This is a hardcore military-grade simulator. First off its hefty price tag ($125.00 as of this posting) is going to put a large majority of average gamers off. SBPE is going to appeal to a small group. Looking for a tactical RTS? You can run an entire battle from the map if you so desire, essentially giving you two games in one. Through the use of NATO standardized tactical symbols players can plan and execute complicated combined arms operations.
Quite often I found myself back at the map screen adapting my strategy to my enemy’s tactics.
An amazing mixture of civilians and military personnel from all over the globe, the Steel Beasts community is a bit more mature so there’s no need to fear being flamed when asking what key switches your ammo in the forums.Ĭontinuing the fine tradition of the original Steel Beasts which won Sim of The Year back in 2000, this game combines not only a tank simulator but a tactical simulator too. Already there are custom scenarios, vehicle skins, and guides posted on the net. For the last six years the original Steel Beasts has had an active community, and with this release it is shaping up to be even better. And that in itself is one thing that makes this game different from the others. If you run into problems, the Steel Beasts Forums are the best place to turn. To play the game you will need a free USB port, as the key has to be plugged in for the game to run.
Using a USB based system, this was enough for me to break out the manual and follow the install directions (something I never, ever do). The first thing that struck me about the game (calling it a game doesn’t do it justice) is the copy protection. If you’ve ever been in a simcenter this will look vaguely familiar.
Not meant to replace full blown multimillion dollar simulators, Steel Beasts Pro Personal Edition (hereafter known as SBPE) allows your average treadheads and armchair generals to work their skills on PC’s at home. As a matter of fact, the big brother to this game, Steel Beasts Professional, is currently in use by the Australian, New Zealand, and Danish Armies. Just as I thought I could break it and be happy with arcadish FPS games, Steel Beasts Pro Personal Edition comes along.ĮSim Games has developed a niche in the simulator market by developing highly realistic, low overhead simulators for the military and ultra realistic games. From the original M1 Tank Platoon and it’s sequel, through the Armored Fist Series, and all the iterations of Panzer this and that, I’ve fed my off duty addiction to armored warfare. And as almost a guilty confession, I’ve owned and played the majority of tank sims out there.
I’ve lived, eaten, slept, and breathed tracks for the last 22 years. I’m Arkane (Donald Pence in the real world) and I’m a treadhead. Steel Beasts Pro Personal Edition – Game Review (PC) By Donald Pence