Desert Steel

About this board game

Desert Steel is a two-player tactical board game with an approximately 240-minute playing time, focused on platoon- and company-level combat. Released in 1989, it is the third game in West End Games’ Tank Leader series.

Formations are activated by playing Command cards, making command, control, and communications central to every decision. These cards determine the order of movement and combat, while also supporting rallying and group cohesion during the battle.

Desert Steel delivers a deep Panzerblitz-style experience that combines command with unit experience, morale, and doctrine. The game was designed by the same designer who created Squad Leader, and it won the 1990 Charles Roberts Award for Best WWII Board Game.

• Tactical scale: Play at the platoon and company level.
• Command system: Use formation-based Command cards to shape movement, combat, rallying, and cohesion.
• Variable terrain: Scenario definitions determine roads, contours, towns, and ground quality across the two maps.
• Ground conditions: Sand, rocks, and rubble can define the battlefield for each scenario.

Rather than relying only on unit strength, the game emphasizes how effectively formations can be directed and maintained under pressure. The combination of communications, morale, experience, and doctrine creates an elegant yet demanding tactical package.

For players seeking a substantial two-player WWII board game, Desert Steel offers a focused command experience with scenario-specific terrain and a strong emphasis on battlefield coordination.