Strategy Games

Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Platform: Xbox
September 18, 2002
From the deepest bunkers and artillery posts of the Third Reich to the bulkhead of an aircraft carrier at sea, Commandos 2 plunges you into realistic war environments. Lead an elite platoon deep into enemy territory, while taking advantage of each soldier's unique abilities. This time, your team members can carry and exchange weapons, and they can swim and drive. An array of new vehicles and weapons, including jeeps, tanks, trucks, ships, bazookas, and flamethrowers make for faster-paced gameplay and intense shoot-outs.
Metascore:
67
User Score:
7.3
Empire Earth: The Art of Conquest

Empire Earth: The Art of Conquest

Platform: PC
September 17, 2002
This add-on to Empire Earth pushes the envelope even further with 3 all new campaigns from the Roman Empire to WWII and finally into the future. Players have conquered new lands before, but this time to continue the dominance of their civilization, they must cross the boundaries of space. [Sierra]
Metascore:
63
User Score:
8.4
Dynasty Tactics

Dynasty Tactics

Platform: PlayStation 2
September 17, 2002
Focusing on the tactical elements of battles in the Three Kingdoms world, this game provides you with the thrill of military victory through the clever maneuvering of diverse units. A multitude of tactical combos can be activated by linking unique attacks together. Smooth graphics using our crowd control system and epic CG movies provide for a game environment that transports the player into the midst of battle.
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.1
Spring Break

Spring Break

Platform: PC
September 10, 2002
It's time to slather on the suntan lotion, slip on your flip-flops, and head down to the beach for an epic spring break party! From feverish flings to sloshed scuffles to savage shark attacks, with Virtual Resort: Spring Break you will experience all the pleasure and pain of running your very own vacation hot spot. As the Spring Break kingpin, you are in charge of creating a tropical playground teeming with coeds, clubs, cabanas and more. Once developed, kick back and watch your guests' hedonistic holiday fun in the sun. The more fun they have, the more fun you have! [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
69
User Score:
7.1
The Partners

The Partners

Platform: PC
September 9, 2002
Partners, an original game, based on psychology and interactions between employees of a law firm. Discover The From now on: the world will look like a TV series, of which you are the writer! For the first time ever: recreate your own business life or imagine your colleagues the way YOU want them to be! But take care: the situation might change according to your characters' needs for love, friends, success, etc. [Monte Cristo]
Metascore:
57
User Score:
tbd
Earth 2150: Lost Souls

Earth 2150: Lost Souls

Platform: PC
September 9, 2002
It is the 7th of December, 2150 and the Earth is quickly coming to an end. An ongoing feud between the Eurasian Dynasty and the United Civilized States has left the planet in disarray - people are hungry, resources are scarce and agricultural production has stopped. But the situation is getting even worse. A series of nuclear explosions near Antarctica have altered the Earth's orbit around the sun, making glaciers melt and the seas rise to threatening levels and the catastrophe has been worsened by meteorite showers that have buried whole parts of the planet. Thanks to a group of scientists from the Lunar Corporation, a long forgotten colony on the Moon, many people have managed to escape the terror and make their way to the nearby safety of Mars, but an unlucky few - the Lost Souls - have been left behind. And now they are seeking revenge. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
6.9
Emperor: Rise of the Middle Kingdom

Emperor: Rise of the Middle Kingdom

Platform: PC
September 9, 2002
You are transported back in time to when emperors reigned and China was the greatest and most resplendent power on earth. Epic in scope, Emperor spans seven dynasties and more than 3,000 years of Chinese history: from China's pre-imperial Xia dynasty circa 2100 BCE to the Mongol invasion of the Middle Kingdom under Genghis Khan in 1211 CE. As Emperor, you will build housing to attract immigrants to your new city. Then the city's workers and farmers, administrators and soldiers will be yours to command, and you will have the work force you need to build a provincial city into a great metropolis. At your bidding, legions of workers will toil to erect walls strong enough to keep the barbarians at bay. Under your banner, armies will march forth to do battle with the enemy. Trade and commerce will flourish and an army of tax collectors will collect the taxes that are due. Schools and clinics, palaces and gardens will embellish the city you have built and proclaim your benevolence to the world. [Sierra]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
7.6
Industry Giant II

Industry Giant II

Platform: PC
September 2, 2002
This brand-new business simulation starts in America at the dawn of the 20th century. Trade and economy range from the rise of industrial mass production to the age of information technologies. [JoWood]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
8.0
Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Platform: PlayStation 2
August 28, 2002
A tactical action/strategy game set against the backdrop of World War II. Take control of an elite group of commandos who must venture deep into enemy territory and utilize their combined expertise to complete a series of mission-based objectives. Go covert into new environments based on authentic WWII locations: the heart of the third Reich, a northern European submarine installation, the headquarters of the Japanese army and more. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
7.1
Cultures 2: The Gates of Asgard

Cultures 2: The Gates of Asgard

Platform: PC
August 26, 2002
Cultures 2 is more than just a part 2. It is a completely new story. Hero Bjorn and his brave Vikings are still the focus but they have to face numerous new challenges. Their adventures take them to alliances with comrades-in-arms and clashes with enemies. The road to their final destination goes through many tricky situations. While the action in the first part took mainly place on the American continent, in part two the Vikings will cover half of Europe and the Middle-East. [JoWood Productions]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
7.6
Dino Island

Dino Island

Platform: PC
August 24, 2002
This is one theme park that will never be extinct, letting you mix and match a kind-hearted stegosaurus with a terrifying T-Rex, give him horns and some teeth, and create a custom-made Dino Island resident. But be careful! One or two dinosaurs and a couple of rides don't necessarily mean colossal success. You have to manage the entire park, building and maintaining the dino enclosures, feeding them, and ensuring they are safe and comfortable. You also need to make sure your visitors are getting their money's worth, offering food, shelter and plenty of rest areas and finally, you have to take control of all the details, overseeing the budgets, planning the shows and making sure your restaurants and gift shops are frequent shopping stops. It's up to you to keep the crowds coming in... and the dinosaurs happy! [Strategy First]
Metascore:
42
User Score:
7.5
Micro Commandos

Micro Commandos

Platform: PC
August 24, 2002
Help them to survive in the world of the BIG! The President of the Intergalactical Military Commission is no longer... His successor will be chosen from the Micro Commandos unit that succeeds in defeating the human world. Stuck in a human basement, the Micro Commandos will seek out the ultimate weapon, that will help them to bring the entire planet to its knees. To do so, they will have to explore every corner of the house and look for essential resources (food, energy and furniture). They will also have to develop their own infrastructure and transportation from scratch. WARNING: enemy commandos as well as cats, cockroaches and rats will do their best to spoil their plans. [Monte Cristo]
Metascore:
56
User Score:
tbd
Celtic Kings: Rage of War

Celtic Kings: Rage of War

Platform: PC
August 21, 2002
Both RTS and Role-Playing gamers will enjoy the experience of becoming the young Warrior Larax, who after losing his beloved one, has given himself to the goddess of war, Kathubodua. In strategic mode, you play against computer opponents or other players on the Internet exercising your strategic and tactical skills to achieve objective victory. You train and command many units, hire and develop heroes, acquire powerful artefacts and conquer strongholds and villages. Launch large-scale military campaigns against your foes to bring them to their knees. The game-play in this mode is similar to the traditional RTS gameplay. In adventure mode, you control a party of heroes and explore the world as the struggle between Caesar and the Gaul chieftain evolves. Which side you will support? Will you betray your allies of yesterday? Will you follow the mysterious druids as they request your assistance? Command strongholds and large armies; take risky missions behind the enemy lines. Find powerful artefacts to support you. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
7.3
Medieval: Total War

Medieval: Total War

Platform: PC
August 19, 2002
It opens with the preaching of the first Crusade in 1095. It ends with the fall of Constantinople in 1453. What happens in between is up to you. Guide your kingdom's fortunes through a period of brutal conflict and violent social upheaval. Lay siege to mighty fortresses as you command vast armies across the battlefields of Europe and North Africa. But be careful when forming alliances - and even more so when choosing enemies. For this is Total War: a world where empires fall even faster than they rise, and the penalty for fear is your life. [Activision]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
8.6
Age of Sail II: Privateer's Bounty

Age of Sail II: Privateer's Bounty

Platform: PC
August 13, 2002
Now you too can lead the wooden fleets of the world's most powerful nautical powers into battle in the new standard of naval combat simulation, Age of Sail II: Privateer's Bounty. Never before has every aspect of nautical combat been so faithfully reproduced, from advanced sailing tactics, to the handling of your crews. It's time for you to accept your Letter of Marques, and immerse yourself into an epoch of adventure and intrigue, into the Age of Sail. [Global Star Software]
Metascore:
69
User Score:
tbd
MoonBase Commander

MoonBase Commander

Platform: PC
August 13, 2002
MoonBase Commander puts players in charge of their own lunar territory in a quest to build the most powerful empire on the moon. The key to winning is to find, exploit and use valuable energy pools to eliminate rival factions who are also on the same quest. Along the way players must choose the best way to accomplish their goals by using weapons, surveillance or shields to fortify their defenses. MoonBase Commander features multiple and unique opposing factions, bright graphics, a light storyline and various types of terrain that can be easily customized with the terrain editor. [Infogrames]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
6.6
Space HoRSE

Space HoRSE

Platform: PC
August 1, 2002
A great depression rages across the galaxy. All around, piracy is rampant - an honest buck is rarely made. Equipped with your life savings, you depart for an uncolonized planet in deep space, with the hopes of a fresh start and an honest living...
Metascore:
54
User Score:
tbd
Strategic Command: European Theater

Strategic Command: European Theater

Platform: PC
July 16, 2002
As the supreme commander of the Axis or Allied forces, the player shapes the fates of the nations at war during the Second World War in Europe. Political options, research and upgrade of equipment, management of supply and resources and the strategic employment of one's armed forces are some of the keys to success. With limited phase restrictions and wide open turns you are in complete control to try many different approaches and entertain just as many possible outcomes. The future of Europe and perhaps ultimate glory is in your hands. [Battlefront.com]
Metascore:
70
User Score:
7.6
Austerlitz: Napoleon's Greatest Victory

Austerlitz: Napoleon's Greatest Victory

Platform: PC
July 10, 2002
When he saw the magnificent sunrise burning through the mist on the morning of the Battle of Austerlitz, Napoleon thought he could see his destiny. The combined Russian and Austrian armies were following the French emperor's script to the letter. The Allies believed they were superior in the numbers and that Napoleon, who had fallen back from the best defensive position in the area, the Pratzen Heights, was afraid of a confrontation. The Allied high command was wrong. The latest game in The Greatest Battles Series. Originally based on the Sid Meiers' "Gettysburg" engine, this game will be the basis for an entire new series of grand battles. [Shrapnel Games]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
6.4
Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos

Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos

Platform: PC
July 3, 2002
[Metacritic's 2002 PC Game of the Year] It has been nearly fifteen years since the war between the orcs and humans ended. An uneasy peace settled over the land while, for years, the drums of war were silent. Yet the kingdoms of men grew complacent in their victory - and slowly, the defeated orcish clans regrouped under the banner of a new visionary leader. Now a darker shadow has fallen over the world, threatening to extinguish all life - all hope. The drums of war play upon the winds once again - rising urgently towards the inevitable hour when the skies will rain fire - and the world will tremble before the coming of the Burning Legion. The Day of Judgment has come... [Blizzard]
Metascore:
92
User Score:
9.2
Rock Manager

Rock Manager

Platform: PC
June 30, 2002
Rock Manager puts you in complete control of a rock band. Your task is simple; make them stars! Bribe the local radio station to get more airplay for your band, or buy up all your records to create increased demand. Use any means necessary to make the band climb the charts - anything goes in this strung-out world of swindle, lies and rock n' roll. [Dreamcatcher]
Metascore:
62
User Score:
6.8
Romance of the Three Kingdoms VII

Romance of the Three Kingdoms VII

Platform: PlayStation 2
June 25, 2002
This title is the latest in the popular Romance of the Three Kingdoms series of strategy games revolving around the Three Kingdoms period of ancient China. RTK VII introduces a number of dramatic improvements to the series, such as the ability to play as any character in the game, as well as a variety of character roles/positions. [KOEI]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
8.5
Maximum Capacity: Hotel Giant

Maximum Capacity: Hotel Giant

Platform: PC
June 24, 2002
From a small, family-owned bed and breakfast to a large, secluded mega-hotel for the stars: hotels come in all shape and styles. Be at the forefront of the tourism industry, owning and running a hotel. Starting out small with a hotel for business travelers, players are challenged to build a successful business, overcoming all obstacles that the world of business management can throw at them. With over 26 different complexes to choose from, players are able to create a tailor-made hotel that exactly meets their dreams and the needs of the virtual guests. [JoWood Productions]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
7.5
Airborne Assault: Red Devils Over Arnhem

Airborne Assault: Red Devils Over Arnhem

Platform: PC
June 17, 2002
Take part in the biggest Airborne operation in history! Can your British "Red Devils" seize and hold the Rhine crossings and end the war before Christmas 1944? Or can your desperate German forces resist the onslaught and eliminate this threat to the German heartland?
Metascore:
82
User Score:
7.3
Magic: The Gathering Online

Magic: The Gathering Online

Platform: PC
June 14, 2002
In the Magic Online game, you will be able to purchase digital cards and trade them with other players, build and customize your decks and organize your card collection right on the PC. A wide range of game rooms will allow players of different levels to find just the right environment for them, from casual pick-up games to highly competitive tournaments. Players new to the Magic game will be able to observe games in the Casual Play room. Built-in tutorials and practice rooms will help get game-play under way quickly.
Metascore:
75
User Score:
5.1
Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne

Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne

Platform: PC
June 12, 2002
Delivering an invigorating mix of Empire Building, Role-playing, and Warfare, Age Of Wonders II offers the ultimate in fantasy turn-based strategy. Explore a world full of mythical creatures and mysterious lands. Build an impressive force as an all-powerful Wizard through dangerous perils and exhilarating challenges. Now is your time to embrace your destiny and take your rightful place at the head of the Circle, forever. [GodGames]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.6
Legion (2002)

Legion (2002)

Platform: PC
June 3, 2002
Augustus, Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, Hannibal, leaders that became legend during this chaotic time of Roman history. Now's your chance to join the ranks of these great strategists and conquer Europe during the time of the Roman Empire. Legion is a revolutionary, high-level strategy game, which unfolds during the rich history that was the Roman Empire. The game features both strategic and tactical elements. At the strategic level, you control vast armies and attempt to carve an Empire from the assortment of tribes and city-states that occupied ancient Italy, France and Britain. At the tactical level, you must position your armies to take advantage of terrain and make use of the best formations, in order to achieve victory. The battles are a spectacle as well as a game play feature and players will enjoy them purely for the fun of watching hundreds of men fighting a bloody engagement. [Strategy First Inc.]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
6.9
Big Biz Tycoon

Big Biz Tycoon

Platform: PC
May 29, 2002
It's your job to design and build an office from the ground up. You will be designing everything from the bathroom location to the board room specifications. You will hire, fire and reward your employees... Are you a NATURAL LEADER or just someone who is destined for middle management forever? [Activision Value]
Metascore:
50
User Score:
3.5
Zoo Tycoon: Dinosaur Digs

Zoo Tycoon: Dinosaur Digs

Platform: PC
May 19, 2002
The fun has evolved into prehistoric pandemonium as you add dinosaurs to your zoo with the Zoo Tycoon Dinosaur Digs expansion pack! Zookeepers will be envious as you let your imagination run wild building the most vibrant and beautiful zoo with dinosaurs and ice age beasts. Manage more than 20 new awe-inspiring creatures including the T-rex, Velociraptor, and Sabre-tooth cat while keeping your animals and guests happy and you will be a Zoo Tycoon! [Microsoft]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
7.5
Creatures

Creatures

Platform: PlayStation
May 18, 2002
Metascore:
43
User Score:
6.4
Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns

Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns

Platform: PC
May 14, 2002
Clone Campaigns features 14 original single-player combat scenarios, new civilizations, environments, vehicles, and more than 200 new units. By adding the expansion pack to Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds: Clone Campaigns, in both skirmish and multiplayer modes, players can mix and match civilizations from Attack of the Clones with those from the classic Star Wars universe. [LucasArts]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
7.6
Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

Platform: Game Boy Advance
May 11, 2002
Under the watchful eye of the Holy Lodis Empire, strange things are happening on the island of Ovis. Powerful forces have been set in motion, but their motives are masked by political intrigue. It is your mission to investigate these occurrences and discover the true intentions of those involved. The ending of the game will depend on the actions that the main character, Alphonse, takes. You will make many revelations as you proceed, but you must survive the unrelenting battles and cultivate your characters' abilities to unveil the ultimate truth.
Metascore:
88
User Score:
8.7
Project Earth: Starmageddon

Project Earth: Starmageddon

Platform: PC
April 25, 2002
Earth sends a fleet of 'Sundivers', city sized ships, controlled with the power of the mind to a new planet. But on the way to there, the Sundivers are intercepted by a league of alien ships. Play a Sundiver, mine asteroids for necessary minerals, build your army to defeat the alien fleet and help humanity colonize it's third planet. [DreamCatcher]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
6.2
Warrior Kings

Warrior Kings

Platform: PC
April 13, 2002
Set in a fantastical medieval world where small Kingdoms struggle for supremacy in a chaotic land of knights, and demons, you are the ruler of a new kingdom, born from the ashes of a once mighty realm. To resurrect this realm to its former glory you must forge order out of chaos by uniting the fragmented lands into a single, mighty empire under the rule of one warrior king - you. [Microids]
Metascore:
73
User Score:
7.6
Ultimate Ride Coaster Deluxe

Ultimate Ride Coaster Deluxe

Platform: PC
March 31, 2002
Design, customize, test, ride and complete missions with a variety of roller coasters in your very own theme park. In Imagineering Mode, you are a roller coaster designer and are given the task to build roller coasters based on very specific criteria. In the Build Mode, you create any roller coaster you can imagine, and customize it with environments, backgrounds, characters and props. When you've got your Ultimate Ride you can e-mail it to your friends or post in on www.ultimateridegame.com, CoasterXchange and compete for the rank of ROLLERGOD. [Disney Interactive]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
5.9
Cossacks: The Art of War

Cossacks: The Art of War

Platform: PC
March 31, 2002
The focus of this expansion to "Cossacks: European Wars" is on an improved and more dynamic single player mode with adjustable difficulty. In addition to that the internet play and community features were greatly improved allowing players to check out each others histories and review recorded games. New units, nations, ships, a map editor, joining forces with the computer and exchanging resources all together take Cossacks to a new level. [CDV]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
8.3
SuperPower

SuperPower

Platform: PC
March 28, 2002
A truly unique military and geo political simulator which allows the player the ability to decide on how they want to play the game. Built using recent UN and CIA data the player can play as any 1 of 140 nations and strive to solve the real world economic, social and political problems facing that country. From a military standpoint there are up to 4000 unique deployable units which can be used to fight strategic battles anywhere around the globe. [DreamCatcher]
Metascore:
39
User Score:
3.8
Heroes of Might and Magic IV

Heroes of Might and Magic IV

Platform: PC
March 28, 2002
Lead multiple hero-characters into battle to fight alongside troops for an intense combat experience. Encounter all-new heroes and over 60 creatures in 6 massive campaigns and 24 scenarios. With an all-new game engine, lifelike isometric view, breathtaking graphics and richly detailed landscapes, the adventure map comes alive! With 48 Hero Classes and all-new skill and magic systems, summon all your strategic insight, tactical cunning and leadership abilities to ascend to the throne of this perilous new world! [3DO]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
7.6
Army Men: RTS

Army Men: RTS

Platform: PlayStation 2
March 27, 2002
A deep and strategic adventure without the intimidation of other Real-Time Strategy games. Army Men: RTS features an intuitive interface custom designed for the PlayStation 2, and is easy to pick up and play. This is not another plastic soldier game; the game forces players to think about how to strategically build and manage troops, vehicles and buildings while involved in an all out war! [3DO]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
6.6
Dragon Throne: Battle of Red Cliffs

Dragon Throne: Battle of Red Cliffs

Platform: PC
March 26, 2002
Travel back in time to one of the most important battles in Chinese history with this sequel to "Fate of the Dragon." The Battle of Red Cliffs was regarded as a great milestone in the Three Kingdoms period. In July, 208 AD, after pacifying the north, General Cao Cao mustered his troops and headed south with the intent of unifying the realm. After a series of quick victories Cao Cao had become so arrogant that he completely underestimated his rivals Sun Quan and Liu Bei, and failed to take advantage this precious opportunity to unify the realm. On the contrary, he suffered a huge defeat even though his crack forces greatly outnumbered the opposing forces. After the Battle of Red Cliffs, the division of the realm into three parts began to take shape. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
60
User Score:
tbd
Army Men: RTS

Army Men: RTS

Platform: PC
March 24, 2002
A deep and strategic war game without the intimidation factor of other Real-Time Strategies. Army Men: RTS features an intuitive interface and easy-to-learn controls. This is not another plastic soldier game; the game forces players to think about how to strategically build and manage troops, vehicles and buildings while involved in a full out war! [3DO]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
8.4
Freedom Force

Freedom Force

Platform: PC
March 24, 2002
From a distant corner of the galaxy, an evil alien race sets in motion a sinister plan to conquer the Earth. They unleash a powerful catalyst - Energy X - that imbues the planet's worst miscreants with super-powers to bring the planet to its knees. Now Earth's only hope lies with a new breed of heroes... The Freedom Force! Command a squad of comic book heroes in the defense of Patriot City. Choose from over a dozen heroes or create your own comic champions. Fight for freedom in over 20 action-packed missions. Restore order in a completely interactive 3D world. Take your heroes online and join the fight in multiplayer mode. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
90
User Score:
7.8
Dark Planet: Battle for Natrolis

Dark Planet: Battle for Natrolis

Platform: PC
March 20, 2002
For eons, the planet Natrolis was controlled by the magic of the reptilian Sorin race. But when a fleet of tech-powered humans arrives to colonize the surface, they awaken the unimaginable: the Dreil, a hyper evolved insectoid warrior race hibernating deep within the planet's core. Now, all three forces collide in a mortal struggle for domination. [Ubi Soft]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
7.1
Diggles

Diggles

Platform: PC
March 20, 2002
Accompany your Diggles clan and descend into an unexplored underground world full of great adventures, dangers and mysteries. Raise your Diggles, provide them with food, have them work hard and meet unique, strange creatures. Solve the secret of the horrible mighty Fenris and prove your fighting and Karate skills in tournaments and dojos. But watch out! Never lose track of your Diggles. [Innonics]
Metascore:
62
User Score:
8.4
Casino Mogul

Casino Mogul

Platform: PC
March 17, 2002
Have you ever dreamed of running your own casino? Here's your chance! Start with the bare building and build, design and manage you own casino. Invest in games and decor, hire & fire your employees, manage your clients' every need and sign the best entertainment in town to make YOUR casino the hottest spot of the strip, in this one-of-a-kind exciting sim game! [DreamCatcher Interactive]
Metascore:
61
User Score:
tbd
Warlords Battlecry II

Warlords Battlecry II

Platform: PC
March 11, 2002
Experience a unique combination of role-playing heroes and real-time strategy game play. Build Hero warriors in the Warlord's fantasy world of Etheria and develop them into unique classes such as Death Knight, Assassin or Ice Mage. A new single player campaign delivers 12 unique sides, new terrain and new magical effects. Create multiple heroes and track their courage in the single player campaign or over the Internet. [Ubi Soft]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.4
Golf Resort Tycoon II

Golf Resort Tycoon II

Platform: PC
February 28, 2002
Activision Value's follow-up to "Golf Resort Tycoon," a management strategy game released in mid-2001.
Metascore:
56
User Score:
tbd
Zone of the Enders: The Fist of Mars

Zone of the Enders: The Fist of Mars

Platform: Game Boy Advance
February 26, 2002
The year is 2173 A.D. A young boy named Cage finds himself in control of a fully armed prototype mechanized robots and now he must prevent a space colony hijack of Mars. An army of trucks, tanks, fighters, and giant, anime-style robots all collide in this exciting new chapter of the Zone of the Enders saga.
Metascore:
71
User Score:
8.2
BCT Commander

BCT Commander

Platform: PC
February 23, 2002
Based on the battalion/brigade level tactical simulator, JANUS, and designed for and used by the army to train its senior commanders, this windows-based simulation retains all of the realism of its mainframe-based predecessor, while improving on the user interface by using windows-style point and click commands. [Shrapnel Games]
Metascore:
61
User Score:
tbd
Strange Adventures in Infinite Space

Strange Adventures in Infinite Space

Platform: PC
February 22, 2002
It's got all the fun and excitement of a traditional exploration game, boiled down to the best twenty minutes. Your strange adventure begins on the planet Hope, where you've been charged with the task of exploring the galaxy and returning with as much neat stuff as possible in just ten years. Unless you find a great star drive, that's usually not enough time to reach every star! You'll plan your route carefully, trade with friendly aliens when you can, and try not to get blown to dust by the miscellaneous bad guys you will inevitably encounter. [Cheapass Games]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.5
Trainz

Trainz

Platform: PC
February 10, 2002
Trainz is a complete virtual model railroad experience that allows you to collect, create and control, the many aspects of a working railroad. Start by building up your collection of locomotives, rolling stock, objects, buildings, flora and fauna, then create the ultimate railroad layout using the simplest and best landscape editing tool available before jumping into the driver's seat for a whole new perspective. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
7.1
Tropico: Paradise Island

Tropico: Paradise Island

Platform: PC
February 3, 2002
As the all-powerful dictator El Presidente in this "Tropico" expansion, face new challenges as you build your thriving island paradise... not to mention a bountiful Swiss bank account. Paradise Island provides more tourist attractions such as beach villas, tennis courts, and nature preserves to help lure those Yanqui tourists. And for you "evil" tyrants out there, new dictator attributes allow for the success of even the most unjust regime! It may be time to enforce Martial Law, because it looks like there's trouble in paradise! [Take 2]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
7.5
Mall Tycoon

Mall Tycoon

Platform: PC
February 3, 2002
Every mall goer's ideal simulation. Design, build, and manage your very own shopping mall. Conduct marketing campaigns to attract new shoppers, organize fashion shows, and research the latest products to drive your shoppers crazy! The Mall is yours to control. But be careful to balance out your stores, and make sure to pay attention to your customers, because in this world, they are always right! [Take 2 Interactive]
Metascore:
41
User Score:
4.7
Sid Meier's SimGolf

Sid Meier's SimGolf

Platform: PC
January 23, 2002
Be the course designer, CEO, and resident Pro of your own golf resorts around the world. Grow your golf empire from a small, public pitch-and-putt to a global network of five-star resorts. From groundbreaking to par breaking, the ultimate golf design fantasies are in your hands. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
7.6
Disciples II: Dark Prophecy

Disciples II: Dark Prophecy

Platform: PC
January 22, 2002
Dark Prophecy returns gamers to the magical realm of the Sacred Lands where four races - the Empire, the Mountain Clans, the Legions of the Damned and the Undead Hordes - continue the battle for the destiny of their Gods. A decade after the First Great War, the final prophecy continues to unfold. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.7
Black & White: Creature Isle

Black & White: Creature Isle

Platform: PC
January 21, 2002
Travel with your creature to an undiscovered island and encounter the mysterious Brotherhood of Creatures. Undertake their rigorous trials and expand the power of your creature as he learns new skills and abilities. Successfully complete the challenges and earn the group's highest honor -- the Mark of the Brotherhood. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
72
User Score:
7.3
Demonworld: Dark Armies

Demonworld: Dark Armies

Platform: PC
January 13, 2002
The hordes of the Underworld are coming to a village near you. Your mission is to stop these evil beings from taking over the world as you know it. You and your friends will need to use every trick in the book to repel these vicious monsters. You will use the most advance weapons of the 11th century to turn sure defeat into serious victories. [Xicat Interactive]
Metascore:
33
User Score:
5.8
Car Tycoon (2001)

Car Tycoon (2001)

Platform: PC
January 4, 2002
Seize power in the auto industry! In the USA between the years 1950 and 2006, as the boss of a company, you are responsible for the development, production, and sales of your cars, and for holding your ground against the comptition. Wipe the floor with your competition economically and take control of the market in forty different scenarios, each presenting a variety of challenges. [Fishtank Interactive]
Metascore:
46
User Score:
3.8
Mech Platoon

Mech Platoon

Platform: Game Boy Advance
January 3, 2002
The wise men say "there is no end to the truth." In this war-town place, there are two things without end - the universe and greed. Glittering stars give the impression of eternal serenity, but the reality is that they hide a lie. Among them blazes an endless war over limited resources; skirmishes that grow as the universe expands.
Metascore:
77
User Score:
7.6
La Grande Armee at Austerlitz

La Grande Armee at Austerlitz

Platform: PC
December 18, 2001
La Grande Armee Campaign Series aim is to reconstruct the main confrontations of the Napoleonic period from 1805 to 1815, as faithfully as possible. The first game in this series is La Grande Armee At Austerlitz. The La Grande Armee Campaign series game map will be without Hexagons, with an accuracy of one meter. Each confrontation, the losses are evaluated from the numbers, from their organization, their level, and the layout of the battle's place. Graphics are either 2D -to ensure a quick command- or 3D to represent at best the reality of the battle. [Matrix Games]
Metascore:
67
User Score:
5.3
Capitalism II

Capitalism II

Platform: PC
December 16, 2001
Create and control the business empire of your dreams. This in-depth strategy game covers almost every aspect of business that could be encountered in the real world. Use marketing, manufacturing, purchasing, importing, retailing and more to become a corporate CEO. Capitalism?II features 2 new campaigns ? The Capitalist Campaign and the Entrepreneur Campaign ? plus an in-depth tutorial to make the most complex business strategy a breeze to learn. [Ubi Soft]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.6
Casino Tycoon (2001)

Casino Tycoon (2001)

Platform: PC
December 15, 2001
It's your chance to deal, dazzle and entertain for your own Casino! If you ever fancied yourself as a bit of a Robert de Niro or Sharon Stone - then here's your chance to live your dream!
Metascore:
52
User Score:
6.2
Conflict Zone

Conflict Zone

Platform: Dreamcast
December 15, 2001
Enter the world of modern warfare, where the manipulation of media and civilians leads to military victory. As the commander of peacekeeping armies, you must build a campaign using strategy and spin control. Rescue hostages with news cameras rolling and gain public support to upgrade your units; harm innocents, and watch your popularity and power plummet. In Conflict Zone, media manipulation, brainwashing, and human shields are just as important as superior combat skills.
Metascore:
55
User Score:
6.5
Hoshigami: Ruining Blue Earth

Hoshigami: Ruining Blue Earth

Platform: PlayStation
December 10, 2001
In the mystical land of Mardias, the Valaimian Empire threatens to upset the balance of power of the continent. Our hero, Fazz and his band of mercenaries are hired to protect one of the Ruins of Xia from the Valaimian forces. Little do they know, that a more sinister power is rising. Will you be able to stop it before the world of Hoshigami is engulfed in eternal darkness?
Metascore:
62
User Score:
7.0
S.W.I.N.E.

S.W.I.N.E.

Platform: PC
December 3, 2001
The Pig National Army, following the orders of the notorious SteelFang, has attacked across the border of CarrotLand and the Rabbit capital is now under siege. The happy-go-lucky rabbits' only hope to save their country is to launch a guerilla-styled counterattack using a light, mobile shock force comprised of their remaining units under the player's command, in this hillarious RTS. [Fishtank Interactive]
Metascore:
65
User Score:
8.3
Original War

Original War

Platform: PC
December 3, 2001
A real-time strategy game in which the plot influences mission objectives and which has multiple endings depending on player's actions. Contrary to other games, there is no other way of creating new human units. Each man or woman is unique. [Altar Interactive]
Metascore:
61
User Score:
8.8
Pikmin

Pikmin

Platform: GameCube
December 2, 2001
Pikmin may be small and plantlike, but they can be a space traveler's best friend. Stranded on an unknown planet, Captain Olimar must enlist the help of these native Pikmin to rebuild his spaceship before the life-support system runs out. In the meantime, you'll have to fend off attackers and solve various puzzles. To produce additional multicolored Pikmin you must defeat enemies and carry them back to the Pikmin nests called onions. But beware--watching giant predators gobble your Pikmin might make you angrier than you'd expect.
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.7
Monster Rancher Advance

Monster Rancher Advance

Platform: Game Boy Advance
November 28, 2001
Previous games in the Monster Rancher series may have been grander in size or graphical splendor, but Monster Rancher Advance may be the greatest entry yet for a number of reasons.
Metascore:
76
User Score:
8.2
Harvest Moon: Save the Homeland

Harvest Moon: Save the Homeland

Platform: PlayStation 2
November 22, 2001
Perhaps best described as a "Life Simulation," Save the Homeland's object is to successfully save the village from being turned into a resort. Construction begins in a year, so you must find a way to save your homeland before that. The game features nine possible successful endings. [Natsume]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
8.6
Battlecruiser Millennium

Battlecruiser Millennium

Platform: PC
November 18, 2001
The sequel to the critically acclaimed and industry recognized, Battlecruiser space simulation series. [3000 A.D.]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
4.6
Takeda

Takeda

Platform: PC
November 14, 2001
Historically real Japanese feudal war strategy. Test your strategic skills of warfare in the feudal days of Japan. Be a general in the most glorious days of the Japanese empire when Shoguns and warlords ruled the land. Position your armies where you can overwhelm your competitor. Play against a real artificial intelligence based upon the greatest warlords of all time, or combat your best friends in a game of skill and chance. [Xicat Interactive]
Metascore:
58
User Score:
7.0
Etherlords

Etherlords

Platform: PC
November 12, 2001
Select your sorcerer hero from among four powerful races, and summon an army of monsters who clash for control of the world. Upgrade and enhance your magic arsenal, choosing from over 300 available spells. Features over 20 levels. [Fishtank Interactive]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.1
Europa Universalis II

Europa Universalis II

Platform: PC
November 12, 2001
From the medieval battles of Jeanne D'Arc to the fantastic empires of the Incas to the flaming wars of Napoleon, EU II invites you to take the seat as the ruler of a superpower for 400 epic years. The challenge begins in 1419 - the 100 years war between France and England - and ends with the rise and eventual fall of one of Europe's greatest strategists, Napoleon. Take on the role of the Colonizing Might of Spain, the feudal warlords of Samurai Japan as well as the small trading nation of Genoa. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.6
Empire Earth

Empire Earth

Platform: PC
November 12, 2001
From the lead designer of Age of Empires® comes Empire EarthTM a real-time strategy game that lets you control the destiny of a fledgling civilization through 500,000 years of human history. Choose any point in time and establish a civilization to transcend the ages and dominate the earth. [Sierra]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.4
Star Trek: Armada II

Star Trek: Armada II

Platform: PC
November 12, 2001
Takes the concept of its predecessor to it's logical conclusion by allowing the player to experience the game in a full 3D mode, so the battles and elements of space conquest and exploration take on the vividness of the best of Star Trek. With over 45 new ship classes, 22 new special weapons, over 30 new stations, building a devastating armada has been taken to a new level. [Activision]
Metascore:
65
User Score:
7.8
Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds

Star Wars Galactic Battlegrounds

Platform: PC
November 11, 2001
Galactic Battlegrounds lets you lead the armies of Star Wars to victory in intense, real-time strategy clashes. Enter the fray as the Galactic Empire, Rebel Alliance, Trade Federation, Wookiees and other civilizations in campaigns that will determine the final outcome of the Galactic Civil War. [LucasArts]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
8.1
Battle Realms

Battle Realms

Platform: PC
November 7, 2001
A fantasy RTS combining a unique Living Resource System with a detailed combat model. After seven years of exile, Kenji returns to his war-torn homeland. Will he rise above his bitterness and liberate the land under the Dragon Clan flag, or will he give in to his darker side and conquer it as his father's Serpent Clan did so many years ago? Regardless of Kenji's choice, his actions will force him into conflict with the sinister Lotus Clan, the noble Wolf Clan and a mysterious foe from the past. [Ubi Soft]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.6
Kohan: Ahriman's Gift

Kohan: Ahriman's Gift

Platform: PC
November 5, 2001
A stand-alone prequel to "Immortal Sovereigns," this RTS features you as one of the Kohan, an ancient race devastated by a cycle of world-breaking cataclysms. Now, as your strength grows and your destiny unfolds, you have to seize the reins of power and take your place in the war between the Creator and the Shadow. [TimeGate Studios]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.6
Conflict Zone

Conflict Zone

Platform: PC
October 31, 2001
It's early 21st century and the majority of the world's countries have created the International Corps for Peace, an organisation dedicated to bringing about world peace. However, not all countries are keen to be involved and these persist in generating conflicts through the organisation GHOST. A secret organisation, which warrants only the economic interests of its members without any attachment to morals, GHOST, does not hesitate to create crisis situations with the goal of destabilising the world-wide equilibrium and endanger any chance of peace?[Ubi Soft]
Metascore:
59
User Score:
5.3
Sid Meier's Civilization III

Sid Meier's Civilization III

Platform: PC
October 30, 2001
In Civilization III, you'll find new pathways to explore and strategies to employ, greatly expanded diplomacy, more powerful combat, a new trade system, new technologies, more powerful tools to build and manage your empire, and the most detailed and beautiful art, animations and sound ever found in the genre. [Infogrames]
Metascore:
90
User Score:
8.3
Myth III: The Wolf Age

Myth III: The Wolf Age

Platform: PC
October 30, 2001
Myth III: The Wolf Age takes place 1000 years before the first two Myth games. This prequel is a fully 3D squad-based Real Time Strategy (RTS) fantasy game that follows the life of Connacht the Wolf ? the legendary hero who saved humanity from the Myrkridia and the oppressive Trow to ultimately become the Emperor of all human lands. To defeat your enemies, you must cast spells, gain experience, collect items, and build ancient devices. [GodGames]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
6.8
Bomberman Online

Bomberman Online

Platform: Dreamcast
October 30, 2001
Blast your way through the levels by destroying your opponents with strategically placed bombs. You need to use your bombs effectively, but you also better know when to run! Brand new stages and frantic new modes create an endless chain reaction of fun!
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.6
Magic & Mayhem: The Art of Magic

Magic & Mayhem: The Art of Magic

Platform: PC
October 26, 2001
A unique blend of strategy, tactical combat, and role-playing brought to life with full 3D graphics and an epic storyline. As a Wizard, you have the power to conjure terrifying creatures and devastating spells against you opponent. Before each battle, you choose which spells you will bring with you, and then use the spells in real-time tactical combat against your opponent. [Bethesda Softworks]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
7.0
Stronghold

Stronghold

Platform: PC
October 21, 2001
Set in medieval Europe, players establish settlements, build and manage castles and engage in siege warfare. The game incorporates much more building and "community managing" than a traditional RTS, yet allows for a more intense combat experience than city builders have featured in the past. [GodGames]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.8
Zoo Tycoon (2001)

Zoo Tycoon (2001)

Platform: PC
October 17, 2001
Build, manage, and maintain the most healthy and vibrant zoo possible with over 200 animals, exhibits, and zoo materials. Plan wisely, and all of your animals will be happy. Plan poorly, and those lions, tigers, and bears may find a new found interest in you! [Microsoft]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
7.7
World War III: Black Gold

World War III: Black Gold

Platform: PC
October 16, 2001
A fully 3D RTS featuring three parties: the USA, Russia and Iraq. Whichever is chosen allows the player to select two campaigns, consisting of 5 missions on average. Features a first-rate weapon system: anti-aircraft, anti-tank, mass destruction weapons, highly destructive chemical weapons. The existing weapon systems allow the player to exploit weaknesses in the enemy defense. [JoWood]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
5.9
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 - Yuri's Revenge

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 - Yuri's Revenge

Platform: PC
October 10, 2001
This Red Alert 2 Expansion Pack finds Yuri ready for world domination in a post-peace treaty, free world. Refining his mind-control technologies, he's created an army of terrors, from mind-controlling tanks to long-range psychics, whose brains are their biggest weapons. Play as Allies or Soviets, and take on Yuri in Hollywood, Egypt -- even the moon -- in 14 new solo campaign missions. [Westwood Studios]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.9
Patrician II: Quest for Power

Patrician II: Quest for Power

Platform: PC
October 8, 2001
A real-time trading simulation featuring elements of construction and the historical background of maritime trade in the North European area between London and Novgorod during the 1300's. As a citizen of a medieval town, the aim of the game is to rise from the status of a simple trader to that of a big businessman and perhaps to the head of the Hanseatic League. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
6.9
Ultimate Ride

Ultimate Ride

Platform: PC
September 30, 2001
Custom design, test, and ride roller coasters in your own theme park. Ride them in first person mode them posting them online. Also includes a mission mode. [Disney Interactive]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
6.9
Kessen II

Kessen II

Platform: PlayStation 2
September 26, 2001
Assume the role of historical Chinese general Liu Bei of the Shu kingdom whose ultimate goal is the destruction of the Cao Cao, the leader of the Wei kindgom in order to rescue his lost love and claim his opponenet's land. New "Agen Technology" allows for 500 soldiers on-screen at a given time.
Metascore:
71
User Score:
8.7
Monopoly Tycoon

Monopoly Tycoon

Platform: PC
September 24, 2001
A simulation game where the traditional fantasy of "owning it all" is taken to the next level. Plan, invest, build, demolish, and bankrupt your opponents in a real time 3D environment. Construct a fabulous upscale apartment building on Park Place or start a department store chain on Baltic or Mediterranean. It's all about money ? and making more of it than your opponents. [Infogrames]
Metascore:
85
User Score:
7.7
Real War

Real War

Platform: PC
September 24, 2001
Engage in 24 RTS missions, 12 as the U.S. Military and 12 as the terrorist Independent Liberation Army; control over 60 military units, all of which become tougher and faster with experience; and fight against up to 3 other commanders online.
Metascore:
48
User Score:
6.2
Monster Rancher 3

Monster Rancher 3

Platform: PlayStation 2
September 24, 2001
The latest installment in the series lets players breed, train and fight with the monsters they control. New monsters are bred by pairing two existing ones or spawned from music CDs, movie DVDs or game discs. Players train and care for their monsters, much like a virtual pet. Later, they enroll their monsters into tournaments, where they battle for prizes and fame. [Tecmo]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.4
Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Commandos 2: Men of Courage

Platform: PC
September 20, 2001
A tactical action/strategy game set against the backdrop of WWII. Take control of an elite group of commandos who must venture deep into enemy territory and utilize their combined expertise to complete a series of mission-based objectives. Go covert into new environments based on authentic WWII locations: the heart of the third Reich, a northern European submarine installation, and the headquarters of the Japanese army. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.8
Rails Across America

Rails Across America

Platform: PC
September 18, 2001
A game of railroad empires in North America, covering the period from 1830 to the near future. It is a real-time strategy with a "sim" flavor. Rails allows hundreds of tracks with thousands of trains crossing the continent. Players must focus on where to expand, where to compete, and when to call in favors from government officials, union leaders, and other powerful figures. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
7.0
Trade Empires

Trade Empires

Platform: PC
September 17, 2001
A scenario- based, economic simulation game about creating a merchant empire through trade. Controlling your family dynasty of merchants, your mission is to build vast transport and trade networks that change over thousands of years as new technologies are developed and more modern products are discovered. [Eidos Interactive]
Metascore:
69
User Score:
7.2
Far Gate

Far Gate

Platform: PC
September 10, 2001
Seattle development house Super X Studios brings us this 3D real-time strategy title set in massive, constantly changing and moving 360° space environments with 16 missions, 3 unique races, and over 75 distinctive units.
Metascore:
66
User Score:
tbd
Jurassic Park III: Park Builder

Jurassic Park III: Park Builder

Platform: Game Boy Advance
September 10, 2001
Konami's releasing a park-building simulation based on the Jurassic Park series.
Metascore:
65
User Score:
7.4
Advance Wars

Advance Wars

Platform: Game Boy Advance
September 9, 2001
The battle lines have been drawn, and an elite group of sly strategists are massing troops at your borders. You'll have to command ground, air and naval forces if you hope to survive the coming wars, and it won't be easy. With 114 maps to battle on and both Single-Pak and Multi-Pak link modes, Advance Wars brings turn-based strategy to a depth never before seen on a handheld!
Metascore:
92
User Score:
8.8
Sudden Strike Forever

Sudden Strike Forever

Platform: PC
August 22, 2001
This add-on to the fixed unit real-time strategy Sudden Strike includes four new campaigns -- one each for the American, British, Russian, and German armies -- each with three missions. Also included are seven stand-alone scenarios.
Metascore:
70
User Score:
8.6
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