Matt Colville's MCDM Productions has put Draw Steel Codex on Steam Early Access, giving the tactical RPG a purpose-built virtual tabletop that handles rules, maps, and sound design out of the box.
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Start organising for freeDraw Steel launched as a tabletop RPG in 2024 after raising $4.6 million on Kickstarter, positioning itself as a faster, more combat-focused alternative to D&D. The Codex is the digital companion, built specifically for Draw Steel rather than adapted from a generic VTT. Early impressions praise its polished maps, responsive interface, and atmospheric sound effects that make the whole thing feel like a proper game rather than a rules calculator.
The Early Access version includes all Hero classes from levels 1-10 and the Delian Tomb starter adventure. MCDM plans to expand content throughout the Early Access period. Cross-platform support is on the roadmap, though the current release is PC-only via Steam.
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See how it worksFor those unfamiliar, Draw Steel is a fantasy RPG that prioritises tactical combat and cinematic action. Turns move quickly, abilities feel impactful from level one, and GMs spend less time on prep. Colville and MCDM have built a passionate following over five Kickstarter campaigns for D&D supplements and original RPG content, collectively raising over $12 million.
The Codex launch is part of a broader trend of RPG publishers building their own digital tools rather than relying on third-party platforms like Roll20 or Foundry. If you have been curious about Draw Steel but prefer playing online, this is a good entry point.
Sources: Wargamer | Steam | MCDM Productions
