Building and commanding an army has long been a fascination in games, offering players the chance to strategize, conquer, and dominatevirtual worlds. From real-time strategy (RTS) to turn-based tactics, the gaming landscape hosts a diverse range of games where you can build an army, each with its unique spin on this satisfying gameplay mechanic.
Whether you're drawn to the intricate diplomacy and city management of a 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) game or prefer the quick reflexes and unit control of an RTS, there's a game out there that will let you command your own army. Here, we'll delve into two of the most popular genres for building and commanding an army, highlighting some of the best games they have to offer.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
RTS games emphasize fast-paced action and immediate military response, with resource management and base/squad construction elements woven into the gameplay. In this genre, you'll experience the thrill of executing split-second commands and making tactical decisions that can turns the tide of battle.
RTS games often provide diverse unit selections, intricate upgrade systems, and complex maps to explore, conquering which requires deft strategic planning and execution. For RTS aficionados, these titles offer unmatched immersion and replayability.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition (2019)
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is a remastered version of the classic RTS, transporting players back to the Middle Ages to build and manage historical civilizations. With 14 diverse civilizations, each boasting its unique unit lineup and gameplay quirks, this game offers unparalleled replayability.
Examples of distinct units from various civilizations include the British Longbowmen, the Teutonic Knight, and the Japanese Samurai. With 39 updated campaigns, cataract-level AI, and modernized graphics, Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition ensures timeless RTS enjoyment.
StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty (2010)
Set in the distant future, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty lets you command one of three distinct and powerful alien races: Terrans, Zerg, or Protoss. Each race has a unique playstyle, unit composition, and structures, providing unmatched tactical depth and replayability.
Besides its engrossing single-player campaign, StarCraft II shines with its competitive multiplayer mode, pitting players against each other in strategic showdowns. With the recent announcement of StarCraft II: Remastered, this classic RTS continues to thrill new and veteran players alike.
4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate)
4X games offer a grand, epic scale, focusing on long-term strategy, diplomacy, and base/squad management. Here, your army-building prowess will be put to the test, as you research advanced units, construct reinforced bases, and expand your empire across vast, procedurally generated maps.
Typically played at a slower pace than RTS titles, 4X games reward meticulous planning and long-term strategizing. By balancing expansion, exploitation, warfare, and diplomacy, you'll build an army capable of conquering entire star systems or worlds.
Sid Meier's Civilization VI (2016)
In Sid Meier's Civilization VI, you're not only building an army but also cultivating a thriving civilization from ancient times to the modern era. With 24 playable leaders and their respective civilizations, each boasting unique abilities, units, and wonders, this game delivers unbeatable replayability.
As you advance through history, you'll research powerful units and structures, build wonders that grant bonuses and awe-inspiring leader abilities. Examples of unique units from various civilizations include the’appeldoeil from France, the Hoplites from Greece, and the Samurai from Japan.
Total War: WARHAMMER II (2017)
Total War: WARHAMMER II takes you to the mythical world of the Old World, where you'll command one of eight playable races, each featuring its unique faction rosters, Environmental Context, hero legends, and powerful monstrous units.
With its vast, open maps, competitive multiplayer, and engaging strategic gameplay, Total War: WARHAMMER II transports you to a realm of myth and legend. The game's unique capture and hold mechanic encourages aggressive play, as you race to capture and defend Fertile Ground from rival factions while managing global diplomatic affairs.
This concludes our comprehensive look at some of the best games where you can build an army. As gaming technology advances, we can expect even more innovative and immersive strategies to emerge. Why not explore these captivating titles and start expanding your empire today? Who knows, you might just become the next ruler of the virtual world!