Real-Time Strategy Games That Don’t Require Speed

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Real-Time Strategy Games That Don't Require Speed

As a seasoned veteran of the gaming world, I’ve witnessed the rise and fall of many genres, but few have captivated me like real-time strategy (RTS) games did back in the 90s. The thrill of base-building, unit production, and resource management was unparalleled. However, as time passed, I found myself longing for a simpler, more accessible version of RTS games that focused on strategy over speed.

In the 90s and extending into the early 2000s, real-time strategy games reached their height of fame, with games like Warcraft, StarCraft, Homeworld, and Command & Conquer leading the charge. These games are known for featuring base construction, resource gathering, unit production, and military unit management.

In contrast to real-time strategy (RTS) games being ideal for competitive settings, such as the peak of StarCraft 2‘s fame, intense competition may deter casual players who lack swift playstyles. Consequently, many RTS games can come off as challenging or exclusive to the average player. However, these games prioritize strategic thinking over rapid gameplay, making them more approachable for a broader audience.

6 Cataclismo

A Gloomy, Wave-Based RTS With Modular Building Mechanics

In simpler terms, this real-time strategy game has a unique, understated art style using flat colors and creates a strong atmosphere. The eye-catching visual design might be impressive, but the aspect that truly sets it apart is its flexible base-construction system, which feels similar to playing with digital LEGO blocks.

Cataclismo revolves around constructing and safeguarding fortresses against waves of monsters, optimizing tactical placement for maximum efficiency from each unit. The feature to pause and the wave-based structure of the game provide ample time for players to devise their strategy, and it doesn’t demand fast-paced play from the player.

5 Kenshi

A Sandbox RPG With Squad-Based Strategy And A Tactical Pause

Instead of being primarily a real-time strategy (RTS) game, Kenshi is predominantly a sandbox-style role-playing game (RPG), emphasizing squad-based gameplay, open-world exploration, and player autonomy. In this game, players are not given specific objectives but have the freedom to traverse the world at their leisure, encountering various non-player characters (NPCs) and discovering peculiar locations throughout their journey.

In the realm of Kenshi, danger lurks around every corner, and players frequently engage in battles against diverse adversaries. Real-time combat is a key feature of Kenshi, making strategic thinking crucial, especially when managing multiple characters. Nevertheless, a tactical pause is incorporated to prevent speed as the sole determinant of success.

4 Tooth And Tail

Commanding Units From The Ground With A Unique Rally System

With its engaging accessibility and rugged animal-themed backdrop, Tooth And Tail stands out as an extraordinary real-time strategy game. In this captivating title, players lead their troops through strategic maneuvers rather than micro-managing individual units. Before engaging in combat, players select from a diverse roster of unique military units. During battle, they work on expanding their economy and strengthening their military power to outmatch their adversaries using conventional real-time strategy (RTS) tactics.

Instead of the usual way in real-time strategy games where players control multiple units directly, Tooth And Tail sets players as commanders who summon their troops by waving a flag. This simplifies the micro-management aspect, making it more approachable and less dependent on quick reflexes.

3 Northgard

A Norse-Themed RTS That Focuses On Survival

With its backdrop rooted in Norse mythology and offering leisurely-paced gameplay, Northgard stands out as a real-time strategy game that can feel serene at moments. Despite this calming atmosphere, the game isn’t devoid of challenges. Instead, players might find themselves stumped by strategic missteps rather than being overrun due to slowness.

The core gameplay in Northgard revolves around assigning workers to various duties and optimizing resource usage effectively, while combat requires minimal micromanagement. Although there is some level of intricacy in battles, the game doesn’t heavily depend on speed. Additionally, the game boasts an attractive visual aesthetic that resembles Warcraft 3, but with rounded corners and a welcoming ambiance in its settings.

2 Thronefall

A Minimalist Combination Of Tower Defense And RTS

Under development by a compact team and now available in Early Access on Steam, the game titled “Thronefall” is an innovative blend of tower-defense and real-time strategy genres. In this title, players construct their kingdom and safeguard it against hordes of attackers, issuing orders to their troops while riding horses, and occasionally engaging in hand-to-hand combat with some enemies directly.

As a gamer, I find myself diving deep into the world of Thronefall, where managing my economy is just as important as wielding powerful weapons. By strategically placing economic buildings, I can accumulate wealth and fortify my defenses with strength like never before. This game offers an array of engaging levels that test both my skills and patience.

1 Dune: Spice Wars

An Ambitious RTS That Tackles Iconic Source Material

On the barren and treacherous desert world of Arrakis (commonly known as Dune), the game “Dune: Spice Wars” unfolds. This real-time strategy title, infused with 4X elements, nudges players towards calculated strategies rather than breakneck speed. In “Dune: Spice Wars,” the primary focus is on gaining control of territories by capturing neutral and enemy settlements, and then building structures to bolster your economy and military might. The game’s emphasis on precise timing, strategic placement, political machinations, and power plays ensures a deliberate pace.

In the strategy game known as Dune: Spice Wars, there are several methods to emerge victorious, and each faction excels at specific types of victory conditions. What sets these factions apart is their unique characteristics, where each boasts individual strengths and weaknesses that contribute to an enjoyable gaming experience and foster diverse strategies. Additionally, Dune: Spice Wars stands out for its strong adherence to the original storyline, as it incorporates a range of immersive gameplay mechanics that align seamlessly with the source material’s fictional elements.

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2024-09-22 14:34