Warcraft III: Reforged
January 29, 2020
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Multiplayer, Remaster/remake, RTS, Singleplayer, Isometric View, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
A remastered version of Warcraft III from 2002, which is one of the most popular RTS games in history. The game includes not only the basic version of the original title but also its legendary expansion: The Frozen Throne. The remaster offers refreshed graphics, re-recorded character dialogs and a number of game fixes.
OpenCritic
Stronghold: Crusader
September 24, 2002
Strategy, Economic, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages, Isometric View.
A sequel to Stronghold, an economic strategy game set in the Middle Ages and developed by FireFly Studios in 2001. This time we travel to the Middle East of the crusades period in the late 11th and the early 12th century. The game mechanics are not much different from what fans of the series know and love. The game's biggest innovation is the setting, albeit it features also some minor gameplay adjustment, such as dealing with limited water supplies. The developers offered four campaigns, in which you can lead the crusader army as Richard the Lionheart or command the Arabic soldiers as Saladin. The already wide spectrum of military units was expanded even further, featuring several units unique for each side of the conflict. In addition, the game offers a wider selection of clever siege weapons and defensive measures to be used in battle, a functional scenario editor, and a new Skirmish Mode.
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Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 - Yuri's Revenge
October 17, 2001
Strategy, Alternative History, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
The official expansion to Command & Conquer 2: Red Alert 2, the renowned RTS released in 2000 by the Westwood Studios company. The expansion pack, titled Yuri’s Revenge, expands the storyline of the vanilla version by adding an additional plot thread, in which Yuri – the advisor of the main antagonist of Red Alert 2 – is the lead character. Similarly to the previous installment of the production, the single player campaign has been divided into two separate parts (seven missions for each of the factions), allowing us to declare ourselves either for the Allied or the Soviet side of the conflict. The multiplayer mode has also been further developed with the addition of ten new scenarios and also an entirely new faction – the forces of Yuri. Furthermore, the title also features previously unavailable regions, such as Hollywood, London, Cairo or Transylvania; several unique buildings and units have also been added to the expansion, including the Virus sniper, the genetically modified Brute, the Boomer submarine, as well as the Slave Miner excavation vehicle. The developers have also prepared over an hour of HD cutscenes to further enhance our gameplay experience.
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Total War: Medieval II - Kingdoms
August 28, 2007
Strategy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, The Middle Ages, Turn-based.
An official expansion pack for Medieval II: Total War, another installment in a series of popular strategy games developed by Creative Assembly - the base game was released at the end of 2006. Kingdoms introduces mainly four new campaigns. The player is given an opportunity to take part in Hernan Cortez's conquests, Teutonic Order's fight against the pagan peoples of Northeastern Europe, crusades in the Holy Land and military conflicts during the rule of Henry III. Apart from twenty new missions, the expansion brings thirteen completely new factions with their own technology trees and having over a hundred different units and 50 buildings in total. Also, different new key figures appeared in the expansion, such as Saladin or Richard the Lionheart. All of this is complemented by fifteen new maps for the multiplayer mode, in which up to eight players can meet.
Steam
Northgard
March 7, 2018
Strategy, Economic, Indie Games, Internet, Co-op, Norse Mythology, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Vikings.
A real-time strategy taking place in a fantasy universe inspired by Nordic mythology and the Viking way of life. Northgard allows the players to lead a group of Vikings, who after years of tedious exploration have found a mysterious, resource-rich land. To attain their goal of fame and fortune, they will have to face numerous dangers scattered across the new land. Northgard’s gameplay is based on classic real-time strategy games such as Age of Empires, Age of Mythology, or The Settlers. Aside from resource gathering, building settlements, and battles with dozens of units, the game introduces survival elements - the player receives the duty of keeping his clan safe through long, frosty winters. The clan will be facing bloodthirsty wolves, undead warriors, and various mythical creatures, including giants, with whom we can create an alliance. Northgard employs 3D graphics with a light, cartoonish design, while the game itself is seen from an isometric perspective.
Steam
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Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars
March 28, 2007
Strategy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, EA Play.
The third full-fledged installment in a series of bestselling strategy games. The series was launched by Westwood and further developed by EA Los Angeles - a team employing the creators of the original game. This third installment reaches back to the roots of the franchise, both in terms of the mechanics and the plot. The game focuses on further developments in the conflict between the Global Defense Initiative and terrorists known as the Brotherhood of Nod. Their ruthless leader by the name of Kane tries to conquer the world using the titular Tiberium - a substance of space origin. The gameplay here is based on a well-proven formula and focuses on resource gathering, base expansion and commanding the player's forces through dynamic, real-time battles. The game offers units that appeared first in the previous installments, such as Mammoth tanks or Orca aircraft. Simultaneously, the visuals were significantly improved, using an upgraded version of the SaGE engine.
Steam
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Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2
October 24, 2000
Strategy, Alternative History, EA Play, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
The official sequel to Command & Conquer: Red Alert, a game originally released on PCs in 1996 by the Westwood Studios company. The storyline of Red Alert 2 is a continuation of that of its predecessor, however, due to the results of the secret Soviet experiments, this time we will witness the emergence of several alternative reality scenarios. The players can once again declare themselves either for the side of the Allies or the advancing red tide of the Soviets, and it is their task to try to decide the fate of the world with the numerous new tools at their disposal. Said novelties include unique, futuristic military technologies, as well as the ability to deploy spies, who can reach even the most carefully guarded secrets of any enemy base. In total, the production features forty new single-player missions and thirty previously unavailable units and buildings. The visuals of C&C: Red Alert 2 have also been significantly upgraded to harness the full potential of newest computers and modern graphics cards.
Steam
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Plants vs Zombies
May 5, 2009
Strategy, 2D, EA Play, Puzzle Elements, Humorous, Indie Games, Internet, Multiplayer, For 2 Players, Singleplayer, Tower Defense, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Zombie, PC Game Pass.
A game belonging to the popular tower defense genre. It's theme, however, is rather unusual, for the players' task is to protect their household against the attacking hordes of zombies. The game was developed by PopCap Games - a company popular for successful arcade-logic games, such as Peggle Deluxe or Bejeweled. In Plants vs Zombies, the levels are made of paths along which the zombies are coming. The player's task is to secure each of those paths. Interestingly, the player's fortification comprises of various plants and flowers growing outside of their house. Each kind of plant has a unique ability. These include things like production the in-game currency, attacking, slowing down the enemies, or exploding in front of them. Zombies are equally diversified - there are many types of attackers, differing in appearance, equipment, and armor. All the subtleties of gameplay are gradually revealed and explained to the players. The game stands out with its atmosphere of comedy, deprived of serious undertones and tension. This was achieved mainly by colorful visuals and a cheerful soundtrack.
Steam
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Cities: Skylines II
October 24, 2023
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, PC Game Pass, Sandbox, Singleplayer, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Cities: Skylines II is the second installment in a series of city builder economic strategies, developed by Colossal Order. Players must build and manage a city, creating districts, placing roads and setting taxes.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
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Ancestors Legacy
May 22, 2018
Strategy, Episodic, Historical, Internet, Multiplayer, Polish, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages, The Vikings.
Ancestors Legacy is a complex real-time strategy game developed by the Polish independent studio Destructive Creations. The game takes place in Medieval times and its single player campaign is based on the actual historical events. We can play as one of the four available factions: Slavs, Germanic peoples, Vikings, and Anglo-Saxons. In terms of gameplay, Ancestors Legacy focuses on large-scale battles. Figuring out good tactics that includes the layout of the land and skillfully flanking our enemy are the key elements that will lead us to victory. In addition to open-field battles, we can also besiege our enemies' cities and villages. We will also have to pay some attention to the economic side of our conquest (i.e. gathering materials and resources, upgrading and improving our headquarters). What makes Ancestors Legacy stand out among the similar games is the low entry threshold – both newcomers and experienced players will feel like home when playing the game.
OpenCritic
Steam
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Fallout Shelter
June 15, 2015
Strategy, 2D, Economic, Post-apocalypse, Singleplayer, Free-to-play.
A mobile spin-off to the post-apocalyptic Fallout franchise, accompanying the fourth major installment. In contrast to the main-stream Fallout games this one is a simulation strategy, in which you take on a role of a vault overseer and have to look after its inhabitants. The game has you expand the vault by new rooms, including living quarters, and public facilities, to provide for all needs of your dwellers. You also have to gather supplies, which requires you to send expeditions outside the vault, having previously equipped (or not) your men with weapons and protective gear. Each vault dweller has their own statistics and gains experience, thus unlocking new abilities and equipment.
OpenCritic
Steam
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Dune: Spice Wars
September 14, 2023
Strategy, 4X, Internet, Books, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
Dune: Spice Wars is an RTS with 4X elements, set in the universe created by Frank Herbert. It was developed by Shiro Games, the creators of the warmly welcomed Northgard.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Might & Magic: Heroes VI
October 13, 2011
Strategy, Fantasy, Hotseat, Internet, LAN, Might & Magic, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
The sixth main entry in one of the most popular turn-based strategy fantasy games, started by the legendary developer New World Computing in 1995. To refresh the series, the development has been entrusted to the team at Black Hole Games, known from highly-rated RTS games Armies of Exigo and Warhammer: Mark of Chaos. The game takes place 400 years before the events depicted in the previous entry and revolves around an intrigue of Angels trying to re-instill a long-forgotten war. The only ones able to stop its outbreak are the members of the House Griffin, who went separate ways a long time ago, all of them now leading their own factions. Gameplay is a classic combination of turn-based strategy with RPG features, supplemented with some new solutions, like the reputation system, lack of separate screens for each town or the option to convert enemy cities into our own type of stronghold. As per new trends, the game offers astounding, three-dimensional visuals and social options.
Steam
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Victoria 3
October 25, 2022
Strategy, Economic, Grand Strategy, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, 19th Century.
The third installment of the cult historical strategy series by Paradox Interactive studio. Victoria 3 takes the player to the 19th century during the colonial era. The player's task is to lead one of many available countries to greatness.
OpenCritic
Steam
Steel Division 2
June 20, 2019
Strategy, Historical, World War II, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based.
A continuation of Steel Division: Normandy 44 - war strategy published in 2017. As in the case of its predecessor, the game takes place during World War II, but this time the players are thrown on the infamous eastern front.
Users
Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia
May 3, 2018
Strategy, Historical, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages, Turn-based, The Vikings.
A spin-off to the Total War series, in which the developer studio Creative Assembly takes the players to the British Isles from the 9th century. Our task is to join a side in the war for domination over the Isles. When working on this game, the developers drew their inspirations from the previous Total War titles, thus, the game is a combination of a turn-based strategy and an RTS game.
Steam
Users
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III
April 27, 2017
Strategy, Games Workshop, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Warhammer 40,000.
Developed by Relic Entertainment, the third installment of the real-time strategy set in a dark science fiction world. The action of Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III once again takes us to the popular universe created by Games Workshop. During gameplay you can lead one of the three available races: Space Marines, Eldars, and Orks. Each of them has unique heroes, units, buildings, and abilities. Mechanically, the title combines the best solutions from the previous parts of the franchise and concentrates on spectacular battles waged on vast maps with hundreds of units. The game features RPG elements, such as customization of units and heroes that can be provided with special equipment and abilities obtained with the increase of experience. The title utilizes a modern graphics engine which offers attractive, 3D visuals and large-scale environment destruction.
OpenCritic
Steam
Black & White 2
October 7, 2005
Strategy, Fantasy, RTS, Singleplayer, God Game.
The sequel to the innovative strategy game by Peter Molyneux, once again offering the players an opportunity to play a god. The action of Black & White 2 takes place in the same world, and our task is to assume divine control over a chosen tribe of worshipers. The gameplay mechanics were not significantly changed, although the continuation is more combat-focused than its predecessor, and the constant choosing between good and evil remains the key issue. Depending on one's play style, the direction in which our tribe develops may, and will, change as well; we ourselves can influence it to focus more on the economy or the military. Furthermore, the so-called familiars still play an important role in the game. The creatures became more intelligent, though, and can be assigned more complex tasks than before.
Users
The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-Earth
December 6, 2004
Strategy, Fantasy, Movies, Internet, Books, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Lord of The Rings.
A real-time strategy game developed by EA Los Angeles. The title takes place in the fantasy universe of Middle-Earth created by J.R.R. Tolkien. The game allows the players to participate in two separate campaigns in which they can lead one of 4 nations: riders of Rohan, soldiers of Gondor, army of Isengard and legions of Mordor. Each nation has its advantages and weaknesses. The gameplay combines features of classic RTS games, based on resource gathering and base expansion paired with epic fights during which, similarly as in the Total War series, the player controls whole formations of troops and powerful war machines. Heroes with special powers, such as Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas or Gimli are an interesting addition to the formula. The developers recreated many battles known from the trilogy, including the Battle of Helm’s Deep during which as much as 500 units can appear on the screen simultaneously. Graphics of the title are generated by the engine that was previously used in Command & Conquer: Generals.
Project Hospital
October 30, 2018
Strategy, Economic, Indie Games, Medical, Singleplayer.
Project Hospital is a strategy game developed by independent studio Oxymoron Games. It enables the players to manage a virtual hospital. The title resembles Theme Hospital, a game released during the nineties by famous company Bullfrog.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Endless Space 2
May 19, 2017
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Internet, Space, Multiplayer, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
A continuation of a 2012's highly-rated, turn-based 4X space strategy game by Amplitude studio. The action of Endless Space 2 takes us once again into the distant future where we can take part in a galactic conflict between the great races fighting struggling for control over a fragment of the universe. Both our empire management and battles take place in a turn-based system, and the player's task is to explore the universe, take control of individual planets, create a functioning economy, develop new technologies, and establish trade and diplomatic relations. The military aspect plays a key role in the game, featuring an advanced ship construction module, allowing us to personally choose the individual components of our ship. The game's virtual universe is randomly generated, providing unique adventures and challenges with each new game.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm
March 12, 2013
Strategy, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Isometric View, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
The second episode of StarCraft II, a space real-time strategy trilogy by Blizzard Entertainment. The title was distributed as an expansion and requires StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty in order to work. The story campaign is focused on the race of Zerg led by Sara Kerrigan, a character from the original StarCraft, who seeks revenge on the Terran emperor, Arcturus Mengsk. In subsequent missions, we will also encounter other famous characters, such as Jim Raynor, the ghost of Nova, and Matt Horner. In the second episode of the trilogy, the developers concentrated primarily on enhancing the multiplayer mode, introducing new units for every race as well as a character progression system and clan support. Some changes were also introduced to the gameplay mechanics — the interface was improved and the RPG elements were emphasized. The enhancements of the graphics engine translate into better graphics, more realistic physics, and spectacular visual effects.
Users
Railway Empire
January 26, 2018
Strategy, Economic, Trains, Singleplayer, Transport.
An economic strategy game created by an experienced studio, Gaming Minds, in which the player becomes an owner of a railroad company. Their task is to take control of the entire market and turn their company into an empire. Since the game takes place in XIX and XX century, the technology of the entire society is constantly changing. The key to success is to not only build new railroads and invest in new trains and train stations but also to use innovative technologies (divided into five historical periods), build factories, buildings in which you can repair your vehicles and provide tourists with attractions. Our competition, controlled by AI, is always on our heels – the fight for keeping our position on the market requires us to hire spies and saboteurs. Railway Empire offers a campaign mode and single missions, in which players must complete very specific goals. In addition to the aforementioned modes the players can also select a free mode that allows them to develop their virtual business without any goals imposed on them.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Dyson Sphere Program
January 21, 2021, Early Access
Strategy, Economic, Indie Games, Space, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
Dyson Sphere Program is a space economic strategy in which we manage and expand the base, take care of the economy, other resources and process automation, and explore the universe to create a thriving empire.
Stronghold: Crusader HD
November 1, 2012
Strategy, Economic, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, Remaster/remake, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages.
An improved edition of a popular RTS game created by FireFly Studios and originally released back in 2002. The HD edition increases the maximum resolution supported and adds zooming in and out in the isometric view. The game offers the entire content of the original release, supplemented with additional units, scenarios and tactical options introduced in the Stronghold Warchest and Stronghold Crusader Extreme editions. The player assumes the role of a castle's administrator living during the first three crusades. Throughout several single player campaigns, the player completes a series of story missions, familiarizing themselves with subsequent game mechanics. Balancing between prosperous economy and powerful army is the core element of gameplay here. Apart from standard campaigns, the game offers a set of individual scenarios and multiplayer missions for up to 8 players. Beyond the aforementioned technical improvements, the audiovisuals as such were not changed.
Steam
Users
Men of War: Assault Squad 2
May 15, 2014
Strategy, World War II, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Tactics.
An official sequel to a standalone expansion to the popular Men of War series, launched in 2007 by Best Way studio – previously known for such titles as Faces of War or Soldiers: Heroes of World War II. The game lets you pick one of five available nations that were taking part in World War II and lead them to battle on the front lines of Europe, North Africa, and Far East. Players can take part in various scenarios that require employing different tactics, from covert sniping missions, to tank battles. Some of them are redesigned missions from the previous installment in the series. The game is powered by a modified version of the predecessor’s engine, achieving much better visual quality. The authors also improved AI of computer opponents and provided an extensive multiplayer that allows for competition of two teams of four players.
Steam
Users
StarCraft: Remastered
August 14, 2017
Strategy, Internet, Multiplayer, Remaster/remake, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Isometric View, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
An upgraded version of the bestselling 1998 RTS game. Both versions were developed by Blizzard Entertainment. Compared to the original release, the game (including the Brood War expansion) features mainly significantly improved audiovisuals. Although the visuals remain two-dimensional, all the graphic elements have become more detailed. Furthermore, the game supports high resolutions (up to 4K), as well as refreshed audio, which also applies to dialogues between characters. Changes were introduced to the game's online component as well - StarCraft: Remastered offers an advanced system of matchmaking, the option to store one's save files in the cloud, quick button re-mapping, and easy access to fan-made maps and replays. The mechanics remain unchanged - the game is a classic RTS, featuring three playable races (the Terrans, the Protoss, and the Zerg). The gameplay is based on gathering resources, building one's base, conducting research, producing units, and fighting enemies - in combat, taking advantage of both the enemy's weak spots and the strong spots of the player's forces, constitutes the key to success. Apart from six story campaigns (two for each of the races), the game offers an extensive multiplayer component with various game modes.
OpenCritic
Sid Meier's Civilization VII
February 11, 2025
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Internet, Multiplayer, Sandbox, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is the seventh installment in the iconic series of 4X turn-based strategies, focused on leading a civilization through years of development. One of the main features in Civ7 is the civilization collapse, forcing us to change to a new one during the campaign.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Cossacks 3
September 20, 2016
Strategy, Historical, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, 17th Century, 18th Century.
The third installment in a real-time strategy series, set in a historical setting of the 17th and 18th century. The game was created by the reactivated GSC Game World studio, known for such titles as S.T.A.L.K.E.R. or American Conquest. In terms of the plot, this game is a remake of the first installment, originally released in 2000. In the game you can select any of the 12 available historical nations, each having their own buildings, units, and technologies. Gameplay is based on the classic mechanics of RTS genre, so your responsibilities include expanding your base, gathering resources, and recruiting an army to fight your enemies. Although you command massive armies in battles (up to 10 thousand units at one time), it is possible to give orders to individual soldiers. Each one has his own statistics, such as health, morale, level of training, experience, and fatigue.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
Stronghold: Crusader II
September 23, 2014
Strategy, Economic, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages.
An RTS set in medieval and a sequel to the 2001 hit strategy game, Stronghold. In Stronghold: Crusader II, players once again take role of a leader of medieval armies fighting in the Middle East during the crusades. Similarly to is predecessor, the gameplay focuses on ruling one's fortress, including the management of resources and workforce, building fortifications, and building an army to defend your stronghold, but also laying siege to enemy castles. Developers from FireFly studio aimed to implement bigger maps and many new types of units. Another novelty is a multiplayer co-op mode, which effectively allows you to divide ruler's duties between a military commander and an administrator.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Surviving Mars
March 15, 2018
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, Colonization, Sandbox, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
A science fiction economic strategy game developed by Haemimont Games and published by Paradox Interactive. The title is a city builder in which the player must design the first human settlement on Mars. Being a manager of a space colony requires the player to take care of many matters - the survival and well being of the colony inhabitants depend on it. The colonists won’t survive for long without access to oxygen and water, and the advanced technology of the colony requires a steady supply of energy. What makes things even harder is the fact that the systems constructed by the player can be broken by environmental conditions: the water tanks can freeze and the solar panels can be deactivated by a sandstorm. Additionally, the agency that sponsored the whole mission has specific requirements – if the player had chosen a profit-driven corporation as a sponsor, then he must remember to create a mine for valuable resources and a system that will transport these resources to Earth. Each inhabitant of the colony is a unique character with specific traits and parameters impacted by his living conditions. A happy colonist can decide to have children while a constantly stressed worker will grow psychical traumas. The title is a sandbox which is partially unpredictable due to the mysteries – events and scenarios inspired by classic science fiction tropes.
Steam
Users
Battlefleet Gothic: Armada
April 21, 2016
Strategy, Space, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Warhammer 40,000.
A space real-time strategy game set in the popular science-fiction universe created by Games Workshop, initially for tabletop battle games. It was developed by Tindalos Interactive, an independent French studio known mostly for Stellar Impact. The action takes us to the war-torn world of Wahammer 40,000, where 4 powerful factions — Imperium, Chaos, Eldar and Orks — fight for dominance in the Gothic sector. The players assume control over a fleet of the chosen side. Available units include vessels of various size and purpose – from fast frigates to majestic warships. The gameplay focuses on fighting large-scale battles, during which our units and their personnel gain experience that can be then traded for new special abilities as well as enhancements for weapons, defensive systems, and the like. The game offers attractive graphics powered by Unreal Engine 4.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
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Warhammer: Mark of Chaos
November 14, 2006
Strategy, Fantasy, Games Workshop, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer.
A fantasy real-time tactics game by Black Hole Games, and a part of the Warhammer universe created by Games Workshop. Its main element is a complex story campaign centered on the war with the Hordes of Chaos, shown from four different points of view, those of the four sides of the conflict: the Empire, the High Elves, the Hordes themselves, and the rat-like Skaven. Warhammer: Mark of Chaos is focused exclusively on combat, leaving out the economical aspects (such as gathering resources or developing your base) typical for the genre. Instead of that, you are completely free to decide on the make-up of your army by choosing your soldiers of various races (e.g. orcs, goblins, vampires or dwarves) and customizing their appearance, equipment and behavior during battle. Apart from the singleplayer mode, the game also features four diverse multiplayer modes.
Users
Europa Universalis IV
August 13, 2013
Strategy, Economic, Grand Strategy, Historical, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy.
The fourth installment in a highly popular strategic game franchise - Europa Universalis. The title was developed by Paradox Development Studio. In accordance with the tradition of the series, Europa Universalis IV lets you command and develop a chosen nation over the course of several centuries. This time the historical framework spans from 11 November 1444 to 2 January 1821. The gameplay is based on classic solutions of the 4X genre (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate). The player has to manage his provinces, develop new technologies, command armies, and conduct diplomacy. Apart from AI enemies the game offers online multiplayer for up to 32 people.
Steam
Users
Age of Empires II: The Conquerors
August 25, 2000
Strategy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages.
An expansion for Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings, a real time strategy game developed by Ensemble Studios. The add-on introduces five new civilizations (Huns, The Maya, Aztecs, Koreans, and Spaniards), each having its own campaign based on historical events, starring numerous heroes known from history books, including Attila the Hun, El Cid, and Montezuma. The Conquerors adds a number of new battle units, including halberdiers, Korean turtle boats, or various Aztec and Mayan warriors. The new civilizations can research 26 new techs, such as caravans or herbalism, while some of the countries received unique upgrades, such as Chinese rocket artillery. Age of Empires II: The Conquerors also contains new maps for multiplayer mode, while skirmish mode received new types of games and the ability to issue orders to the AI-controlled allied countries.
Crusader Kings II
February 14, 2012
Strategy, Economic, Grand Strategy, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, The Middle Ages, Free-to-play.
A sequel to the expansive strategy game Crusader Kings, which came to existence in 2004 as a medieval-themed spin-off to the popular Europa Universalis franchise that has been developed for over a decade by Paradox Studios. The game is set in the 11th century, and you play as a prominent Christian noble, who aims to secure a successful future for his house. Throughout the gameplay you have to oversee a a number of areas essential to the development of your kingdom: social and feudal issues, military, diplomacy, and religion. The most noticeable modification, as compared with the previous game, is the developed psychological aspect, giving more weight to social relations and individual motivations of your subjects. Other changes include the introduction of barons who manage provinces, royal spies, increased importance of women, and far-reaching relations with the Church.
Steam
Stronghold: Crusader Extreme
May 28, 2008
Strategy, Economic, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages.
A refreshed version of Stronghold Crusader, a 2002 strategy game. The new edition was developed by the creators of the original game – Firefly Studios. The game starts when the story of the first Stronghold ended and player is once again moved to the times of the medieval crusades that were supposed to reclaim the holy city of Jerusalem from the hands of the infidels. The player is tasked with creating a powerful army of knights and leading it against the infidels from the East. Gameplay mechanics haven’t changed, only new tactical options were introduced, giving the player greater control over the battle. New maps and units that once were available only in special edition of the game were added as well. The new edition uses improved engine of the original title, allowing for up to ten thousand units to fight simultaneously. The game has improved compatibility with newer operating systems.
Stellaris
May 9, 2016
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Grand Strategy, Internet, Space, Multiplayer, PC Game Pass, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, RTS, Sandbox, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Xbox Game Pass Premium, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Essential.
A real-time space strategy with RPG elements developed by Paradox Interactive – the creators of such renowned series as Europa Universalis or Crusader Kings. The game is played in a procedurally generated interstellar space, where your job is to build a galactic empire. A the beginning of the game you choose one of the 7 playable races that differ in appearance, skills, and ethics. The game focuses on exploration and expansion, giving you the choice to subdue other species by force or ally with them, using an advanced diplomacy system. Either way, the nations unwilling to engage in peace talks will have to be persuaded on the battlefield, where battle-hardened fleets serve as your envoys. The title offers three independent technological trees, allowing you to focus on developing your civilization's society, engineering, or physics, depending on your preferences.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
Command & Conquer: Generals
February 11, 2003
Strategy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, EA Play.
Another installment in a series of popular RTS games, which was initiated by Westwood Studios in 1995. Once Electronic Arts took over, EA Pacific was entrusted with the task of creating the game; creators of the original Command & Conquer were included in the team as well. C&C: Generals is not connected to any of the franchise's previous iterations in terms of the story. The game is set in a close future, when in the face of a huge war, the combined forces of the US and China stood up to a terrorist organization known as Global Liberation Army. The creators included three campaigns, one for each of the powers involved. Each campaign consists of 10 missions linked together by a storyline. Commanding the forces of each of the superpowers requires a slightly different approach, because the player leads here both modern-day combat units (USA) and infantry with unique technical support (China), apart from a gathering of dangerous fanatics and mercenaries (GLA). Command & Conquer: Generals utilizes the 3D SaGe engine, which is at the source of the game's high-quality visuals.
Steam
Users
SpellForce 2: Shadow Wars
April 7, 2006
Strategy, RPG Elements, Fantasy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer.
The second major installment of the popular series that combines the features of real-time strategy game with the traits characteristic of cRPG titles. The story of Spellforce 2: Shadow Wars focuses on a new threat caused by the titular Shadows. The player is tasked with leading one of three factions that declared war on the forces of evil. Similarly as in case of the first installment in the series, the gameplay is based on two pillars. The first pillar is based on completing various main and side quests, developing the protagonist (among the available classes there is a mage and a rogue) and obtaining more and more powerful equipment. The strategic aspect of the game allows the player to control one of nine races and it focuses on expanding the settlements, providing them with technology and recruits. In addition to the regular infantry and cavalry, in the game there are also flying units and heroes with unique abilities. The story campaign for the single player is the main attraction of Spellforce 2: Shadow Wars, but the game contains a multiplayer mode as well.
Steam
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Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
December 6, 2016
Strategy, Historical, Ninja, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, RTS, Singleplayer, Stealth, Tactics, 17th Century.
A tactical real-time strategy game inspired by the Commandos series. Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is set in Japan in 1615. The new shogun decided to enforce peace in the entire country which requires him to silently eliminate all the opposition that may dream of rebelling against him. To achieve this, he asks a group of five specialists who deal in murder, sabotage, and espionage. It is the team that the player will lead in the course of the campaign that consists of over a dozen extensive missions. In Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun, the action is presented from a camera placed high above the characters’ heads which provides us with a good grasp of the environment and lets us efficiently issue orders to our agents. Since they perform risky tasks on enemy territory, it is necessary to stay out of guards’ sight and act stealthily. Maps were designed in a way that allows for any mission to be completed in various ways. To succeed, the player always has to cunningly use the unique skills of every character and devise plans that involve strict cooperation within the party.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
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Star Wars: Empire at War
February 16, 2006
Strategy, Movies, Internet, Space, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Star Wars.
A real-time strategy developed by Petroglyph. The action of Empire At War takes place two years before the events seen in the fourth film, with some parts of the plot invoking the story from Revenge of the Sith. The game itself enables us to control both Rebel Forces and Galactic Empire in a quest to control the whole galaxy. The campaign consists of two phases: turn-based planning and real-time battles in three-dimensional environment. The available locations include numerous planets such as Alderaan, Dantooine, Endor, or Hoth, as well as outer space areas that see the clashes of powerful fleets. Both faction sport trademark units, including Star Destroyers, AT-AT and AT-ST walkers, or agile snowspeeders. Aside from a single player campaign, the developers introduced a number of multiplayer modes.
Steam
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Command & Conquer 3: Kane's Wrath
March 26, 2008
Strategy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, EA Play.
Official Command & Conquer 3 expansion produced in 2007 by the heirs of the original creators of the series from EA Los Angeles studio. The plot of the expansion focuses entirely on the actions of the Brotherhood of Nod and its charismatic leader Kane. Single player campaign was divided into 3 independent chapters, which action takes place over 20 years. The first one fills the gap between the first and the second part of the series, the next two appropriately complement and extend the story of the basic game.
Steam
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XCOM: Enemy Unknown
October 9, 2012
Strategy, Internet, Multiplayer, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Tactics, Turn-based, Isometric View.
A science-fiction turn-based strategy game that came out as a reboot of the cult series, UFO: Enemy Unknown, launched back in 1994 by Microprose. This new title was created by Firaxis Games, a studio founded by Sid Meier. The story of XCOM: Enemy Unknown does not follow any of the plotlines started by its predecessors. Instead, it tells a new story of the war between humans and an aggressive alien race. In order to protect our planet from the invaders a special organization called X-COM was created, with you as its commander throughout the game. The gameplay features two main aspects. In the strategic mode you plan your next move, complete research and develop technology, as well as manufacture gear and weapons – all this in real time. When it comes to skirmishes with the aliens, combat is turn-based. Most missions are procedurally generated, which relates to greater replayability. Battles are presented in full 3D, and the game’s engine allows for full destruction of environment.
Steam
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Battle Realms
November 9, 2001
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer.
Play as a fearless warrior and heir to the throne of the Snake Empire. Lead your people towards an economic and military victory over the dangerous, rival clans.
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Company of Heroes 3
February 23, 2023
Strategy, World War II, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, Tactics.
Company of Heroes 3 is the third installment of the popular series of tactical real-time strategies set in the realities of World War II. This time the campaign focuses on Italy and North Africa.
OpenCritic
Steam
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Caesar III
May 24, 1999
Strategy, 2D, City Builder, Economic, Singleplayer, Ancient History, Ancient Rome, Isometric View.
Thanks to this game you can taste the taste of power felt by the emperor of the largest empire in human history, climb the ladder of Roman political career and build the most perfect city in the world.
Steam
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Timberborn
September 15, 2021, Early Access
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, Indie Games, Polish, Sandbox, Singleplayer, Survival, Animals.
Timberborn is a Polish economic strategy from the genre of city builders with survival elements, in which our goal is to create a thriving town inhabited by beavers. The game was developed by Mechanistry studio.
Steam
Stranded: Alien Dawn
April 25, 2023
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, Colonization, Sandbox, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Survival.
A strategy game with survival elements, tasking us with building a colony on an alien planet. Stranded: Alien Dawn was developed by Haemimont Games - the developers of Surviving Mars, a similarly themed game, and three installments in the Tropico series.
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Total War: Warhammer II
September 28, 2017
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based, Warhammer.
Another installment in a popular series of strategy games created by Creative Assembly. Unlike the first part of the subseries, which was set in the Old World, this time the players travel to the west, where they wage a war across four continents: Ulthuan, Naggaroth, Southern Realms, and Lustria. Four races take part in the conflict, i.e. the High Elves, the Dark Elves, the Lizardmen, and the Skaven. Each of these factions fights for control over the Great Vortex, which they can heal or disperse using various rituals. Once more, gameplay in Total War: Warhammer II is based on two pillars. In a strategy map view you move your armies, manage economy and expand cities (all this in turns), while battles are waged in real time on 3D battlefields. Each race has its unique mechanics, units and heroes. Besides, owners of the first and second game can download a huge map that combines both game worlds. This way you can play a campaign of truly epic scale while controlling any of the factions available in Total War: Warhammer and its sequel.
OpenCritic
Steam
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