Cities: Skylines
March 10, 2015
Strategy, City Builder, Economic, PC Game Pass, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, Sandbox, Singleplayer, Xbox Game Pass Premium, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Xbox Game Pass Essential.
An economic strategy game belonging to the popular genre of city builders. This one was created by the Finnish studio Colossal Order, creators of the Cities In Motion series. The game is a response to the popular SimCity franchise from Maxis Studios. In contrast to the previous titles from the Finns, this one is not limited to public transportation, letting you build up a whole virtual metropolis from scratch. The game is set on maps providing 36 square kilometers of terrain each, where you can build your dream city and take care of its inhabitants by raising new buildings and creating transportation network. Economic aspect is the crucial element to the game – while playing, you have to keep an eye on the city budget, provided by your citizens' taxes, and establish trade contacts with neighboring cities. You also develop means of public transportation to help your citizens get around the city faster. The game features high quality 3D graphics and full mod support.
Gamepressure
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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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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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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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Total War: Warhammer
May 24, 2016
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based, Warhammer.
Next installment in the epic strategy game series, introduced by Creative Assembly in 2000. After a series of titles set in different historical periods, the developers decided to take players into one of the most famous fantasy universes, created by the Games Workshop company. In the dark universe of Warhammer, different races constantly fight for power and world domination, unaware of the fact that the real threat comes from a mighty force from the north. The game lets become the leader of one of several races, including humans, orcs, goblins, dwarves, vampires, and others. Disregarding the fantasy elements, the gameplay does not differ significantly from the previous games in the series, with epic real-time battles lying at its core. Between the battles the gameplay switches to a turn-based mode, where on a world map you develop your country, its economy, and establish diplomatic relations with other nations.
Gamepressure
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Total War: Three Kingdoms
May 23, 2019
Strategy, China, Economic, Internet, Multiplayer, Romance of The Three Kingdoms, RTS, Singleplayer, Ancient History, War Strategy, Turn-based.
The twelfth main entry in the Total War series of strategy games. For the first time in history, it takes the players to the ancient China, to the times when the country was split into three rival kingdoms. The title combines traits of classic RTS and turn-based strategy game.
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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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Songs of Conquest
May 20, 2024
Strategy, RPG Elements, Fantasy, Hotseat, Indie Games, Internet, Multiplayer, For 2 Players, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
Songs of Conquest is a fantasy strategy enriched with RPG elements. The player must both manage the kingdom and lead the team as they explore the game world and perform their tasks. In addition, there are tactical battles and the whole game takes place in the turn-based system.
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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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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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
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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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.
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Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes
December 1, 2009
Strategy, Fantasy, Hotseat, Internet, LAN, Might & Magic, Multiplayer, Splitscreen, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
A spin-off of the popular Might & Magic series by Capybara Games, originally released for Nintendo DS, and later also for PC and the eight generation consoles. It is a combination of logic puzzle games and turn-based strategies with significant plot, and visuals-wise it resembles a jRPG. The story was divided into 5 episodes, during which you have to complete quests, explore the world, talk to NPCs, and, of course, fight enemies. The game focuses strongly on creating and managing your team, consisting of e.g. knights, elves, wizards, necromancers, or tamed demons. It allows you to use various strategies and your troops' special abilities in battle. The single player mode is complemented by an online and a local multiplayer mode, in which your team competes against other players' teams.
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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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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.
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Sudden Strike 4
August 11, 2017
Strategy, World War II, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Singleplayer.
The fourth installment in the series of real-time war strategies started in 2000 by Fireglow studio. After the franchise was taken over by Kalypso Media, the task of creating a new installment was given to the young team from Kite Games. Similarly as previous installments of the saga, Sudden Strike 4 takes place during World War II. In the game the player controls the armed forces of Germany, USA, Great Britain and Soviet Union, participating in battles during three large story campaigns and multiplayer skirmishes. The players can choose from more than one hundred varied units and from large variety of tactical options such as ambushes, using buildings as strong points, calling for air support or taking advantage of tanks' weak points. The greatest novelty introduced in this installment are much larger maps and the addition of nine generals based on historical figures. Their unique abilities can turn the tide of battle.
OpenCritic
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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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Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II
February 19, 2009
Strategy, RPG Elements, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Tactics, Warhammer 40,000.
A sequel to the popular real-time strategy game by Relic Entertainment, set in the cult Warhammer 40,000 universe, where over a dozen feuding factions fight a bloody war. In the story campaign, we can assume control of the armies of four sides of the conflict: humans (Space Marines), Orks, the Eldar, and the Tyranids. Contrary to its predecessor, in Dawn of War II we have a much larger freedom in terms of playing and can determine the order of conquest. Moreover, every mission ends with a fight against a so-called boss who is more resistant to damage and has more powerful attacks at his disposal. In the title, we command units that usually consist of only several troops, which serves to strengthen the tactical side of the gameplay and the way players bond with their subordinates. As we progress, the experience level of our armies also rise, thanks to which they can perform increasingly better on the battlefield.
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Stellaris
May 9, 2016
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Grand Strategy, Internet, Space, Multiplayer, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, RTS, Sandbox, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
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
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Bounty Train
May 16, 2017
Strategy, Economic, Trains, Singleplayer, Western.
Bounty Train is an economic strategy developed by a small Canadian studio Corbie Games. The game takes place in USA during the second part of the 19th century. We play as a soon-to-be railroad magnate and our job is to accomplish the tasks we are given that focus on transporting cargo. We begin by piecing our train together and hiring employees: from train drivers controlling our engine to gunmen who will guard our precious cargo from robbers. Hiring the right people for the job is crucial because each and every one of them has different, more or less useful skills. As our business grows, we will invest the money we made in better train engines, more modern carriages, other equipment, and coal - our train's fuel. The game also features a nonlinear plot that focuses on finding the lost family and trying to save a group of native Americans from relocation.
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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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Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden
December 4, 2018
Strategy, Adventure Elements, RPG Elements, Post-apocalypse, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Stealth, Turn-based.
A 3D tactical adventure game with stealth elements and turn-based combat. During the game, we control a group of mutants searching for the mythical Eden in a post-apocalyptic world.
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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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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.
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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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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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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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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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This War of Mine
November 14, 2014
Strategy, 2.5D, Crafting, Games for Impact, Polish, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, Side-scroll, Singleplayer, Survival, Modern Conflicts.
An extraordinary war game with focus on survival. It was inspired by the real stories of people who at some point of their lives struggled to survive a war. The game was developed by Polish studio 11 bit, known for an original strategy game series Anomaly. The game gives you control over a group of civilians trying to survive in a ruined city, where the biggest enemies are such problems as starvation and shortage of medicines. Depending on the time of day you can improve your hideout, craft weapons, furniture, and tools, or explore city streets in search for food and useful items. Randomly generated missions provide players with varied challenges and dilemmas, which may require sacrificing one person for the good of the others. The gloomy atmosphere is emphasized by an original visual style based on light and shadow contrasts.
OpenCritic
Steam
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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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Eador. Masters of the Broken World
April 19, 2013
Strategy, Fantasy, Internet, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
A fantasy turn-based strategy game inspired by such series as Heroes of Might & Magic and Disciples. Eador: Masters of the Broken World takes place in the titular world which has fallen apart into numerous pieces scattered across the whole galaxy. Each piece is ruled by a different ruler. The player assumes the role of one of such rulers, embarking on a quest to defeat the rivals and unite all the lands. The action has several layers: in the global layer one decides about conquering new lands and researching technologies; on the strategy map one can manage cities, build armies and attack settlements. The battles take place on rather small tactical maps and the key to victory is to use the advantages of units, commanders’ abilities and the shape of the surface.
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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.
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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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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
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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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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.
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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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Tempest Rising
April 24, 2025
Strategy, Internet, Multiplayer, Post-apocalypse, RTS, Science Fiction, Singleplayer.
A science fiction RTS inspired by the Command & Conquer series. In Tempest Rising we find ourselves in the middle of a conflict between the Global Defense Force and Tempest Dynasty factions, fighting for control over Earth. The game offers two story campaigns and an extensive multiplayer mode.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
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
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
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
Heroes of Might and Magic V: Hammers of Fate
November 14, 2006
Strategy, RPG Elements, Fantasy, Hotseat, Internet, LAN, Might & Magic, Multiplayer, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
The first official expansion for Heroes of Might and Magic V. The add-on was developed by Russian studio Nival Interactive. The most important new addition in the Hammers of Fate expansion pack is a new race, the dwarves, who actively join the conflict in the world of Ashan. The new race not only adds their legendary combat skills to the gameplay, but a rich set of spells as well. A story campaign consisting of 15 large missions is related to the dwarves. The game also contains 5 single scenarios and 10 multiplayer maps. The list of new features added in Heroes of Might and Magic V: Hammers of Fate is supplemented by previously unavailable locations, buildings, units and artifacts. The game also contains many improvements added due to fan’s demands – for example caravans and random map generator.
Steam
Users
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.
Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth
October 24, 2014
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Hotseat, Internet, Colonization, Multiplayer, PBeM, Sandbox, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based.
Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth is a turn-based strategy game released as a spin-off to the Civilization series. The game was produced by Firaxis Games studio, led by Sid Meier. The game is set on the surface of a distant planet, where the player has to build a self-sufficient colony. Gameplay mechanics follows the standards set by Sid Meier's Civilization V. Therefore, the game has you manage resources, develop new technologies, and constantly expand your settlement. The job is made more difficult by the rivaling nations that have their own plans to take over the planet. Apart from competing against AI, Sid Meier's Civilization: Beyond Earth offers multiplayer mode for up to 8 players.
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
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
Xenonauts 2
April 2, 2026
Strategy, Crowdfunding, Indie Games, Science Fiction, Singleplayer, Tactics, Turn-based.
A sequel to the turn-based science-fiction strategy game from Goldhawk Interactive, developed as a spiritual successor to the classic tactical game, UFO: Enemy Unknown. The story of Xenonauts 2 is not a direct continuation but an alternative retelling of the events from the previous game, telling of an alien invasion on Earth during the Cold War period. In general, the gameplay remains largely the same and is divided into two parts, namely, base management and combat missions. While in the base, we supervise the budget, conduct scientific research, and recruit soldiers, among other things. During the missions, we assume control over a unit comprising of several troops and make use of a myriad of both already known and completely new tactical possibilities. Contrary to its predecessor, the game offers fully 3D graphics, an enhanced physics engine, and an advanced artificial intelligence.
OpenCritic
Steam
Humankind
August 17, 2021
Strategy, 4X, Historical, Internet, Multiplayer, PS Plus Extra, PS Plus Premium, Singleplayer, Turn-based.
A turn-based 4X strategy from the Amplitude studio, inspired by the Sid Meier's Civilization series. In Humankind, the player creates his own civilization, selecting elements from many historical cultures, and then must lead it through the centuries, from ancient times to modern times.
Gamepressure
OpenCritic
Steam
Users
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
Users
Sid Meier's Civilization IV
October 25, 2005
Strategy, 4X, Economic, Internet, LAN, Multiplayer, Sandbox, Singleplayer, War Strategy, Turn-based.
The fourth installment of the bestselling turn-based strategy games series launched back in 1991 by the gaming industry legend, Sid Meier. Civilization IV is another important step in the development of the franchise, combining the classical solutions of its predecessors with modern graphics and introducing a number of novelties and changes. Once again, the player assumes control over a nation of his choosing and leads it through subsequent millennia to total domination over a randomly generated world. Compared to the previous installments in the series, the fourth entry has a different system of state management and features expanded diplomatic options; furthermore, an emphasis was put on such factors as culture and religion. The game also offers new units, nations (18 in total), buildings, inventions, and resources to be traded. Thanks to the 3D graphics engine, the map is full of animated objects and can be freely zoomed and rotated.
Steam
Users