The Galactic Conquest Continues: Games Like StarCraft II
For fans of real-time strategy (RTS) games, there’s no denying the iconic status of Blizzard Entertainment’s StarCraft series. With StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty launching in 2010, players worldwide were treated to an unparalleled experience blending engaging gameplay mechanics with intricate storyline and character development. If you’re seeking similar thrills from other titles, glance no further! This comprehensive article delves into the best games like StarCraft II, highlighting their unique features and strengths.
I. Age of Empires
Released in 2013 by Microsoft Studios, Age of Empires III: Complete Edition is an updated version of this classic RTS series. Like StarCraft II, it combines resource gathering with military conquests and exploration. The game’s extensive campaign mode spans centuries from the early colonial era to modern-day conflicts.
Unique features:
- Improved graphics compared to previous titles
- New units, buildings, and technologies for players to master
- Strong multiplayer support
II. Command & Conquer: Red Alert
Another classic RTS series receives a makeover with Command & Conquer: Remastered Collectoin (2020) from Victory Games. This reimagined title combines the original game’s charm with enhanced visuals and refined gameplay mechanics.
Unique features:
- A blend of Cold War-era military units and fantastical mechs
- Cooperative campaign mode for up to eight players
- Enhanced AI opponents for more challenging battles
III. Total War
This venerable RTS franchise, now in its sixth iteration (Total War: Three Kingdoms), boasts a unique combination of grand-scale battles, politics, and resource management from Creative Assembly.
Unique features:
- Commanding massive armies with varying strengths and weaknesses
- In-depth diplomacy system for negotiating alliances or crushing rival factions
- Dynamic campaign maps reflecting the ebb and flow of war
IV. Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne
Although an older title (2003), this real-time strategy game from Blizzard Entertainment remains a benchmark for its engaging single-player campaign, improved multiplayer mode, and richly detailed fantasy setting.
Unique features:
- Explore Azeroth’s mystical realm in search of ancient artifacts
- Face off against powerful demonic forces with diverse hero units
- Deep character customization options for crafting unique playstyles
V. Company of Heroes
In this World War II-themed RTS from Relic Entertainment (2013), players lead a team of Allied troops through varied campaigns set amidst the global conflict.
Unique features:
- Enhanced graphics and realistic environments recreating WWII battlefields
- Commanding infantry, armor, and air units in coordination with strategic support structures
- Strong focus on storytelling and character development
VI. Rise of Nations
Published by Microsoft Studios (2015), this classic RTS title from Big Huge Games combines historical settings with modern warfare elements.
Unique features:
- Build a civilization from the ground up through eight eras, spanning 1,000 years of history
- Develop technologies to advance military and economic capabilities
- Strong multiplayer mode for competing or cooperative play
VII. Company of Heroes: Tales of Valour
This stand-alone expansion (2007) builds upon the original game’s success by offering new campaigns and playable factions in a World War II setting.
Unique features:
- Introduce fresh units, structures, and technologies to master
- Command Allied or Axis forces through immersive scenarios
- Strengthened focus on storytelling with detailed cinematic sequences
VIII. Age of Empires: Castle Siege
As part of the Age of Empires IV (2021) update from Forgotten Tales, this mode pits players against each other in medieval castles, leveraging resources and constructing defensive structures.
Unique features:
- Unique setting centered around siege warfare
- Design and manage a stronghold while repelling attacks or besieging enemy strongholds
- Deep unit customization for creating well-rounded castle garrisons
IX. Total War: Shogun
This 2006 title from Creative Assembly combines medieval Japan with grand-scale battles, diplomacy, and resource management.
Unique features:
- Explore the world of feudal Japan during a time of great change
- Balance military campaigns against diplomatic maneuvers and economic growth
- Engage in thrilling naval combat or land-based skirmishes
X. Homeworld 2
This classic real-time strategy game (2003) from Relic Entertainment combines space battles, planetary conquests, and resource management.
Unique features:
- Command a fleet of spaceships while developing technologies for interstellar travel
- Manage resources to construct facilities and upgrade units
- Engage in epic space battles across diverse environments
XI. The Settlers 7: Paths to Success
This classic RTS series (2010) from Blue Byte combines resource gathering, city-building, and military conquests set during the medieval period.
Unique features:
- Construct and manage a settlement through various eras
- Master trading, diplomacy, or warfare in an ever-changing world
- Explore different playstyles with unique leaders and abilities
XII. Warhammer: End Times – Vermintide
This 2015 cooperative action-RTS hybrid from Fat Shark combines fast-paced combat with RPG elements.
Unique features:
- Play as a skilled warrior fighting alongside AI-controlled allies against hordes of orcs
- Master different hero classes, each with unique abilities and playstyles
- Face off against challenging enemies in an ever-changing battlefield
XIII. World in Conflict
This 2007 real-time strategy game from Massive Entertainment combines large-scale battles with a global conflict setting.
Unique features:
- Command massive armies across diverse environments, including urban warfare
- Develop advanced technologies for military and economic superiority
- Engage in thrilling dogfights or ground-based combat
As StarCraft II fans seek new experiences, these games offer distinct blends of resource management, unit customization, strategic deployment, and immersive storytelling. Whether exploring historical settings (Age of Empires) or venturing into futuristic realms (Starcraft), there’s something for every RTS enthusiast on this list.
Remember to always maintain your gaming edge by keeping an eye out for new releases from popular developers like Blizzard Entertainment!