Best strategy games of all time for Windows

Strategic games put your wit to the test. They range from turn-based management simulators to real-time tactical battlefields. Some of the games on the list are well-known cult classics, others may become pleasant discoveries.

Price  
Setting  
Strategy type  
Faction selection  
Base management   ? The gameplay is based on managing a central hub producing units.
Alternate camera view   ? Cinematic, action, etc.
Roleplaying elements   ? Stats and skills of units
Global mode   ? Access to multiple scenarios and areas in-game
Map exploration  
Tactical control   ? Direct control over units in battle
Built-in content creator   ? For maps, scenarios, campaigns
Multiplayer mode  
Story campaigns  
Platforms  
Free for Battle.net users
Sci-Fi
Real-time
Mac OS, Windows
14.99
Historical/fantasy
Simulation
Windows
$5
Sci-Fi
Real-time/turn-based
Windows
$4.00
Sci-Fi
Real-time
WIndows
Free
Fantasy
Turn-based
Windows

Price

Free for Battle.net users

14.99

$5

$4.00

Free

Setting

Sci-Fi

Historical/fantasy

Sci-Fi

Sci-Fi

Fantasy

Strategy type

Real-time

Simulation

Real-time/turn-based

Real-time

Turn-based

Faction selection

Base management

Alternate camera view

Roleplaying elements

Global mode

Map exploration

Tactical control

Built-in content creator

Multiplayer mode

Story campaigns

Platforms

Mac OS, Windows

Windows

Windows

WIndows

Windows

Starcraft
Starcraft
3 (100%) 0 (0%)
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Starcraft is a cult classic, so not much needs to be said about the staple of the real-time strategy genre. Control three unique factions of Terrans, Protoss, or Zerg, and complete story modes of competing in skirmishes utilizing unique tactics. Or make your own maps. Or compete on Battle.net. It has everything.
Screenshot
Zerg Mission
Features
  • Unique Sci-Fi setting.
  • Diverse unit types.
  • Long-standing multiplayer.
Advantages
  • Multiple tactical opportunities.
  • Supports user modifications.
  • Unit upgrading and micro management.
  • A plethora of bonus content and easter eggs.
Disadvantages
  • Requires internet connection for running.
  • Requires Battle.net account.
Official website:
us.blizzard.com
Stronghold Legends
Stronghold Legends
5 (71%) 2 (29%)
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Legends is an expansion for the original Stronghold 2 using the same engine and providing players the opportunity to fill the boots of legendary world leaders such as King Arthur and Vlad Dracula. Its core gameplay is developing your castle, organizing infrastructure and defeating enemy forces while conquering the land. The game works under Windows and costs $14.99 to be played.
Screenshot
Preview 2
Features
  • Multiple story campaigns.
  • Diverse map environments.
  • Dynamic AI reactions.
Advantages
  • Balanced economic and combat mechanics.
  • Free choice in the stretegic mode.
  • A chance to play as legendary personalities.
  • Multiple additional scenarios.
Disadvantages
  • Various technical issues.
  • A bit disballanced.
Official website:
fireflyworlds.com
UFO Afterlight
UFO Afterlight
5 (71%) 2 (29%)
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Afterlight is the third in UFO series and follows the Earth's resistance forces who have to flee the planet and regroup to once again attack the invaders. Once again, you manage your team, gather resources and engage in team-based warfare. The game works on WIndows and costs $5.00.
Features
  • A tycoon/strategy hybrid.
  • Combines turn-based and real-time gameplay.
  • Squad development is possible.
Advantages
  • Personalization options for combat units.
  • Unique new settings affecting management and combat.
  • Class-based unit abilities.
  • Research added to resource gathering.
Disadvantages
  • Unit purchase option has been removed.
Official website:
ufo-afterlight.com
Supreme Commander
Supreme Commander
6 (100%) 0 (0%)
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Participate in a millenium war as one of the three opposing parties: The United Union Federation, The Cybran Nation, and The Aeon Illuminate. This real-time strategy puts you into the sci-fi world with mechs and mechanical titans. The game runs under Windows and costs $4.00.
Screenshot
Main View
Features
  • Three factions to choose from.
  • Supports unit formations.
  • A detailed story.
Advantages
  • Complex system of units upgrade.
  • Unique and powerful comanding units for each side.
  • Only two resources used: Energy and Mass.
Disadvantages
  • Created for old Windows versions.
  • Map expands only when missions are accomplished.
Official website:
store.steampowered.com
Heroes Of Might And Magic - In The Wake of Gods
Heroes Of Might And Magic - In The Wake of Gods
5 (83%) 1 (17%)
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In The Wake of Gods is a final and unofficial extension for the classic game Heroes of Might and Magic III. It does not only add new units, artifacts and maps to the combined content of Armageddon’s Blade and The Shadow of Death but incorporates script-based options for gameplay modification. Works under Windows and is completely free.
Screenshot
Main View
Features
  • Unqiue factions.
  • Combined mechanics and units from all heroes II add-ons.
  • RPG and tactical combat hybrid.
Advantages
  • Special mechanics for attack mode selection in battles.
  • Rebalanced hero parameters.
  • New unit exchange mechanics.
  • Added city destruction mechanics.
  • Demigod unit class.
Disadvantages
  • Minor unit disbalance.
  • Minor bugs.
Official website:
moddb.com

Conclusion

As we can see, Starcraft wins the race providing the freedom for creation, yet this is Sci-Fi and if you love the Medieval period, Stronghold Legends is there for you. Which strategy game did you play first? We are looking for your experience and other game suggestions in the comments section below.

Comments

R
rohit 2 years ago

Garry's Mod.

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