+ aircraft. Each unit is modeled on real-world hardware, from main battle tanks like the M1A2 Abrams and T-90, to helicopters such as the AH-64 Apache and Ka-52 Alligator, and aircraft like the F-35 and Su-57. Naval and logistical assets also make an appearance, providing support and strategic options during large-scale operations.
Deck Building and Customization
What sets Broken Arrow apart from other RTS titles is its deck-building mechanic. Before entering a match, players construct a custom “deck” of units that defines their strategic playstyle. Decks are organized into categories like Recon, Infantry, Armor, Support, Helicopter, Airplanes, and Logistics. Each category includes dozens of units, with players selecting a balanced or specialized set to deploy during battles.
Customization goes far beyond unit selection. Individual units can be modified with different weapons, armor types, sensor packages, and countermeasures. For example, a tank might be upgraded with reactive armor or infrared jammers. Infantry units can be outfitted with thermobaric grenades, anti-tank weapons, or smoke launchers. Aircraft can be configured with a variety of payloads—missiles, flares, bombs, or fuel tanks. This level of granularity allows players to create unique combinations tailored to specific battlefield roles or tactical preferences.
These choices matter. A customized infantry squad with anti-armor capabilities can make the difference between holding a city block or being overrun. Similarly, aircraft equipped for air superiority can dominate the skies but may lack the payload to support ground units. The depth of customization ensures high replayability and diverse strategies, making each match feel distinct.
Gameplay Mechanics
Broken Arrow is played in real time, with players managing multiple units across large maps. Battles often involve simultaneous engagements across different fronts. Success hinges on effective unit positioning, combined arms coordination, and timely support.
The combat loop emphasizes reconnaissance, positioning, and timing. Recon units, including UAVs and scout vehicles, are essential for detecting enemy movements and avoiding ambushes. Infantry are key in urban environments, where they can garrison buildings, lay ambushes, and use cover effectively. Tanks dominate open terrain but are vulnerable without infantry support. Artillery and logistics units provide indirect fire and resupply capabilities, keeping front-line troops effective over time.
Air power plays a critical role in turning the tide of battle. Helicopters can deploy troops behind enemy lines or conduct precision strikes, while fighter jets can eliminate enemy air defenses or intercept bombers. However, air units are expensive and require protection, as they are vulnerable to anti-aircraft systems and interceptors.
Logistics is another layer of strategic depth. Units consume ammunition and fuel, and can become ineffective without timely resupply. Players must manage supply routes, call in cargo helicopters or trucks, and ensure that forward units remain operational. This creates a constant interplay between offense, defense, and resource management.
Game Modes and Replayability
Broken Arrow features a variety of gameplay modes, including:
- Single-Player Campaign: Narrative-driven missions with scripted objectives, designed to teach core mechanics while telling a story of geopolitical conflict.
- Skirmish Mode: AI-controlled battles with customizable parameters.
- Multiplayer: Online modes supporting 1v1, 2v2, and up to 5v5 matches. Team coordination and role specialization are crucial in large matches.
- Scenario Editor: A robust mission editor allows players to create custom scenarios with scripted events, triggers, cutscenes, and objectives. Missions can be shared via Steam Workshop, encouraging community content creation.
The variety of modes ensures that players of all preferences can find something engaging—whether they enjoy competitive matches, cooperative gameplay, or sandbox-style experimentation.
Interface and Performance
Early feedback on Broken Arrow has been mixed regarding the user interface and performance. Some players have criticized the UI as clunky and unintuitive, especially when managing large groups of units or executing complex commands like air support and artillery barrages. There have also been reports of framerate drops and optimization issues, particularly during large-scale battles with dozens of units on-screen.
That said, the core engine, built in Unity, handles large maps and detailed unit models fairly well. The game supports zooming from strategic overviews down to individual units, offering a cinematic and informative perspective of the battlefield. Developers have acknowledged community concerns and are working on updates and patches to improve responsiveness and clarity.
Visual and Audio Design
Visually, Broken Arrow aims for realism rather than stylization. Unit models are detailed and accurately depict their real-world counterparts. Explosions, gunfire, and vehicle movement are accompanied by realistic effects. The game’s environments are varied—ranging from snow-covered fields to urban industrial zones—with destructible buildings and dynamic lighting.
The sound design supports the immersion. Gunfire echoes through city streets, tanks rumble across asphalt, and helicopters whir overhead. Radio chatter, vehicle engines, and impact sounds create an atmosphere of modern conflict that pulls the player into the action.
Strengths
- High unit variety and customization: Players can build unique armies tailored to specific strategies.
- Realistic combat mechanics: Combined arms warfare, logistics, and reconnaissance are vital for success.
- Large-scale maps: Offers the feel of a true modern battlefield.
- Community tools: Scenario editor and mod support promote long-term engagement.
- Strong thematic immersion: From unit behavior to visuals, the game captures the chaos of modern war.
Weaknesses
- Clunky UI: The interface requires polish for better clarity and responsiveness.
- Performance optimization: Some players report lag during intensive battles.
- Steep learning curve: The depth of mechanics can be overwhelming for newcomers.
- Balance issues: Early versions have shown imbalance between unit types, especially air units and fragile infantry.
Conclusion
Broken Arrow is a bold and ambitious RTS that blends tactical depth with large-scale strategy in a modern military setting. It aims to satisfy both hardcore strategy enthusiasts and those looking for a visually immersive battlefield experience. While it still needs refinement—especially in terms of UI and optimization—its core systems are robust and offer tremendous depth.
For players who love planning intricate operations, customizing military hardware, and managing the chaos of real-time warfare, Broken Arrow delivers an experience that few modern games attempt. With continued developer support and community engagement, it has the potential to become a mainstay in the genre, standing proudly alongside classics like Wargame, Steel Division, and World in Conflict.
