Zero-K is a free and open-source real-time strategy (RTS) game built on the Spring engine. Originally forked from the Total Annihilation-inspired mod "Complete Annihilation," Zero-K features physics-based combat, programmable units, and a wide array of tactical options including gravity guns, cloaking fields, and orbital support.
Gameplay
Zero-K emphasises tactical combat over base-building. Units have realistic physics and momentum, weapons fire projectiles that can be dodged, and terrain can be used for cover. The game includes a single-player campaign, skirmish mode, and online multiplayer.
Key Features
- Free and open-source under the GPL license
- Over 100 unit types with unique abilities
- Physics-based projectiles and terrain interaction
- Programmable AI and unit behaviours via Lua scripting
- Cross-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)
- Active modding community and map editor
Maps
Zero-K includes hundreds of maps ranging from small 1v1 arenas to large 8-player battlefields. Maps are downloaded automatically when you join a multiplayer game, or you can browse and install them manually through the in-game map downloader. The Spring engine map format supports dynamic terrain, metal deposits, geovents, and custom skyboxes. Popular map categories include:
- Small maps (2–4 players) for fast-paced skirmishes
- Medium maps (4–6 players) for balanced team play
- Large maps (6–8 players) for extended tactical battles
- Cooperative maps designed for the single-player campaign and co-op scenarios
Mods
Zero-K has an active modding community that creates custom game modes, unit packs, and gameplay tweaks using Lua scripting. Mods can be installed through the in-game mod manager or manually placed in the game directory. Popular mod categories include:
- Game modes — alternative win conditions, zombie survival, capture the flag, and more
- Unit packs — new unit rosters that change the strategic balance
- AI improvements — enhanced computer opponents with specialised strategies
- Visual tweaks — custom interface skins, particle effects, and model replacements
The Spring engine modding wiki provides documentation for creating your own mods and widgets.
System Requirements
Zero-K is built on the Spring engine and runs on modest hardware. The minimum and recommended system requirements are as follows:
- OS: Windows 7 or later, Linux (any modern distribution), macOS 10.12 or later
- CPU: 2 GHz dual-core processor (Intel Core 2 Duo or equivalent)
- RAM: 2 GB minimum, 4 GB recommended
- GPU: DirectX 9.0c or OpenGL 3.0 compatible graphics card with 512 MB VRAM
- Storage: 1 GB available space
- Internet: Required for multiplayer and map downloads
Download and Install
Zero-K is free software and can be installed through two primary methods:
Direct Download
Visit the official Zero-K website and download the installer from the homepage. The direct download includes a standalone launcher that automatically updates the game to the latest version. Simply run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
Steam
Zero-K is also available on Steam as a free-to-play title. Search for "Zero-K" in the Steam store, click "Play Game," and Steam will download and manage the installation. The Steam version is identical to the direct download and supports all the same multiplayer and modding features.
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References
Wikipedia. (n.d.). Zero-K. In Wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zero-K
For more information, please visit the official Zero-K website and the archives at Steam; or run a search via Bing, DuckDuckGo or Google for “zero-k”.
📅 June 9, 2026
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