Strategy remains one of the most popular video game genres, and within such a niche, there are still plenty of different titles in a variety of settings and styles for fans to explore. There are traditional RTS games that allow players to control armies and ships across medieval lands, futuristic simulators that take strategy to the skies, and even completely different approaches to the genre's methodical gameplay.
From sequels to new IPs from indie developers, there are some interesting games just around the corner for strategy fans. what does he do the future of strategy what's so exciting is that with each new iteration comes improvements in both gameplay and visuals, allowing classic franchises and newcomers to look better than ever while maintaining the core DNA that strategy enthusiasts have enjoyed for decades.
Anno 117: Pax Romana
Formation of the Roman Empire
Anno 117: Pax Romana takes the legendary strategy franchise back to the early days of civilization during the height of the Roman Empire. Players have all the tools they need to build and design entire cities from the ground up, as well as optimize all aspects of governing said city, from balancing the needs of the people to defending against rival empires on land and sea.
What makes the game so exciting is the level of depth in every gameplay element. Anna has always been the pinnacle of gameplay and visual detail and this entry is no different, the individual elements always stand out and ensure that every moment is alive with movement. As they expand their empire, players will have to manage the consequences of their actions, decide which deities to follow, what policies to implement, and even whether to defy the Emperor himself, all leading to outcomes that will dictate success and failure in the future.
Europa Universalis 5
Dominion through the centuries
Europa Universalis 5 is the next entry in Paradox's grand strategy franchise, and the scope is bigger than ever. Players literally watch history unfold in front of them as half a millennium of stories are told across the globe. As always, we focus on the technical aspects of the genre, such as building city-states and deciding where to lead armies next, making it a deeply tactical experience that trades modern visuals for a more engaging gameplay loop.
Unlike many other strategy games, Europa Universalis 5 it really puts the emphasis on displays of player skill and knowledge, and there are plenty of opportunities for experienced players to demonstrate their skills with an even wider scope than before. Planning governance strategies, building long-term infrastructure, negotiating peace through diplomacy; the game really has it all and looks to be one of the most complete historical simulations ever created.
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 4
Back to strategic roots
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 4 brings players back to the explosive RTS roots that were created Warhammer so popular in the first place. Where other strategy games prioritize history, Dawn of War leans heavily on its bleak future, combining mech warfare with large-scale tactical battles to deliver gameplay that should impress newcomers to the franchise and satisfy returning players as well.
The main draw is the campaign, with over 70 missions for players to tackle across different factions, giving them more than enough content to explore before testing their skills against other players. But game modes don't end there. With modes like Last Stand and Skirmish returning, there are even more ways to play, allowing players to configure battles however they want, adding another layer of replayability to an already expansive game.
Mewgenics
Mixing The Binding Of Isaac With Tactical Cats
Mewgenics is a brand new RPG from Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel, best known for games like The Binding of Isaac and Super Meat Boy. It looks like a mixture of comedy and strategy in a world full of cats. Players are given several cats at the start of their adventure, each with specific roles and skills, and must fight their way through increasingly challenging webs full of grotesque enemies and other challenges to overcome.
Mewgenics combining everything from tactical placement to breeding, it satisfies players who enjoy strategic battles, but also provides something for life simulator lovers. Also, the roguelike formula lends it a huge amount of replay value, something it did The Binding of Isaac popular in the first place, so players will be able to enjoy a significant amount of gameplay in a game that is equal parts strategy and satire.
Whiskerwood
The age-old tale of cat versus mouse
Whiskerwood takes the concept of building a city and replaces humans with sentient mice, all trying to please the feline overlords who rule the land. The game is incredibly unique, with a lot of detail put into every aspect of the game, from production lines to navigating the seas, but all these elements are undercut with cuteness thanks to silly puns and adorable mice that perform everyday actions.
Complexity is everything here. Players must decide how to expand their settlements while working with limited space while managing the complex production lines necessary to meet the demands of the ruling cats. It's a game that takes the satisfaction of building very seriously, with every conveyor belt built and every road placed fitting together like a perfect jigsaw puzzle. Players will quickly discover that the only real limit to their creations is their own imagination, as they truly have all the tools needed to create the ideal island civilization.
