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Cold Waters official game artwork

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Cold Waters Wiki

Spiritual Successor to the Microprose Classic “Red Storm Rising”.

Steam ↗Windows · macOS
GameWiki EditorialReviewed 5 guide topics

GET YOUR BEARINGS

About Cold Waters

Cold Waters puts you in command of a nuclear submarine during a tense Cold War showdown. You must decide whether to stalk enemy convoys with torpedoes or strike from afar with missiles, all while avoiding counter‑attacks. The game blends real‑time naval combat with a dynamic campaign, where each success or failure influences the unfolding story. Over 40 meticulously researched ship and submarine classes, realistic sonar, and authentic Soviet tactics create a deep simulation of underwater warfare.

01 / THE GUIDE

Real‑time naval combat

All engagements occur in real time, requiring quick decisions as enemy vessels move and react. Torpedoes, missiles, and SEAL teams can be deployed during these moments. The combat flow mirrors the urgency of a live encounter, where positioning and timing directly affect outcomes.

  • Observe enemy movement patterns before committing to an attack.
  • Consider the range of your weapons relative to the target’s speed.

02 / THE GUIDE

Over 40 ship and submarine classes

The game features more than forty distinct classes of ships and submarines, each modeled after real‑world counterparts. Their designs influence speed, armor, and weapon load‑outs. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each class helps you plan effective engagements.

  • Identify the class of an approaching vessel to anticipate its capabilities.
  • Match your weapon choice to the target’s class for better results.
Cold Waters official gameplay screenshot
Publisher-provided gameplay image · Killerfish Games

03 / THE GUIDE

Dynamic campaign

Your performance in missions feeds back into a living campaign, altering future objectives and enemy behavior. Successes can shift the strategic balance, while failures may increase enemy pressure. The campaign does not follow a fixed script; it reacts to the player’s actions.

  • Aim for consistent mission success to keep the strategic advantage.
  • Review mission outcomes to see how your choices affect the campaign.

04 / THE GUIDE

Realistic sonar model

Cold Waters employs a sonar system that mimics real underwater detection, requiring you to interpret pings and noise levels. Accurate sonar use can reveal hidden threats. The model adds a layer of tactical depth, as you balance stealth with the need for information.

  • Listen for subtle changes in ping frequency to locate enemy subs.
  • Use quiet maneuvers to reduce your own sonar signature.

05 / THE GUIDE

Authentic Soviet combat tactics

Enemy forces employ tactics based on historical Soviet naval doctrine, influencing how they escort convoys and respond to attacks. Their behavior reflects realistic Cold War strategies. Recognizing these patterns can give you an edge in planning assaults or evasions.

  • Watch for typical Soviet escort formations when approaching convoys.
  • Exploit predictable Soviet reaction times after a missile strike.

WATCH THE GAME

Cold Waters videos

Official trailers & gameplay

INSIDE THE WORLD

Screenshots & game images

5 official screenshots

IN THIS WIKI

Your reading checklist

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COMMUNITY

Player discussion

    QUICK ANSWERS

    Cold Waters FAQ

    Is Cold Waters a single‑player experience?

    Yes, the game is listed as a single‑player title, meaning you play the campaign alone without multiplayer modes.

    Which operating systems does Cold Waters support?

    Cold Waters runs on Windows and macOS; Linux is not listed as a supported platform.

    Does the game include a level editor?

    A level editor is included, allowing players to create and edit missions within the game's tools.

    More Cold Waters guides

    SOURCES & CREDITS

    Official resources and further reading

    Original editorial guidance. Game imagery and trailers are provided by the publisher through Steam. Media and reference links checked 2026-10-23. Game versions, supported platforms, and balance can change; consult the linked release notes for current details.