8 Best Strategy Games That Are Not Part Of A Franchise

Key Takeaways

Strategy games offer diverse gameplay options and challenging decisions for players to enjoy.
Single-installment strategy games like Tharsis and Planetbase shine with unique experiences.
Titles like Bad North and They Are Billions pose challenging scenarios for players to overcome.

As a seasoned strategy game enthusiast with countless hours spent navigating treacherous terrains and outwitting my foes, I must say that these games are nothing short of extraordinary! If you ask me about the one that left the deepest impression on my gaming soul, I’d have to go with They Are Billions. The mere thought of battling hordes of relentless zombies is enough to make even the bravest hearts quiver. And let me tell you, the custom engine that can show up to 20,000 zombies on screen? That’s a sight to behold!

Strategy games offer an exciting experience by presenting players with numerous tactics needed for victory over opponents in their campaigns. The variety of choices available to players, whether it’s the games’ themes or the ways they customize their gameplay, ensures that every playthrough is unique and tailored to individual preferences.

Among numerous strategy games that come with prequels, sequels, and even spin-offs, there are also standalone titles that make a lasting impact. These games excel in their unique qualities and are frequently designed to leave a strong first impression on players, one they remember for years after finishing the game. Here are some notable strategy games not tied to any franchise.

8 Tharsis

An Interesting Space Adventure

Platform(s): Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, macOS, Wii U
Released: January 11, 2016
Developer(s): Choice Provisions
Genre(s): Strategy, RPG, Adventure
A signal from Mars is believed to be alien contact
Space-themed gameplay that feels fun

In a not-too-far future, Earth sends a group of daring space travelers to Mars following a strange signal detected from Mars’ Tharsis region. Assuming this could be evidence of intelligent life on Mars, these brave explorers embark on an expedition to solve the mysteries hidden within this Martian enigma.

As a space-faring gamer, let me tell you about the captivating experience that is Tharsis. This game, with its compelling space theme and engaging strategy gameplay, is a must-try for anyone who appreciates this genre. Regrettably, despite the longing of many gamers over the years, there’s been no other title set in this universe to date. But Tharsis is more than enough to fill that void!

7 Planetbase

A Space Colony’s Fate Rests In Players’ Hands

Platform(s): PlayStation 4, GeForce Now, Xbox One, PC, macOS
Released: October 15, 2015
Developer(s): Madruga Works
Genre(s): Strategy, Simulation Game
Deep-space thematic that works well with the game’s concept
Players must tell their settlers where to build and help them manage resources

It’s clear from the title and the last entry that space exploration is a favorite theme in strategy games, given its inherent challenges that demand resource management and strategic planning. While Planetbase may not boast an intricate narrative, it delivers on its premise effectively. Essentially, players find themselves leading colonists in their quest to survive and thrive on a distant planet. Despite the seemingly straightforward setup, the game excels in this simplicity.

In this game, players assume the job of a colony overseer, instructing the settlers on tasks and directing them where to construct buildings for survival and prosperity.

6 Rusted Warfare

A Great Strategic Approach To Armed Conflict

8 Best Strategy Games That Are Not Part Of A Franchise

The concept isn’t innovative, but works very well and offers a fun experience
Players must build bases, manage units, and plan out their strategies

In terms of originality, Rusted Warfare doesn’t appear to be breaking much new ground since it seems heavily influenced by other strategy games in the genre like Supreme Commander, Total Annihilation, Command & Conquer, among others.

In essence, it’s usually not essential to reinvent the wheel when the current setup is functioning smoothly. Gamers will find themselves constructing bases, leading troops, and adopting diverse tactics to conquer their foes and emerge victorious on the battlefield. Those who appreciate lengthy strategy games are likely to be captivated by this game’s approximately 40 hours of playtime, offering numerous chances for engaging gameplay experiences.

5 Bad North

A Game That Leaves Players Outnumbered And With Terrible Odds

Players must defend a small group of islands from invaders
Exciting real-time strategy mechanics

As a gamer, I’d say Bad North is like the ambassador for strategy games that put you against overwhelming odds, daring you to confront and conquer them. In this game, you’ll find yourself defending tiny territories from invading forces, as the chieftain of a small archipelago has met his end. Although there are other strategy games set in the Viking era, Bad North offers a distinct gaming experience that strategy enthusiasts will undoubtedly savor.

Featuring dynamic strategic gameplay, meticulously designed settings, and intense battles calling for tactical foresight, this game definitely deserves a spot on every gamer’s must-play list.

4 They Are Billions

A Peri-Apocalyptic World Demanding Tactical Approaches

Players must survive the zombie apocalypse and rebuild society
Up to 20,000 zombies can appear on-screen

Just like in many TV shows and horror movies, the game They Are Billions presents a world where mankind has been taken over by unyielding, bloodthirsty zombies. The objective is for players to reconstruct civilization and endure the ruthless zombie swarms as they strive to preserve what’s left of humanity.

This game stands out due to its unique custom engine, capable of displaying as many as 20,000 zombies simultaneously on the screen. This feature not only enhances the overall experience but also ramps up the difficulty level during gameplay. Teamwork, resource management, and strategic thinking are essential elements in this extraordinary title.

3 Offworld Trading Company

A Title With A Strong Focus On The Free Market And Ways To Exploit It

Players must focus on resource management
Implementing monopolies is possible, but requires more than luck

In essence, Offworld Trading Company centers around resource accumulation and management rather than combat strategies or devastation techniques. Players have the flexibility to grow their fortune and influence over the open market by employing diverse strategies, such as creating monopolies.

Establishing a profitable and essential monopoly in Offworld Trading Company isn’t as simple as it may seem. Players must not only build a strong foundation for their business but also ensure its worth and necessity to the market. To sum up, the game provides an excellent and enjoyable experience overall.

2 Northgard

An Exciting And Challenging Title Following Viking Clans

A Viking story about revenge and leading various clans
Players take on the role of Prince Rig

In the game titled Northgard, players assume the character of Prince Rig who is on a quest for vengeance following the brutal murder of his father by Hagen, the ruthless chief of the Raven Clan. Immersed in a captivating narrative from the Viking era, Northgard provides players with intense real-time strategic combat that demands thoughtful strategies and tactical maneuvers. The game boasts over ten distinct clans, each possessing unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses.

Despite there being other games based on this era, Northgard stands out as one of the finest strategy games, offering a challenging and engaging experience for players.

1 Into The Breach

The Vek Must Be Vanquished One Way Or Another

Humanity faces off against the Vek, an evil threat
Players must defend cities, improve their Mechs and survive

In the game titled “Into the Breach“, humans find themselves battling against a formidable enemy: the Vek, a malevolent horde of monsters. To aid in this fight, players are equipped with an arsenal of Mechs, towering robotic suits. These Mechs serve as powerful defense mechanisms against the Vek threat. Unlike other strategy games, “Into the Breach” employs a turn-based system rather than real-time gameplay. Despite this difference, the tension and excitement of combat remain palpable, making for an engaging experience.

In order to ensure human dominance, players must protect cities, enhance their mechanical units, and find methods to boost their chances of survival – whether directly or indirectly.

2024-11-06 08:34