Best Open-World Games Where You Command Armies

Best Open-World Games Where You Command Armies

Key Takeaways

  • Kenshi offers an immersive post-apocalyptic world where players can evolve from slaves to warlords.
  • Middle-Earth: Shadow of War lets players command an army against dark forces in epic conquest missions.
  • Conan Exiles immerses players in a survival experience with the ability to raise an army to dominate foes.

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for conquest and command, I must say these games have truly taken my gaming experience to new heights. From the post-apocalyptic wastelands of Conan Exiles to the medieval battles of Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord, each game offers a unique and immersive experience that satisfies my inner warlord.


For those yearning for fame and dominance, numerous open-world games present an engaging and realistic army command scenario. Ranging from solo RPGs boasting extensive character personalization to complete warlord simulation games, these titles empower players to tailor and manage their own military force, vanquishing adversaries in the process.

Regardless if players prefer games set in post-apocalyptic sci-fi landscapes or epic fantasy realms inspired by renowned sword and sorcery lore, these titles deliver intense action and demanding challenges, providing ideal environments for mastering and honing the skills of warfare.

1 Kenshi

Free Slaves, Raise An Army, Become A Warlord

For individuals yearning for a deeply engrossing exploration of a post-apocalyptic realm teeming with treacherous beasts, unforgiving environments, and ruthless rulers, the game you’re seeking is likely Kenshi. This title offers a rich and intricate gaming environment, empowering players to craft their characters according to their whims. From a lowly slave to a savior of the wasteland who commands an army of fighters to overthrow tyrannical regimes or forge their own, the possibilities are vast. Boasting a remarkably detailed RPG-like framework, each member of your army will possess unique stats and talents, which players can fine-tune through various pursuits such as looting, combat, and specialized training tailored to each follower.

A more effective means of creating an army might involve freeing enslaved people and transforming them into a highly skilled fighting force. There are various approaches to achieving this objective. One option is the conventional method of recruitment and mentoring, similar to that of a savior or leader. Another, harsher approach would be to cast slaves into the Mist, allowing only those who return stronger to serve in your army. This game is challenging, but its unique mechanics make it an enjoyable and worthwhile endeavor.

2 Middle-Earth: Shadow Of War

The Best Way To Combat Darkness Is With More Darkness

After the occurrences in “Shadow of Mordor”, the duo comprising Talion and Celebrimbor’s spirit, united in death, will make another attempt to confront Sauron and forge a new One Ring, with this one tied to their power and souls instead. Armed with this potent relic, Talion along with his spectral companion will rid the lands of Mordor by amassing an unyielding army consisting of orcs, trolls, and other sinister beings.

Remarkably enjoyable to experience, this game offers swift action, featuring intense and gruesome battles, along with exceptional and heroic conquest missions. Players take control of armies while riding a fire-spewing, winged creature (not dragons, but similar to the Nazgûl’s hell-hawks). The game Shadow Of War is enriched by its Nemesis system, which adds depth to the gameplay as enemies rise and fall as players fight against Sauron’s forces. Occasionally, these foes lay traps to catch players off guard as they explore the lands of the South.

3 Conan Exiles

Unleash Your Inner Barbarian And Conquer The Exiled Lands

The survival adventure offered by Conan Exiles allows players to create an army of slaves and command them for defense or offensive maneuvers against adversaries in epic clashes for dominance. After its Age Of War expansion, the game has consistently attracted active players, making joining official PvP servers or custom servers a rewarding experience.

Despite its nature as a multiplayer survival/construction game possibly proving challenging for newcomers due to its complexity, it boasts an engaging RPG aspect and a finely tuned combat system that, though difficult to grasp initially, becomes intuitive with practice. The Magic and Religion of the Hyborian Age significantly influence the gameplay dynamics, allowing players to accumulate favor from their chosen deities (sacrifices being one method) and summon potent Avatars to annihilate foes in gruesome fashion.

4 Bellwright

The Best Game To Play A Revolutionary In The Middle Age

Crafted by the same minds behind Last Oasis, this game delivers a medieval-themed survival and village-construction adventure. In it, players can forage, battle, hunt, and construct their dream hamlets. The game further allows you to recruit villagers to aid you in your mission to overthrow the ruling noble. This entails raising armies, training them, attacking Brigand fortresses, and freeing towns from the tyranny of the oppressive feudal lord.

The game you’re looking at is currently in its Early Access phase, which means it may have some glitches, but the developers are putting in a great deal of hard work to refine the combat and mechanics, a fact that deserves recognition. The AI has undergone numerous adjustments and is well-prepared for battle scenarios, allowing players to mobilize a large number of fighters and lead them into combat to capture the valley. One of this game’s standout features is the ability for players to manage and fine-tune their equipment, stats, and even engage in friendly spars with their followers to boost their fighting skills.

5 Mount & Blade 2: Bannerlord

Raise An Army, And Lead Them To Glory

Experience the peak of medieval warfare in this epic game! Build alliances, barter, and strategize with factions while leading your troops on conquest across a vast open-world landscape. Immerse yourself in countless hours of action and glory as you explore this sandbox environment. This outstanding game offers unparalleled army management, meticulously designed for the discerning player. Since its debut in 2020, it has been consistently updated with patches and improvements to ensure smooth performance.

In this game, the fight and advancement mechanisms are a thrilling blend of RPG and action elements, demanding players to strategize, maneuver, and most certainly: plenty of perseverance. The battles are extensive, gruesome, gory, and occasionally unjust, but what kind of warfare experience would it be if it was effortless? There’s an arsenal of weapons at your disposal, each with its unique strengths and weaknesses, which adds another layer of depth to the game – there’s a weapon suited for every type of gamer.

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2024-09-08 18:33