The physics of gaseous metals in the vicinity of the critical point is analyzed. A theory is presented for mixed states of valence electrons in percolation clusters of overlapping atoms, and is used for the interpretation of experiments. It is shown that the condensation of gaseous metals near the critical point has a plasma-like nature. The electrical and electrodynamic properties, as well as plasma oscillations and optical properties are analyzed in the region of the broadened metal-nonmetal transition. The cases of partial ionization at lower densities and multiple ionization at very high temperatures are discussed.