Broken Arrow

Developer: Steel Balalaika
Release: Jun 19th 2025
Platforms:
Strategy
Customizable
Multiplayer
No Save Feature
Bugs
Unfinished
Broken Arrow Poster

" Immersive real-time strategy with deep unit customization but frustrating no mid-mission save "

Broken Arrow Review

Broken Arrow is a modern warfare RTS that has garnered a mixed reception, praised for its deep unit customization and engaging multiplayer gameplay but criticized for its underdeveloped single-player and PvE experiences. The game shines in 5v5 multiplayer matches, offering tactical depth, diverse factions, and a dynamic scoring system that allows comebacks. Players appreciate the modern setting, unit variety, and modding potential through Steam Workshop.

However, many reviews highlight significant drawbacks, including the lack of a mid-mission save feature, long and challenging campaign missions without pause, and limited PvE options—especially the inability to play solo against AI or have AI teammates. Technical issues such as optimization problems, crashes, disconnects in multiplayer, and bugs in campaign missions further detract from the experience. While the developers have shown responsiveness in addressing some concerns, the game feels unfinished and is often described as needing more polish and content expansion, particularly for single-player fans.

Highlights

Players praise the unit customization system, allowing tailored loadouts and upgrades that enhance strategic depth. The multiplayer 5v5 mode is lauded for its engaging gameplay, balanced factions, and dynamic victory point system promoting tactical play and comebacks.

The graphics and sound design receive positive remarks, with an immersive modern warfare atmosphere and an amazing soundtrack. The game's potential for modding and scenario creation through Steam Workshop is also a highlight, promising extended replayability and community-driven content.

Many enjoy the game's resemblance to classic RTS titles like World in Conflict, appreciating its fresh approach to modern military strategy.

Criticisms

A major criticism is the lack of mid-mission save and pause functionality in single-player and PvE modes, making long missions frustrating and inaccessible for players with limited time. The PvE content is sparse and underdeveloped, with no AI teammates and restrictive skirmish options that force multiplayer participation.

Technical issues such as performance problems, crashes, and frequent multiplayer disconnects have been reported, alongside bugs in campaign missions that sometimes render them unplayable. The campaign story and voice acting are considered weak and unpolished. Additionally, some players note a Russian faction bias and balancing issues that affect competitive fairness.

The game's price point is viewed as high given the current content and polish level, with many recommending waiting for updates or discounts.

Pros

  • Deep and flexible unit customization enhances gameplay variety and strategy.
  • Engaging 5v5 multiplayer mode with dynamic victory conditions and comeback potential.
  • Modern warfare setting with detailed units and satisfying tactical interactions.
  • Excellent soundtrack that complements the immersive combat experience.
  • Modding support and scenario editor foster community content creation.
  • Stable frame rates in many cases with generally good graphics quality.
  • Developers responsive to community feedback and quick to patch issues.

Cons

  • No mid-mission save or pause in single-player and PvE modes frustrates players.
  • PvE content lacking AI teammates and custom game options at launch.
  • Campaign missions are long, difficult, and sometimes buggy or unplayable.
  • Performance issues and crashes reported, especially during cutscenes.
  • Frequent multiplayer disconnects and reports of cheaters disrupt gameplay.
  • Campaign story and voice acting are weak and detract from immersion.
  • Balancing issues including perceived Russian faction bias in multiplayer.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Broken Arrow is a large-scale real-time modern warfare tactics game. A unique army building system and deep units customization tools allow for endless replayability. With 300+ realistic military units and technologies, each battle is more immersive than ever before.

Release Date Jun 19th 2025
Publisher Slitherine Ltd.
Developer Steel Balalaika
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (3,539)
77% Positive 23% Negative