Strategy games have always been a popular genre among gamers, but they require a certain level of skill and thinking to master. For some, they can be daunting and overwhelming, while for others, they are an exciting challenge that pushes their mental capacity to the limit.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best strategy games for the thinking gamer. These games are not only fun and engaging, but they also require careful planning, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making. Whether you are a seasoned strategy game enthusiast or a newbie looking to test your mental acumen, these games are sure to provide you with hours of entertainment and challenge.
1. “Civilization VI”
One of the most popular strategy games of all time, “Civilization VI” is a turn-based strategy game that challenges players to build and expand an empire from the Stone Age to the Information Age. Players must manage resources, research technologies, build armies, and engage in diplomatic relations with other civilizations to achieve victory. The game’s complex gameplay mechanics and intricate strategy make it a favorite among strategy game enthusiasts.
2. “XCOM 2”
“XCOM 2” is a tactical turn-based strategy game that puts players in command of a group of soldiers fighting against an alien invasion. Players must strategically position their soldiers, manage resources, research new technologies, and make tough decisions to resist the alien threat and save humanity. The game’s punishing difficulty and deep tactical gameplay make it a must-play for fans of strategy games.
3. “Total War: Three Kingdoms”
“Total War: Three Kingdoms” is a real-time strategy game set in ancient China during the Three Kingdoms period. Players must manage resources, build armies, forge alliances, and engage in epic battles to unite China under their rule. The game’s complex diplomacy system, deep strategic gameplay, and rich historical setting make it a standout among strategy games.
4. “Stellaris”
“Stellaris” is a grand strategy game set in space, where players must manage an empire, explore the galaxy, colonize planets, and engage in diplomacy and warfare with other alien races. The game’s deep customization options, complex strategic gameplay, and immersive storytelling make it a favorite among sci-fi strategy game fans.
5. “Crusader Kings III”
“Crusader Kings III” is a grand strategy game set in medieval Europe, where players must manage a dynasty, expand their territory, forge alliances, and navigate the treacherous world of medieval politics. The game’s deep role-playing elements, intricate family dynamics, and intricate political machinations make it a must-play for fans of historical strategy games.
6. “Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition”
“Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition” is a remastered version of the classic real-time strategy game, with improved graphics, new features, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. Players must build and manage an empire, gather resources, build armies, and engage in strategic battles to conquer their enemies. The game’s timeless gameplay and challenging AI make it a favorite among strategy game veterans.
7. “CivCity: Rome”
“CivCity: Rome” is a city-building strategy game that puts players in charge of building and managing a Roman city. Players must balance the needs of their citizens, manage resources, construct buildings, and expand their city to achieve greatness. The game’s immersive historical setting, challenging gameplay, and deep strategic elements make it a standout among city-building games.
8. “Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak”
“Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak” is a real-time strategy game set on a desert planet, where players must command a fleet of vehicles to explore the harsh terrain, gather resources, and engage in tactical battles with rival factions. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and immersive atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of sci-fi strategy games.
9. “Europa Universalis IV”
“Europa Universalis IV” is a grand strategy game set in the early modern period, where players must manage a nation, engage in diplomacy, wage wars, and colonize new territories to expand their empire. The game’s deep historical accuracy, complex gameplay mechanics, and challenging AI make it a favorite among fans of historical strategy games.
10. “Company of Heroes 2”
“Company of Heroes 2” is a real-time strategy game set during World War II, where players must command a squad of soldiers and vehicles to navigate the harsh Eastern Front, engage in tactical battles, and outmaneuver their enemies to achieve victory. The game’s intense atmosphere, realistic warfare mechanics, and deep strategic gameplay make it a standout among WWII strategy games.
In conclusion, strategy games offer a unique and rewarding gameplay experience for gamers who enjoy critical thinking, careful planning, and strategic decision-making. The games listed above are some of the best examples of the genre, offering players hours of entertainment and challenge as they navigate complex gameplay mechanics, immersive settings, and deep strategic elements. Whether you are a seasoned strategy game veteran or a newbie looking to test your mental acumen, these games are sure to provide you with hours of entertainment and challenge.
