10 Video Games That Require Master Strategy Skills

In the ever-evolving world of video games, players are not just passive participants; they are strategists, thinkers, and planners. While many games may seem like mere entertainment at first glance, some require acute tactical awareness, foresight, and decision-making skills that can match the rigors of traditional strategy games. Here, we explore ten video games that demand master strategy skills, encompassing diverse genres and styles.

1. StarCraft II

StarCraft II is the epitome of real-time strategy games, balancing resource management, unit production, and tactical battles against human opponents or AI. Players can choose between three distinct factions—Terran, Zerg, and Protoss—each requiring different strategies and skill sets. Mastering the complexities of build orders, unit composition, and map control while reacting in real-time is essential for achieving victory. The game fosters a community that values strategic depth and innovation, making it a benchmark for competitive strategy gaming.

2. XCOM 2

In XCOM 2, players assume the role of a commander defending Earth from an alien invasion. This turn-based strategy game requires careful positioning of soldiers, engaging in tactical combat, and making critical decisions that can affect the entire campaign. Players must manage resources, build their base, and upgrade their troops, all while planning complex maneuvers to outsmart alien forces. The permadeath feature adds an extra layer of strategy, as losing a soldier can have irreversible consequences.

Civilization VI

Civilization VI allows players to build and expand a civilization from the ancient era to the modern age. The game is a masterclass in strategic thinking, where each choice—be it technological advancement, diplomacy, or military conquest—can drastically alter the course of gameplay. Players must balance resource management, city planning, and diplomacy with other civilizations while achieving specific victory conditions. The depth of strategy required to adapt to changing circumstances makes this game a favorite among strategy enthusiasts.

Total War: Three Kingdoms

Combining real-time tactics and turn-based strategy, Total War: Three Kingdoms offers rich historical gameplay set during the tumultuous Three Kingdoms period in China. Players control armies in large-scale battles while managing an empire on the strategic map. Successful gameplay requires strong leadership, espionage, resource management, and an understanding of historical tactics. Players must make decisions that affect both battlefield outcomes and the prosperity of their kingdoms.

League of Legends

League of Legends is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game where two teams compete to destroy each other’s Nexus. Players select champions with unique abilities and must collaborate with teammates to formulate strategies that include map control, team fights, and objective takedowns. The depth of strategic thinking involved in champion selection, positioning during fights, and anticipating enemy movements is what makes League of Legends a game that rewards master strategists.

Company of Heroes 2

Company of Heroes 2 is a real-time strategy game set during World War II, where players must control troops, manage resources, and utilize cover in tactical engagements. Players need to adapt to dynamic battlefield conditions, manage squad abilities, and employ strategic territorial control to gain advantages. The game emphasizes cover mechanics and the use of the environment, highlighting a high level of strategic thinking and decision-making under pressure.

Crusader Kings III

Crusader Kings III is a grand strategy game that emphasizes role-playing elements within the context of medieval kingdoms. Players must strategize not only military conquests but also political maneuvers, marriage alliances, and succession planning. The depth of the game lies in managing a feudal dynasty, making alliances, and navigating relationships with other rulers. It requires keen strategic oversight, as players make decisions that can affect generations of rulers and their realms.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

This tactical RPG allows players to lead characters through warfare in a fantasy world, where strategic decision-making is paramount. Players choose a house to mentor, leading them through battles while managing relationships and making decisions that influence the game’s story. The mix of character development, tactical combat, and narrative choices brings forth a multi-layered strategy experience that deserves recognition among the finest tactical games.

Planetfall: Age of Wonders

In Age of Wonders: Planetfall, players explore a sci-fi world, building and managing empires, engaging in tactical combat, and developing technology. The blend of exploration and strategic warfare requires careful planning and foresight. Players must make happen decisions that affect political and military landscapes while ensuring their empire thrives. The game embodies aspects of a deeply strategic experience in both diplomatic and combat scenarios, appealing to those who enjoy strategic empire-building.

Conclusion

Each of these ten games provides a unique opportunity to hone your strategic skills and engage in complex decision-making scenarios. Whether you prefer real-time battles or turn-based tactics, the strategic depth in these games offers players a compelling blend of challenge and excitement. Dive into these titles, and discover the strategist within you as you navigate various challenges and master the art of strategy in gaming.