Best Turn-Based Strategy Games From The 1990s

Key Takeaways

1990s gaming saw improved hardware, enhancing the graphics and complexity of turn-based strategy games.
Jagged Alliance 2 offers tactical combat, RPG elements, and player freedom in mission approach.
Master Of Orion 2 is a classic 4X game true to the genre’s roots with extermination, exploitation, expansion, and exploration.

As someone who’s spent countless hours immersed in the world of turn-based strategy games, I can confidently say that these gems have left an indelible mark on my gaming journey. Each one brings a unique flavor to the table, yet they all share a common thread – strategic depth that keeps me coming back for more.

Strategy games offered in various forms, ranging from complex 4X or strategic ones, to more simplistic city-building types. Some include a narrative for players to engage with during the main campaign, whereas others merely establish objectives for the player to accomplish independently.

1990s stood out as an intriguing era for video game enthusiasts. During this time, gaming hardware was gradually gaining popularity, with companies like Nvidia introducing specialized graphics processing units (GPUs) designed specifically for gaming. This enhanced graphical capability opened up new creative possibilities for developers, enabling them to develop games featuring more detailed and visually impressive environments than ever before. Strategy games of the 1990s boasted stunning game worlds and an unprecedented level of complexity in their turn-based mechanics.

7 Jagged Alliance 2

Part RPG Part Tactical Combat

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS, Mac operating systems, AmigaOS
Released: 1999
Developer: Sir-Tech
Genre: Tactical role-playing game, Turn-based tactics

In “Jagged Alliance 2”, you’ll experience a blend of strategic turn-based combat and role-playing elements, including character progression and an engaging narrative. Essentially, the game puts you in the shoes of someone leading a revolution against a ruthless dictator.

In Jagged Alliance 2, the player can employ groups of mercenaries to boost their troops, allowing for flexible approaches when tackling missions from various perspectives. This versatility in strategic decisions, intricate gameplay mechanics, and role-playing game aspects make Jagged Alliance 2 a standout choice on this list.

6 Master Of Magic

Fantasy Strategy Game

Platforms: MS-DOS, PC-98, PlayStation, Windows
Released: September 1994
Developer: Simtex
Genre: Turn-based strategy

The game titled “Master of Magic” blends multiple gaming categories. It’s essentially a mix of a fantasy strategy game and a city development game. The game environment is randomly created, allowing players to discover its mysteries once they select their preferred race for gameplay.

The game titled “Master Of Magic” earns its spot on this list due to its ingenious blend of multiple genres, resulting in a cohesive experience that was impressive. Being an older title, it remains worth playing, as it stood out significantly when it initially hit the market for its unique approach.

5 Civilization 2

2nd Installment Of The Civilization Franchise

Many fans believe that “Civilization 2” was the defining game in the series, significantly enhancing and refining the gameplay from its predecessor. Notably, it introduced features like sophisticated diplomacy and expanded possibilities for cultural growth.

Originating over two decades past, “Civilization 2” continues to maintain a substantial player base and an energetic modding community even today. For those seeking a game that set the standard for its genre, I’d strongly recommend giving “Civ 2” a try, as it truly was a trailblazing title in its time.

4 Age Of Wonders

Tactical Combat And Exploration

Platforms: Microsoft Windows
Released: November 11, 1999
Developer: Triumph Studios, Epic MegaGames
Genre: Turn-based strategy

In another instance, Age Of Wonders stands out as a game that skillfully combines elements from various gaming categories. At its core, it offers strategic combat, but it also boasts intelligent city-building mechanics and an assorted array of distinctive races to explore. Each race presents a unique playstyle, setting Age Of Wonders apart at the time.

The game earns a place on this list for its well-shaped fantasy setting, which manages to pull in role-playing aspects alongside an already well-fleshed-out set of gameplay features.

3 Master Of Orion 2: Battle at Antares

Classic 4X Gameplay

Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, Macintosh, macOS, DOS, MS-DOS, Classic Mac OS
Released: 1996
Developer: Simtex, MicroProse
Genre: 4X, Turn-based strategy, Strategy

The initial 4X grand strategy game on the list is “Master of Orion 2: Battle at Antares.” Following the traditional 4X approach, the gameplay emphasizes conquest, resource acquisition, territorial expansion, and discovery. While many grand strategy games deviate from this established formula, “Master of Orion 2: Battle at Antares” remains faithful to its origins, offering a smooth and refined gaming experience.

Master of Orion 2: Battle at Antares earns a spot on this list due to its exceptional representation of what an excellent 4X strategy game entails. Yet, it’s important to note that the game features a rather challenging learning curve, which might make it less accessible for players looking for a more casual experience.

2 X-COM: UFO Defense

Innovative Setting And Excellent Tactical Combat

The game known as “X-COM: UFO Defense” or “UFO: Enemy Unknown” marked the beginning of the XCOM series, prior to the removal of the hyphen. This title stood out when it was initially released due to its distinctive setting and gameplay mechanics, a formula that has remained consistent throughout the franchise’s history.

Undeniably, what makes X-COM: UFO Defense stand out is its innovative nature. It dared to deviate from the established strategy game mold, bringing novelty to the table and redefining the genre. Though it may seem outdated today, it’s still worth giving a try.

1 Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri

Leaning On Proven Civilization Gameplay

Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri adopts strategies honed from earlier games within the Civilization series, but sets them in an alien world environment. This innovative approach allowed the developers to flex their creative muscles more freely, as they weren’t bound by historical accuracy. Consequently, it produced a game that seamlessly blended engaging strategy elements with an allure of exploration and novelty.

The game stands out at the top due to its skillful blend of storytelling that keeps the player engaged without overwhelming them. Essentially, it offers all the key components of a comprehensive turn-based strategy game, yet incorporates an appealing narrative to guide the player and help them grasp the game mechanics effectively. This approach, which is common in many contemporary strategy games, has been effective since its introduction.

2024-09-14 09:04