The Best Strategy Games that Refuse to Age

Strategy games, often unjustly labelled as relics of the past, are here to prove their eternal glory! Sure, they may not receive the same flashy attention as those blockbuster AAA titles, but that doesn’t mean the best strategy games are sitting in a retirement home sipping prune juice. These games have stood the test of time, and the newcomers are bursting with fresh innovations.

Now, you won’t find these strategy games on the same pedestal as the “best games ever” list, but fear not, oh mighty tacticians! We’ve scoured every platform to present you with various mind-bending experiences. Whether you prefer the classic series’s comforting embrace or the console-friendly newcomers’ exciting allure, we’ve covered your back, front, and strategic angles!

So gather your troops, polish your grandmaster plans, and dive into a world where strategy reigns supreme. These strategy games may not spoil like that mysterious container at the back of your fridge, but they will keep you entertained for hours. Prepare for cunning moves, epic battles, and the occasional rage-induced keyboard pounding. It’s time to strategize like there’s no tomorrow!

Age of Empires II

Definitive Edition – Building Empires, Crushing Enemies, and Getting Villagers Stuck Behind Trees

Step into the epic realm of Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition, where history comes alive, kingdoms rise and fall, and villagers have an uncanny talent for getting themselves trapped behind trees. Enable your inner conqueror and lead your civilization to glory in this timeless strategy masterpiece.

With improved graphics, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a treasure trove of civilizations to choose from, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition brings a fresh coat of awesomeness to the battlefield. Wage war across vast landscapes, from medieval Europe to the Far East, and master the art of resource management, military tactics, and diplomacy.

But be warned! As you build mighty castles, command powerful armies, and outwit your foes, you’ll encounter treacherous opponents who won’t hesitate to pillage your villages and destroy your empire. So, hone your strategic prowess, forge alliances, and devise cunning strategies to secure victory in the face of formidable challenges.

Get ready to rewrite history, embark on epic campaigns, and relish in the joy of seeing your armies dominate the battlefield. Just be sure to keep an eye on those mischievous villagers and their never-ending quest for freedom from the clutches of those stubborn trees. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition awaits, where legends are forged, and empires are destined to rise!

StarCraft 2

Unleash the Mayhem in the Cosmos and Outwit Alien Creatures (and Players) Like a Pro

Welcome to the vast and unforgiving universe of StarCraft 2, where interstellar battles and mind-bending strategies collide in a frenzy of epic proportions. Prepare to embark on a journey that will test your strategic brilliance, quick reflexes, and cunning tactics against both extraterrestrial adversaries and cunning human opponents.

In StarCraft 2, you’ll command one of three unique factions: the advanced Protoss, the resilient Terrans, or the relentless Zerg. Each race has its own strengths, weaknesses, and playstyle, allowing you to customize your approach to domination. Build bases, gather resources, and amass powerful armies as you strive to conquer your enemies and establish your dominance across the galaxy.

Engage in intense multiplayer battles where the competition is fierce, and victory is hard-earned. Devise intricate strategies, outmanoeuvre opponents, and exploit their weaknesses to rise to the top of the intergalactic ladder. But be warned, the path to victory is paved with danger and unforeseen challenges. Brace yourself for unexpected twists, thrilling betrayals, and mind-boggling tactical encounters that will push your skills to the limit.

Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection

Relive the Epic Chaos and Nostalgia with a Fresh Coat of Tiberium

Prepare for a nostalgic journey with the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection! Experience the adrenaline-pumping chaos, tactical brilliance, and cheesy FMV cutscenes that made the original series a beloved classic. But this time, it’s all been remastered with a shiny new coat of Tiberium!

Command your forces, whether you choose the Brotherhood of Nod or the Global Defense Initiative, and prepare to wage war across various battlefields. Your strategic brilliance and resource management skills will be tested, from the scorching deserts to frozen tundras.

Relive the iconic campaigns, build your armies, and unleash devastating weaponry upon your enemies. Witness the triumphs and failures of Kane, the enigmatic leader of Nod, or fight alongside the heroic GDI forces as they strive for global domination.

Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault

Brave the Cold, Command Your Troops, and Conquer the Winter War

Prepare to face the chilling battlefields of World War II in Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault. As a commander in the heart of the Ardennes forest, you’ll lead your troops through the harsh winter conditions, strategizing your way to victory in one of the most brutal conflicts of the war.

Gather your forces and navigate the treacherous terrain as you engage in intense tactical warfare. Experience the thrill of commanding iconic armies, such as the American forces, German Panzer divisions, or the mighty British troops, each with unique strengths and strategies.

Immerse yourself in the immersive single-player campaign, where your decisions and resource management skills will directly impact the battle’s outcome. Face dynamic and non-linear missions that adapt to your choices, creating a truly immersive and unpredictable war experience.

Civilization 6

Unleash Your Inner Leader, Rewrite History, and Build the Ultimate Empire

Welcome to the world of Civilization 6, where you step into the shoes of a visionary leader and guide your civilization to greatness. From the dawn of time to the space age, embark on an epic journey as you shape the destiny of your people, forge alliances, wage wars, and leave an indelible mark on the annals of history.

As the leader of your chosen civilization, whether it’s the wise and diplomatic Gandhi or the fierce and expansionist Catherine de Medici, you’ll navigate the complexities of global politics, manage resources, research technologies, and cultivate a thriving society.

Found cities, constructed magnificent wonders, and explored the uncharted territories of a vast world filled with wonders, natural wonders, and rival civilizations. Develop your culture, economy, and military prowess, and witness your empire flourish under your wise rule.

Total War: Warhammer 3

Unleash Mythical Powers, Conquer the Realm, and Wage Epic Battles in a World of Fantasy

Prepare to be spellbound by the immersive fantasy realm of Total War: Warhammer 3. In this epic clash of titans, you’ll command legendary armies, harness mythical powers, and engage in breathtaking battles that will determine the fate of the Warhammer world.

Choose from a roster of iconic factions, including the brave Empire, the ferocious Chaos warriors, or the cunning Dark Elves. Each faction brings a unique playstyle, units, and heroes, allowing diverse and thrilling gameplay experiences.

Unleash magical spells and devastating abilities that can turn the tide of battle in your favour. Command colossal monsters, legendary heroes, and hordes of warriors as you wage war across sprawling landscapes, from dark, foreboding forests to desolate wastelands.

XCOM 2

Earth’s Last Stand, Tactical Brilliance, and Alien-Smashing Action

Gear up, Commander, for the fight of your life in XCOM 2! The sequel to the critically acclaimed XCOM series puts you at the helm of humanity’s last line of defence against an alien occupation. Prepare to lead an underground resistance movement, outsmart extraterrestrial foes, and restore hope to a world on the brink of extinction.

As the Commander of XCOM, a clandestine organization fighting for the survival of humanity, you’ll make crucial decisions, manage resources, and assemble a team of skilled soldiers. Customize your soldiers, equip them with high-tech gear, and unleash their unique abilities in turn-based tactical battles that will push your strategic thinking to the limit.

Navigate dynamic environments, engage in intense firefights, and unveil the sinister secrets behind the alien regime. From urban streets to alien-infested jungles, every mission will test your squad’s resilience, teamwork, and adaptability.

But remember, time is not on your side. The alien forces are relentless and won’t rest until humanity is eradicated. Stay one step ahead by researching advanced technologies, building new facilities, and developing a network of resistance cells to counter their insidious plans.

Crusader Kings 3

Royal Intrigues, Dynastic Legacy, and the Art of Medieval Machinations

Welcome to the tumultuous world of Crusader Kings 3, where you’ll don the crown, shape the destiny of your dynasty, and navigate the treacherous waters of medieval politics. As a ruler, you’ll experience the full spectrum of royal life, from forging alliances and waging wars to engaging in scandalous affairs and securing the legacy of your bloodline.

Play as a noble from any corner of the world, whether a cunning Viking raider, a wise Byzantine emperor, or a righteous Muslim sultan. Your decisions will have far-reaching consequences, shaping the course of history and determining the fate of your realm.

Delve into a deep, immersive gameplay experience where diplomacy, warfare, and intrigue intertwine. Forge strategic alliances through arranged marriages, strengthen your dynasty’s claims through skilful diplomacy, or resort to cunning schemes and assassinations to eliminate rivals in your path.

Supremacy 1914

A World at War, Diplomatic Maneuvers, and Global Domination in the Age of Conflict

Step into the tumultuous era of the First World War in Supremacy 1914, where nations clash, alliances are forged and broken, and the world’s fate hangs in the balance. As a military strategist, you’ll take command of a nation and lead it to supremacy through cunning diplomacy, strategic warfare, and economic prowess.

Choose your nation from a roster of world powers, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Whether you represent the mighty German Empire, the formidable British Empire, or any other nation caught in the vortex of war, the future lies in your hands.

Engage in intense battles across land, sea, and air, commanding armies, navies, and air forces. Deploy your forces strategically, research new technologies, and adapt your tactics to overcome your adversaries. From trench warfare to naval blockades, the full spectrum of World War I combat awaits.

Europa Universalis 4

Unleash Your Inner Statesman, Rewrite History, and Shape the Destiny of Nations

Embark on a grand journey through the annals of history in Europa Universalis 4. As a ruler of a nation during the pivotal era between 1444 and 1821, you’ll navigate the complex tapestry of geopolitics, lead your empire to prosperity, and leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

Choose from an extensive selection of nations, from the great European powers to up-and-coming nations across the globe. Will you guide the colonial ambitions of Portugal, forge a vast empire like the Ottomans, or spread your influence as a cunning diplomat leading a small nation?

Every aspect of statecraft is at your disposal, from diplomacy and trade to warfare and colonization. Forge strategic alliances, negotiate peace treaties, expand your territories through military conquest, or dominate the trade routes for economic supremacy.

Age of Wonders: Planetfall

Uncover the Mysteries, Build Empires, and Conquer a Post-Apocalyptic Universe

Prepare for an interstellar adventure like no other in Age of Wonders: Planetfall. Set in a distant future after the collapse of a galactic empire, you’ll embark on a quest to rebuild civilization, forge alliances, and claim your place among the stars.

As a faction leader, whether the noble Vanguard, the technologically advanced Assembly, or the enigmatic Kir’ko, you’ll explore a vast and alien planet, uncovering its secrets and engaging in strategic warfare to establish your dominance.

Navigate through diverse biomes, from lush jungles to arid deserts, encountering ancient ruins, hidden treasures, and mysterious beings. Expand your empire, colonize new territories, and exploit valuable resources to fuel your progress.

Rise of Nations

From the Dawn of Civilization to Global Domination, Rewrite History and Shape the Destiny of Nations

Embark on an epic journey through the annals of time in Rise of Nations. As a visionary leader, you’ll guide your civilization from humble origins to become a global superpower, mastering diplomacy, warfare, and technological advancement.

Begin your journey in ancient times, building the foundations of your empire as you explore, expand, and exploit the world’s resources. From the fertile lands of Mesopotamia to the mighty pyramids of Egypt, witness the rise and fall of civilizations as you shape the course of history.

Experience the thrill of leading your armies into battle, employing various military units from different eras. Adapt your strategies, conquer rival nations, and witness the clash of civilizations as you expand your territories and forge a mighty empire.

Homeworld Remastered Collection

Embark on an Epic Space Odyssey, Command a Fleet, and Unleash the Power of the Stars

Prepare to be captivated by the vastness of space and the allure of distant galaxies in the Homeworld Remastered Collection. This definitive edition of the acclaimed Homeworld series brings the epic space opera to new heights, offering a visually stunning and immersive experience that will leave you breathless.

Command your fleet of spaceships through a captivating storyline that spans multiple generations. Set out on a desperate mission to save your homeworld, discovering ancient artefacts, encountering enigmatic alien races, and engaging in intense space battles.

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the cosmos as you navigate through asteroid fields, nebulae, and distant star systems. Each mission presents new challenges and opportunities, testing your strategic thinking and commanding skills to the limit.

Ashes of the Singularity

Unleash the Power of AI, Wage Massive Battles, and Shape the Fate of a Post-Human World

Prepare to immerse yourself in a futuristic world where the boundaries of technology and artificial intelligence are pushed to the limits in Ashes of Singularity. As the Commander of an advanced faction, you’ll lead your forces into massive battles, harness the power of AI, and strive for dominance in a post-human landscape.

Set in a distant future, humanity has evolved into a new era where sentient machines and humans coexist. The struggle for control of a resource-rich planet becomes the backdrop for epic conflicts as factions vie for supremacy and shape the destiny of this new world.

Command vast armies of futuristic units, ranging from powerful war machines to swarms of drones. Unleash devastating firepower, utilize advanced tactics, and witness the spectacle of large-scale battles unfolding across sprawling landscapes.