Steel Panthers

Steel Panthers has become a very popular World War II and modern warfare strategy series. Originally released in the middle nineties by strategy gurus Strategic Simulations, Inc., Steel Panthers quickly rose in popularity among war gamers and is still popular today. It has seen numerous expansions and sequels since its inception, and also has a web site designed to provide current information on progressive Steel Panthers games.
The original Steel Panthers was a tactical-level war strategy game that was turn-based as opposed to real time.

The game can be played versus another person or against a rather competent AI, as well as via an e-mail connection. At the beginning of each game, players receive a predetermined number of units that are statistically accurate, according to history. They have to choose between leading the American, British, Russian or German forces. Players can then purchase more units or upgrade those already owned by distributing points the player has earned through completing tasks and missions. Units are then moved onto the tile-based hexagonal maps and play begins. There are many units from which to choose, beginning with basic units but progressing as time moves and experience is gained. The number of available units lends to this game’s complexity, as finding the appropriate balance takes practice as well as insight.
The missions are usually simple. Gamers are given a number of strategic locations that must be taken and held for the duration of the scenario. They may also be charged with assaulting a specific target, delaying the arrival of an enemy unit or engaging the enemy on the battlefield. After each skirmish, points are awarded so that troops can improve or be repaired in the event of heavy damage.
While Steel Panthers is not the most complex war strategy and does not contain mass micromanagement opportunities, it is a really good “beer and pretzels” strategy game. The graphics are average and do not draw from the game play itself, and the sound features are okay. It is entertaining, but not so difficult as to frustrate. Plus, with the many available options, this game has endless possibilities and can be played again and again. In short, download it now, and start defending the world.