Steam and Steel: Total War Mod is a free utility from the SS Team. This custom add-on puts you in the middle of the Victorian Era, starting with the year 1860, for the turn-based strategy game Medieval II: Total War: Kingdoms. You can play as one of the 30 nations reflecting the world of the time, with matching aesthetics to boot.

It goes global with the choice of playable countries, but Steam and Steel: Total War Mod still suffers from a couple of issues, particularly with gameplay balancing and minor bugs. Alternatively, you can check out Bulat Steel Total War.

Conquer a changing world

Considering the medieval timeline of the base game, Steam and Steel: Total War Mod can already be seen as a total conversion mod as it overhauls the game entirely. This is clearly seen in the overall visual design, departing from what the original looks like. Choose from European nations such as Spain, France, and Great Britain, or other era-specific nations such as the Khanate of Khiva and the Qing Dynasty.

The developers also took the time to create customized unit descriptions and information cards for each of the units, buildings, and technologies in the game. Also, the game mechanics such as trade and diplomacy, are also reworked to reflect certain realities of the time. It comes with its own pair of campaigns. However, although there are other “campaigns” listed on the mod menu, only two are playable.

It is massive in its coverage, but this mod still needs work. For example, the base game user interface feels thematically out of place. In terms of gameplay, there are elements in Total War that are not yet adapted to this mod. Mercenaries, for example, are generic instead of adopting accurate minor factions of the time, like Taipings for China or Upper Peru, which would later become Bolivia.

A massive Victorian mod

Overall, Steam and Steel: Total War Mod remains a fun must-try. It introduces an entirely new time period that can be seen in most of its custom content. Play as one of the nations of the time, exploit technologies and trade, and ultimately reign supreme. It has its shortcomings, but it’s largely playable and enjoyable for both new and experienced players. Recommended.