Command & Conquer: Red Alert
November 9, 1996
Strategy, World War II, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy.
The continuation of the enthusiastically-received RTS title from the Westwood Studios company. In contrast to the purely fictional storyline of its predecessor, this time the developers have decided to provide the players with an alternative version of reality, in which Stalin decides to “liberate” the world from the hands of imperialists and subjugate it to Soviet authority. After we declare our allegiance we can either assault the West under the red banner or fight in the ranks of the Allies and try to withstand the Soviet onslaught. This decision will have huge impact on our gameplay experience, as both factions have completely unique types of units and armaments, which also results in slightly different playstyles and strategies. The arsenal of doomsday devices which we have at our disposal has also been made much more realistic in comparison to the production’s archetype; however, there is no shortage of various weapon prototypes, such as the Tesla coil which electrocutes nearby enemies. Each of the campaigns consists of fourteen diversified missions, while those looking for an even greater challenge can try their strength in the multiplayer mode.
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Company of Heroes 2
June 25, 2013
Strategy, World War II, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Tactics.
Second part of the highly successful military real-time strategy. Title was developed by Relic Entertainment and released by the SEGA company. Action of Company of Heroes 2 is once again set in the time of World War II. This time, however, players have the opportunity to take part in the events that took place on the Eastern Front. The main single player campaign focuses on commanding the Red Army, while in multiplayer, forces of the Third Reich are also available. Mechanics are based on solutions known from Company of Heroes, but the developers also decided to add new features, including a completely redesigned cover system and atmospheric conditions that affect units' mobility. Game was built on a new graphics engine Essence 3.0, which resulted in impressive visuals.
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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
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Norland
July 18, 2024, Early Access
Strategy, 2D, City Builder, Economic, Indie Games, RTS, Singleplayer, The Middle Ages.
City builder strategy game set in the Middle Ages, developed by Long Jaunt studio. In Norland, the player takes control over a noble family, facing different aspects of managing the kingdom, from economic to social, political or military.
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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.
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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.
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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
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Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Soulstorm
March 4, 2008
Strategy, Games Workshop, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Warhammer 40,000.
Another stand-alone expansion for the real-time strategy Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War that was released in 2004. The Soulstorm expansion adds one new story campaign for the game. It encompasses the the entire Kaurava system that consists of four planets and three moons. A conflict between nine factions starts in that area. They all intend to examine the eponymous anomaly. The expansion adds two previously unavailable factions. The first one are the Dark Eldar, corrupt pirates and slavers. The second are the Sisters of Battle who are absolutely loyal to the Emperor. In addition to that, each side of the conflict received new units (including, for the first time in the series, aerial vehicles). Multiplayer was improved as well. Now it has new maps and a reward system based on achievements.
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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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Among Us
June 15, 2018
Strategy, 2D, Humorous, Indie Games, Internet, Co-op, LAN, Multiplayer, PC Game Pass, Science Fiction, Online, Social Deduction Game, Space Ships, Xbox Game Pass Premium, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Free-to-play, Xbox Game Pass Essential.
Among Us is an unusual online game in which we try to prepare a spaceship for the journey together with other players. We are disturbed by saboteurs hidden in a group. The game was developed by Innersloth studio.
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Total War Saga: Troy
August 13, 2020
Strategy, Internet, Co-op, Greek Mythology, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, Ancient Greece, Ancient History, Turn-based.
The second spin-off of the Total War strategy cycle in which players can take part in a conflict known as the Trojan War. In Total War Saga: Troy we can lead the army of the title city or the Greek army attacking it. The game created by Creative Assembly studio features eight famous heroes, headed by Achilles and Ulysses.
OpenCritic
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Napoleon: Total War
February 23, 2010
Strategy, Napoleonic Era, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based.
Another installment in a renowned series of spectacular strategy games developed by Creative Assembly since 2000. The game focuses on the character of Napoleon Bonaparte and his military conquests at the turn of the 19th century. The player observes his ups and downs during the Italian, the Egyptian, and the European story campaigns. Completing them allows the player to witness both the rise and the fall of his empire. When it comes to the gameplay mechanics, the game introduces only slight modifications. The game combines all the successful mechanics employed in Empire: Total War with a set of new features, such as the system of army provisions, ship repairs, further extension of diplomacy and the increased role of spies. During the battles, the generals (including Bonaparte himself) are of high relevance, as they are capable of punishing the soldiers and bolstering their spirit. Both the visuals and AI of the units were improved.
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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
Age of Wonders III
March 31, 2014
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
The fourth installment of the fantasy strategy game series created and expanded by Dutch studio Triumph Software. Age of Wonders III takes place in a fantasy world in which various races and factions are fighting for power. The story campaign of the game focuses on rivalry between two of the factions – the Commonwealth Empire and the Elven Court. Gameplay of Age of Wonders III mixes strategy and cRPG features. Players are managing their kingdom, exploring the map, discovering new locations, encountering NPCs and participating in battles. The game offers a few single- and multiplayer modes. In contrast to the previous installments of the series, Age of Wonders III features three-dimensional graphics.
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Europa Universalis V
November 4, 2025
Strategy, Economic, Grand Strategy, Historical, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, War Strategy.
The fifth main installment of the best-selling grand strategy series from Paradox Interactive. Europa Universalis V brings a lot of improvements and new features compared to EU4, including expanded diplomacy, more advanced economy, as well as changes to military and logistics.
OpenCritic
Steam
Empire of Sin
December 1, 2020
Strategy, Interwar Period, Economic, Gangster, Historical, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, Singleplayer, Tactics, Turn-based.
Paradox Interactive's strategy to lead a mafia organization in Chicago in the age of Prohibition. In Empire of Sin, a player must both manage the economic side of criminal activity and command gangsters in turn-based tactical battles. The production is developed by the Romero Games studio, headed by the famous John Romero.
OpenCritic
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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
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Succession Wars
October 1, 1996
Strategy, RPG Elements, Fantasy, Internet, LAN, Might & Magic, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based, PC Game Pass, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
A continuation to a bestselling turn-based strategy game created by Jon Van Caneghem and his New World Computing studio. Heroes of Might and Magic II: The Succession Wars is set several years after the events depicted in the original game. When the ruler of Enroth, Lord Morglin Ironfist dies, a conflict over the throne breaks out between his sons. The player is given a choice, whether to fight for Roland's rebellion (he got banished from the kingdom) or stay loyal to Archibald, who considers himself the rightful heir to the throne. The gameplay formula has not changed significantly, but the creators introduced several novelties and improvements. The four hero classes from the original game were supplemented by a necromancer and a wizard, along with castles characteristic for these new classes and new creatures. Also, the second installment expands the list of skills available to heroes and introduces modifications to the system behind the use of spells. Additionally, the player is now capable of upgrading their units.
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Might & Magic: Heroes VI - Shades of Darkness
May 2, 2013
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Might & Magic, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
Might & Magic: Heroes VI - Shades of Darkness is a stand-alone expansion for the hit strategy game, Might & Magic: Heroes VI. It was developed by Virtuos, a studio known for their achievements in computer graphics (they co-created NBA 2K13, MLB 2K13, and Generator Rex: Agent of Providence, among others). Shades of Darkness introduces a new faction to the game, the Dungeon. The expansion also adds two new campaigns in which we control Raelag, a dark elf. The players get to know his demonic past, the time when he established the hidden city of dark elves somewhere in the far reaches of Ashan. The core rules of gameplay remain the same. However, Virtuos introduced new units, heroes, buildings, artifacts, and dynasty weapons.
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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.
OpenCritic
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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.
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Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne
July 1, 2003
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer.
An official expansion pack for the third installment in the series of classic RTS games set in a fantasy world and developed by Blizzard Entertainment since 1994. The story of the expansion is set in the world of Azeroth, several months after the battle for mount Hyjal. The plot here is centered around the trials to find Ner'zhul - the lord of the Undead, who has remained inside a frozen tomb in Northrend. The players receive four new campaigns for each of the four available races. However, the Orcs' campaign (separate from the main branch of the plot) deserves to be given special attention, because it lays the groundwork for the planned World of Warcraft MMORPG. It is worth noticing that all the parties involved in the conflict received new characters with their unique skills, as well as new types of units. The player is now capable of hiring neutral heroes and building stores selling magical equipment. Additionally, the expansion introduces new items, buildings and upgrades related to them.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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Stronghold: Crusader - Definitive Edition
July 15, 2025
Strategy, Economic, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, Remaster/remake, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, The Middle Ages.
A thoroughly refreshed version of the cult RTS from 2002, expanded with new content. Stronghold: Crusader - Definitive Edition offers greatly improved visuals, sounds and music. We can also play new campaigns and new skirmishes, as well as control new units and historical characters.
OpenCritic
Steam
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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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
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Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
November 14, 2019
Strategy, Historical, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, Remaster/remake, RTS, Singleplayer, Xbox Game Pass Premium, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass.
A remastered and improved edition of Age of Empires II – the second installment in the best-selling real time strategy series, originally released in the year 2000. The enhanced edition has been developed by Forgotten Empires. The improvements implemented herein regard mostly the visuals and the interface – the visuals have been significantly improved, and the game supports 4K resolution. The developers have also decided to implement the symphonic soundtrack to accompany the player’s efforts. Similarly to its original release, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition allows the players to lead one of over a dozen nations through the centuries of development. During the game, the player has to acquire resources, erect new structures, and invent new technologies. Apart from the economic aspect, combat is an important element of the game. In order to succeed, the player has to create a large and highly diversified army – including infantry, cavalry, and numerous war engines – and come up with effective strategies. Apart from the single player campaigns and skirmishes, the game offers an elaborate multiplayer experience.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
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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
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Punch Club 2: Fast Forward
July 20, 2023
Strategy, 2D, Boxing, Cyberpunk, Economic, Adventure Elements, RPG Elements, Indie Games, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Life Sim.
Punch Club 2: Fast Forward is a sports simulator with RPG and economic strategy elements. We play as a young martial artist living in a cyberpunk city. We must dutifully train, come up with strategies before each fight and organize other aspects of our life to reach the top.
Steam
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Halo Wars
February 26, 2009
Strategy, Internet, Co-op, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Xbox Exclusive.
A side-episode of the flagship shooter series, transferring the well-known universe of the Halo series into the realities of a typical real-time strategy. Unlike the previous instalments in the series, this spin-off was developed by Ensemble Studios, known for their cult classic Age of Empires. Halo Wars is set before the events shown in the first Halo and focuses on the first great battle which took place on the planet Harvest between human forces and aliens known as Covenants.
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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
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.
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Kingdoms and Castles
July 20, 2017
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, Fantasy, RTS, Singleplayer.
An economic strategy game developed by Lion Shield, a team set up by former members of Maxis – the studio behind the SimCity series. In contrast to the aforementioned franchise, Kingdom and Castles is set in a fantasy world. You take the role of the manager of a small village which you are to develop and transform into a thriving city with a castle able to withstand enemy attacks. During gameplay, you need to gather resources necessary for putting up buildings. Also, you need to skilfully manage farms so as to feed all your peasants. However, if you forget that seasons in this title change, you might face famine. You have to strike a balance between the satisfaction of the inhabitants and the tax rates you impose on them. The objective is to defend your city from Viking raids and dragons attacks. To survive, you need to build castles with defensive walls and watchtowers.
Steam
Prison Architect
October 6, 2015
Strategy, 2D, Crowdfunding, Economic, Indie Games, Internet, Multiplayer, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, RTS, Singleplayer, Top-down, Prison.
An economic real-time strategy game created by British indie developer Introversion Software. Prison Architect lets you play as a headmaster of a penal facility. Your duties include designing a high-security prison, managing its budged, and providing for the needs of inmates. The authors saw to it that each prisoner had his individual personality and corresponding criminal inclinations. A virtual prison manager has to face such issues as violent behavior among inmates, gang activities, smuggling and contraband, or even mutiny. Prison Architect features very simple top-down 2D graphics.
Gamepressure
Steam
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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.
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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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