Zero-K
Zero-K is an open-source real-time strategy game featuring physical projectiles, smart units, and a powerful UI. It runs on the Spring Engine and offers deep tactical depth.
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Open-source RTS with physics-based projectiles and smart units.
Core Features
- Physics-based projectiles with mass, velocity and trajectory
- Smart unit AI: automatic cover seeking, retreat, and coordination
- Highly customizable UI with drag-and-drop and Lua scripting
- Fully open-source under GPL 2.0, community-driven development
- Cross-platform: Windows, Linux, macOS
What It Can't Do
- •This repo contains only game module files; you must use the official lobby client to play. Spring Engine may require a decent GPU for optimal performance.
Use Cases
- Competitive online play against friends or strangers
- Learning open-source RTS design and modding
- Enjoying unique tactical depth from physics simulation
Detailed Introduction
Zero-K is a free and open-source real-time strategy (RTS) game built on the Spring Engine. Unlike traditional RTS games, Zero-K emphasizes realistic physics: every projectile has mass, velocity, and trajectory, making battles feel dynamic and unpredictable. Units feature advanced AI that autonomously seeks cover, retreats, and coordinates attacks. The UI is highly customizable with drag-and-drop elements and Lua scripting, giving players unparalleled control. Zero-K is community-driven with regular balance updates and modding support. Compared to StarCraft or Age of Empires, Zero-K offers more realistic ballistics and smarter unit behavior, while being completely free under the GPL 2.0 license.
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Getting Started
Download installer
Click the button above to download the installer for your system
Install the software
Double-click the downloaded installer and follow the prompts
Step 1: Visit http://zero-k.info/Wiki/Download to get the lobby client.
Step 2: Install and run the client, register or log in.
Step 3: Click 'Start Game'; data downloads automatically and you’re ready to play.
- Step 1: Visit http://zero-k.info/Wiki/Download to get the lobby client.
- Step 2: Install and run the client, register or log in.
- Step 3: Click 'Start Game'; data downloads automatically and you’re ready to play.
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Open Source Transparency
View GitHub SourceUninstall Info
Uninstall using your OS’s standard removal tool. Manual cleanup of cache files in your user directory's 'Zero-K' folder is optional.
No Extra Dependencies
Ready to use after download. No additional runtime required.
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