10 Strategy Games With The Best Stories, Ranked

Highlights

Strategy games can offer compelling narratives with universe-wide existential threats and intimate human relationships.
Unique titles like Homeworld and Valkyria Chronicles weave engaging tales within the strategy genre.
Stellaris stands out for its player-driven narrative design, offering galaxy-wide crises and real-time effects.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades under my belt, I must say that the strategic narratives woven into these games are nothing short of captivating. From the floating continents of Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings to the intergalactic power struggles of Starcraft, each title offers a unique perspective on military strategy and geopolitical intrigue.

Throughout video game’s history, there have been many genres that seem to have suited the role of storytelling more than others. While role-playing games and third-person action-adventure titles often hold some of the most intricate plots of the medium, the strategy genre seems to have missed out.

However, that is not to say that there aren’t some genuinely riveting narratives that can be found in the strategy genre – with even some of the best plots and characters video games have to offer being found in some of its titles. From universe-wide existential threats to intimate human relationships, the strategy genre is more than capable of weaving a heart-wrenching narrative.

10 Lock’s Quest

A Cult-Classic Clockwork Invasion Tower Defense

10 Strategy Games With The Best Stories, Ranked

Platform(s): Nintendo DS
Released: September 09, 2008
Developer(s): 5th Cell
Genre(s): Real-time Strategy, Tower Defense

Originally introduced on the portable Nintendo DS console and later moved to sixth-generation gaming systems and computers in 2017, “Lock’s Quest” was developed by the creators of “Scribblenauts”, specifically 5th Cell. In simpler terms, this game began its journey on the Nintendo DS, then made its way to more advanced consoles and personal computers in 2017, with 5th Cell being the developers behind it, who are also known for creating “Scribblenauts”.

Players assume command over an object called the Lock, which transforms into a government employee known as an Architech, responsible for constructing and safeguarding fortresses. The main adversary, Agonius (once the most formidable of all Architechs), was vanquished long ago, following his attempt to mimic life through a mechanized army.

Unfortunately, he has returned, destroying Lock’s seaside homestead, and capturing his sister.

9 Homeworld

A Space-Faring Tale of Refuge And Revenge

Back in 1999, Homeworld certainly made a splash and was widely praised by critics. But what’s truly remarkable is that its storytelling has managed to endure the passage of time just as impressively. As a fan, I can attest to this timeless appeal.

Players take control of a spaceship as they journey with the displaced Kushan people, fleeing their destroyed planet Kharak due to the hostile Taiidan Empire’s retaliation. The players must construct and manage their mothership while fending off attacks from the Taiidan Empire, who are seeking revenge for the Kushan’s advancement in hyperspace jump technology.

In the 3D cosmic strategy game, players are tasked with constructing spaceships and recapturing the long-lost Kushan homeland from its enemies.

8 World In Conflict

An Alternate History RTS Where The Cold War Heats Up

In this game called World in Conflict, we delve into a hypothetical Cold War scenario that unfolds in a different timeline. This exciting title introduces the real-time strategy genre on personal computers and modern seventh-generation gaming platforms.

Following the Western world’s refusal to provide financial assistance to the crumbling Soviet Union, the Red Army responds by deploying troops within mainland Europe. Subsequently, the U.S. dispatches its military to counteract the emerging European danger. However, this action leads to a retaliation from Soviet forces who attack the American mainland.

In this game, I find myself tasked with safeguarding crucial regions. As I engage in strategic battles against the Soviets, I must think on my feet and use every bit of cunning and courage at my disposal. With China joining the conflict, tensions escalate, making each move a test of wit and bravery.

7 Disgaea 5: Alliance of Vengeance

A Deeper, Darker Tale In The Disgaea Franchise

The Disgaea strategy role-playing game series doesn’t avoid intricate storylines laced with fantasy aspects. Given its Japanese RPG origins, the storyline is a rich tapestry of complex layers and distinctive character interactions.

In the realm of Disgaea 5, you lead a movement through the chaotic Netherworlds, governed by powerful Overlords, each with distinct talents. Your mission is to confront the malevolent Void Dark, this game’s formidable antagonist. By winning over these Overlords, you aim to overcome the Void Dark and his minions who have the power to steal abilities. The objective is to defeat them and restore peace in the Netherworld.

6 Valkyria Chronicles

A Pseudo-Second World War Turn Based Title

In a fictional setting reminiscent of World War II, the game “Valkyria Chronicles” skillfully employs this era’s aesthetics to craft a distinctive and believable third-person strategy experience.

In the impartial nation of Gallia, our main characters find themselves in a challenging predicament. Sandwiched between the authoritarian Eastern power known as the ‘Europan Imperial Alliance’ and the democratic coalition of the ‘Atlantic Federation’. A dispute arises over Ragnite, a valuable resource that both parties desperately seek to dominate.

In a narrative reminiscent of World War II, I find myself immersed in a tale that maintains a solid footing on reality, while gracefully weaving in elements of timeless magical forces and heartfelt romance as it unfolds.

5 Advance Wars

A Cutesy Nintendo Strategy Title With A Surprisingly Engaging Story

Regardless of Nintendo’s playful, miniature design and cute portrayal of contemporary warfare, the game titled “Advance Wars” offers a fun and engaging experience in the realm of turn-based strategy narratives.

In the role of a strategic guide for the Orange Star military, gamers will engage in battles against opposing troops, all while deciphering a vast military conspiracy spanning across several territories, involving various factions and cunning deceptions.

In this game, you can choose from factions like the Green Earth and Yellow Comet nations, making the gameplay varied and exciting. Yet, despite its playful approach to global conflicts, it successfully keeps players engaged.

4 Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings

A Plundering Sky Pirate Adventure In The World Of Final Fantasy XII

The portable tactical game, “Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings” from Square Enix, isn’t just strategically sound, but also boasts an immersive and captivating storyline that keeps players hooked.

In this game, a continuation of the magic and airship adventures players initially experienced in the original “Final Fantasy XII”, you find yourself a year after the events of the first game. Known as “Revenant Wings”, this title introduces the Lemures contingent that was previously unseen, now visible to you as you take on the role of Vaan, the protagonist from “Final Fantasy XII”.

3 Stellaris

A Player-Bound Masterclass In Narrative Design

In contrast to most story-driven strategy games, Stellaris doesn’t feature apocalyptic scenarios, underhanded political dealings, or sudden betrayals by allies. Instead, these elements are largely player-driven, not predetermined in the campaign.

In Stellaris, a variety of factors are in motion. These elements manifest not only through the direct involvement of human players but also through unexpected events that take place throughout the cosmos. As galaxy-swallowing crises unfold and political sanctions leave lasting impacts in real-time, the consequences of Stellaris’ narrative turning points reverberate across the universe.

2 Starcraft

The Benchmark RTS With An Intergalactic Threat

Hardly any introduction is needed for Starcraft. This game is a benchmark for the real-time strategy category, and Blizzard’s 1998 release has a storyline that many gamers believe to be the finest within the entire series.

Following numerous efforts to develop flawless artificial lifeforms in the Koprulu sector of the Milky Way, both the Protoss and Zerg are brought into existence. Tragically, the Zerg annihilate their creators shortly after, leaving a fragment of humanity unknowingly venturing into hostile territory – carrying along their own human conflicts. In this complex narrative involving multiple factions, players find themselves immersed in the intricate political and geographical landscape of this alien warfare.

1 Fire Emblem: Awakening

The Nintendo Strategy Franchise’s Most Revered Title

Prior to the launch of “Fire Emblem: Awakening” in 2013, the Fire Emblem franchise was on the verge of extinction. Yet, the extraordinary success of “Awakening” has contributed significantly to the series’ resurgence, with a large portion of its sales success attributed to the captivating storyline of “Awakening”.

In the eyes of numerous gamers, this series is renowned for its top-notch narrative. It places players in the role of a speechless character named Robin, who teams up with the sturdy prince of Ylisse, Chrom. Together, they protect local villages and vanquish hostile forces. A later time leap occurs where Chrom ascends to the throne, marking the beginning of the main storyline.

2024-08-06 02:24