Take command of 150+ historic tanks in a free-to-play MMO where skill beats firepower
Munich, Germany – October 30th, 2026 – Independent developer Armative Studios today announced that Steel Aces, the free-to-play tank MMO focused on skill-based, historically authentic armoured warfare, has launched on its own proprietary platform, with the Steam version arriving early next week. Featuring realistic ballistics, component-based damage and tactical, line-of-sight combat, Steel Aces challenges players to master their vehicles and outmaneuver their opponents on the battlefield.
Following feedback from September’s Open Play Weekend, Steel Aces is entering Early Access with major improvements to its UI, vehicle handling, core physics and overall player experience. Reworked tracked vehicle traction, steering mechanics and engine simulation make tank handling more stable and responsive, while UI improvements provide clearer ammunition and loadout selection alongside a more readable in-game HUD. The team has also refined the vision system, gun dispersion, aiming statistics and vehicle progression paths, delivering a more polished, accessible and balanced tank warfare experience.
“We’re incredibly excited to finally put Steel Aces in the hands of players and welcome everyone to the battlefield,” said Michael Schmotz, CEO at Armative Studios. “This is a major milestone for our team, and we can’t wait for players to experience what we’ve been building and put their strategic skills to the test. We’ve poured a huge amount of passion and hard work into Steel Aces, and this launch marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we continue developing the game alongside our players and shaping its future together.”
About Steel Aces
Steel Aces is a free-to-play tank MMO where success is based on skill, not spending. Focused exclusively on tank-on-tank combat, battles are decided by tactics, positioning and player ability, with no player-controlled artillery or aircraft. There is no premium ammunition, pay-to-win mechanics or unfair RNG. Instead, genuine ballistics simulation and component-based damage mean that shot placement matters, rewarding players who understand their vehicles and know where to strike their opponents.
Spanning more than 100 years of armoured warfare, Steel Aces features over 150 historically authentic vehicles, from the Interwar Period and World War II through to the early Cold War. Developed in collaboration with military museums and partners with hands-on tank experience, the game combines historical authenticity with realistic line-of-sight combat. Players can progress through the ranks and unlock new vehicles, putting their knowledge, positioning and tactical skills to the test on the battlefield.
About Armative Studios
Steel Aces is proudly developed in Germany by a team of just three developers with a background in engineering, automotive and games. This gives a new perspective on a long-established franchise with a commitment to authenticity, technical excellence, and innovative gameplay. We are committed to “the tank game that never was”, with fair gameplay and monetisation aimed at long-term sustainability rather than short-term profits and gambling mechanics.
