Hello and welcome to our comprehensive guide on strategy games! Are you a fan of strategy games but find yourself struggling to excel at them? Or are you simply looking for a new game to try out? Either way, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about strategy games, from their history to tips and tricks to help you dominate the competition. So, let’s get started!
What is a Strategy Game?
Before we dive into the details of strategy games, let’s first define what a strategy game actually is. A strategy game is a type of video game that requires players to use their tactical and strategic skills to overcome challenges and achieve goals. These games typically involve managing resources, building structures, and commanding units or armies to defeat opponents.
Strategy games can vary greatly in terms of setting, gameplay mechanics, and complexity. Some of the most popular types of strategy games include real-time strategy (RTS), turn-based strategy (TBS), and 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) games.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games
Real-time strategy games are played in real-time, meaning that the game world continues to progress regardless of the player’s actions. Players must make quick decisions and react to changing circumstances in order to succeed. Some popular examples of RTS games include Starcraft, Age of Empires, and Warcraft.
Turn-Based Strategy (TBS) Games
Turn-based strategy games, on the other hand, are played in turns. Players take turns making decisions and executing actions, and the game world only progresses when both players have made their moves. This type of game allows for more thoughtful and strategic decision-making. Popular examples of TBS games include Civilization, XCOM, and Fire Emblem.
4X Games
4X games are a subgenre of strategy games that involve exploring new territories, expanding one’s empire, exploiting resources, and exterminating opponents. These games often take place in a sci-fi or fantasy setting and can be either turn-based or real-time. Popular 4X games include Stellaris, Endless Legend, and Master of Orion.
The History of Strategy Games
The history of strategy games can be traced back to board games like Chess and Go, which have been played for centuries. However, the first strategy video game is often considered to be 1972’s Invasion of the Body Snatchers, which was created by Tom Dowd for the PLATO computer system.
Strategy games really took off in the 1990s with the release of games like Dune II and Warcraft: Orcs & Humans. These games helped popularize the RTS genre and paved the way for future classics like Starcraft and Age of Empires.
Since then, strategy games have continued to evolve and innovate, with new subgenres like tower defense and MOBAs (multiplayer online battle arenas) emerging. Today, strategy games remain a popular and thriving genre in the world of video games.
Why Play Strategy Games?
So, why should you play strategy games? There are many reasons why strategy games can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience:
| Reasons to Play Strategy Games | Examples of Games |
|---|---|
| To exercise your brain and improve cognitive skills | Chess, XCOM |
| To challenge yourself and test your strategic thinking | Civilization, Starcraft |
| To immerse yourself in a new world or story | Warcraft, Fire Emblem |
| To compete against other players and demonstrate your skills | League of Legends, Dota 2 |
Of course, these are just a few examples of why you might want to play strategy games. Ultimately, the enjoyment you get from playing a strategy game will depend on your personal preferences and interests.
How to Excel at Strategy Games
Now that we’ve covered the basics of strategy games, let’s talk about how to become a master strategist. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you excel at strategy games:
1. Understand the game mechanics
Before you start playing a strategy game, take some time to read the instructions and understand the basic mechanics of the game. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
2. Plan ahead
In strategy games, planning ahead is key. Think about your long-term goals and how you can achieve them. This will help you make better decisions in the short-term and avoid wasting resources.
3. Manage your resources wisely
Resources are often limited in strategy games, so it’s important to manage them wisely. Keep an eye on your resource levels and prioritize your spending based on your goals and needs.
4. Adapt to changing circumstances
In strategy games, things can change quickly. Be prepared to adapt to new circumstances and adjust your strategy as needed. Don’t be afraid to change course if your current strategy isn’t working.
5. Practice, practice, practice
Like any skill, becoming a great strategist takes practice. Play the game regularly and try out different strategies to see what works best for you.
FAQs
What are some popular strategy games?
Some popular strategy games include Starcraft, Age of Empires, Civilization, XCOM, and Warcraft.
Are strategy games only for hardcore gamers?
No, strategy games can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. Many strategy games have different difficulty levels and options to make the game more accessible for beginners.
Can strategy games be played competitively?
Yes, many strategy games have competitive multiplayer modes where players can compete against each other online.
What are some essential skills for playing strategy games?
Some essential skills for playing strategy games include critical thinking, decision-making, resource management, and adaptability.
Are strategy games only available on PC?
No, strategy games are available on a variety of platforms, including consoles, mobile devices, and PC.
Conclusion
And that’s our guide to strategy games! We hope you found this article informative and helpful. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, we believe that there’s a strategy game out there for everyone. So, pick a game, start playing, and don’t forget to use the tips and tricks we’ve provided to dominate your opponents!