Strategy Games

Z.H.P. Unlosing Ranger vs Darkdeath Evilman 1.

Z.H.P. Unlosing Ranger vs Darkdeath Evilman

Platform: PSP
October 25, 2010
Known as ZettaiHero Keikakuin Japan, Z.H.P. is the only turn based strategy RPG that allows you to create your own, one and only super hero to fight vicious(?) villains. Players can create a super hero literally from head to toe. If you wish to use drills instead of hands or wheels instead of legs you can do so by simply swapping out your body parts. Battle maps are all randomly generated for mad replay value and there are tons of character and secret base customization. Z.H.P. gives you the chance to relive your childhood fantasy of making your own superhero and superhero base.
Metascore:
81
User Score:
9.5
Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos 2.

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
Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne 3.

Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne

Platform: PC
July 1, 2003
The Frozen Throne provides gamers with a vast new chapter in the epic Warcraft saga. In the single-player campaign, players revisit the war-torn world of Azeroth. Several months have passed since Archimonde and the Burning Legion were defeated at the battle of Mount Hyjal, yet a new threat has arisen throughout the land. One new Hero per race, each possessing powerful spells and magical abilities. A host of new units, each equipped with new abilities and spells, giving players the opportunity to create diverse strategic and tactical forms of combat. Player-built shops, unique for each race, equipped with items carefully designed to improve and aid the units of every race. Neutral Heroes, available for recruitment by all players, that can supplement and strengthen a player's army with all new spells and abilities. Expanded multiplayer options over Battle.net including multiple new game types, clan and tournament support. [Blizzard]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
9.2
StarCraft 4.

StarCraft

Platform: PC
March 31, 1998
In the distant future a small group of human exiles have been doomed to fight for survival on the edge of the galaxy. Through military strength, espionage and deceit, a unified Terran government has maintained an uneasy peace. As resources run short, however, these Confederate nations find themselves looking towards the rich worlds of their alien neighbors, the enigmatic Protoss. To further complicate matters, it seems that a previously unknown and deadly species known only as the Zerg has entered Protoss space and is destroying everything in its path. The time for war has come... As the military leader for your species, you must gather the resources you need to train and expand your forces and lead them to victory. 30 unique missions will challenge you across three different campaigns as you control the fate of the galaxy.
Metascore:
88
User Score:
9.1
Age of Empires II: The Conquerors Expansion 5.

Age of Empires II: The Conquerors Expansion

Platform: PC
August 25, 2000
The official add-on to the best-selling, real-time strategy game "Age Of Empires II: The Age Of Kings" challenges veterans and novices to wage war on an epic scale with all-new civilizations, unique units and technologies, and campaigns based on infamous conquerors, such as Attila the Hun, El Cid, and Montezuma. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
9.1
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance 6.

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance

Platform: GameCube
October 17, 2005
Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance brings back to consoles the strategic combat series Fire Emblem from the Game Boy Advance. In this installment, you can control units such as knights, mages, and winged creatures, and use their unique fighting styles to win battles and gain experience. Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance also includes a detailed story that connects the battles and characters together.
Metascore:
85
User Score:
9.1
Fire Emblem 7.

Fire Emblem

Platform: Game Boy Advance
November 3, 2003
Marshall your forces and draw your steel--Fire Emblem has arrived. Fire Emblem combines strategy and role-playing in a story heavy on royal intrigue and backstabbing. As a military strategist, you must choose the best method of attack whether it is swooping from the sky with your Pegasus Knights or striking with a phalanx of armored juggernauts to crush the opposition. With dozens of soldiers, weapons, and magic spells at your service, Fire Emblem equips you with everything you need to dominate the battlefield.
Metascore:
88
User Score:
9.1
Fire Emblem: Awakening 8.

Fire Emblem: Awakening

Platform: 3DS
February 4, 2013
Lead an army of soldiers in a series of scaled turn-based strategy battles. In the process, develop relationships with your team, utilizing their special abilities on the battlefield to gain victory and advance the story, which features a wide array of characters from a variety of nations and backgrounds. They can be joined by a character of your making, with a unique appearance crafted as you see fit.
Metascore:
92
User Score:
9.0
Rome: Total War 9.

Rome: Total War

Platform: PC
September 22, 2004
Rome: Total War is the next generation in epic strategy gaming from the critically acclaimed and award winning Total War brand. The aim of the game is to conquer, rule and manipulate the Roman Empire with the ultimate goal of being declared as the "Imperator" of Rome. Set in a time when the mighty Roman Empire emerged to conquer the known world against powerful enemies; when gladiators fought to a bloody death in the Coliseum; when Spartacus defied the might of the empire; when Hannibal led his invincible army and his war elephants across the Alps to strike fear into the very heart of Rome itself; and when Julius Caesar finally smashed the Barbarian Gauls. This was a time of brutal confrontation between civilisation and barbarism, and of civil war as the ancient world's only superpower turned on itself. A completely new Total War engine uses innovative technology and groundbreaking design to bring the world of ancient Rome to life to deliver the biggest and most cinematic battles ever seen in a videogame. So the battles in Rome: Total War maintain the epic scale that fans of Total War are used to, but now use high-detailed 3D polygonal troops and allows huge cities to be displayed on the battlefields. The result is truly spectacular. [Activision]
Metascore:
92
User Score:
9.0
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings 10.

Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings

Platform: PC
September 30, 1999
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings is the sequel to the award-winning, best-selling real-time strategy game "Age of Empires." Age of Empires II spans a thousand years, from the fall of Rome through the Middle Ages in which players lead one of 13 civilizations into greatness. The game keeps the epic scope of Age of Empires' game play while evolving the combat and economic features. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
92
User Score:
9.0
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions 11.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions

Platform: PSP
October 9, 2007
[Metacritic's 2007 PSP Game of the Year] Originally released in 1997, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is a portable update on the classic turn-based strategy game that gave birth to the world of Ivalice. In development exclusively for the PSP system, FINAL FANTASY TACTICS: The Lion War features PSP system exclusive content not found on the original classic including all-new CG sequences, all-new jobs, new 16:9 widescreen presentation, new head-to-head multiplayer and new storyline elements that refine the genesis of the IVALICE ALLIANCE. [Square Enix]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
9.0
Final Fantasy Tactics 12.

Final Fantasy Tactics

Platform: PlayStation
January 28, 1998
Featuring over 20 types of Jobs and 400 Abilities through the Job System, beautifully laid out 3D environments and the Charge Time Battle System, FINAL FANTASY Tactics provides strategy-intensive gameplay that takes a twist on the traditional RPG.
Metascore:
83
User Score:
9.0
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 13.

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

Platform: Game Boy Advance
September 8, 2003
The world of Final Fantasy returns to Game Boy Advance. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is a deeply diverse strategy and tactics game with battles, missions, swords, and magic. Players assume the role of young Marche Radiuju in the humble burg of St. Ivalice. Alone in a foreign world, Marche befriends a motley crew of low-level monks, mages, archers, and soldiers. The only hope you have of finding your way home is to turn your ragtag group of misfits into a finely tuned fighting force. As you gain experience and reputation, your job options grow as well as the rewards.
Metascore:
87
User Score:
9.0
Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones 14.

Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones

Platform: Game Boy Advance
May 23, 2005
In Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones, you must help protect the nation of Renais from the invading Grado Empire. Plan your strategy, choose your units, and then lead your soldiers in to battle. The more experience your soldiers gain, the more you can upgrade their abilities. This time, your soldiers can gain experience by fighting new monsters in the Tower of Valni.
Metascore:
85
User Score:
9.0
Pikmin 2 15.

Pikmin 2

Platform: GameCube
August 30, 2004
Captain Olimar has returned to the planet where the Pikmin live, and he's all business this time. The company he works for is going bankrupt, so to save it, Olimar must salvage the treasure buried all over the planet. Of course, he'll need the help of the Pikmin to do that--he can't do anything by himself. Control one of two main characters--Olimar or his assistant--as you command your Pikmin to defeat enemies, propagate more Pikmin, collect precious doodads, and solve puzzles. With unlimited time, new colors of Pikmin, and two-player cooperative play, Pikmin 2 improves on the original in many ways.
Metascore:
90
User Score:
9.0
Master of Orion II: Battle at Antares 16.

Master of Orion II: Battle at Antares

Platform: PC
November 22, 1996
Master the unknown before it masters you. The need for galactic expansion is critical. You must conquer alien star systems to secure the resources that will guarantee your supremacy. The ultimate goal is to defeat the evil Antarans.
Metascore:
84
User Score:
9.0
Z The Game 17.

Z The Game

Platform: iOS
July 13, 2011
“Z”, the classic Real Time Strategy Game by the Bitmap Brothers remade for iOS. Fans of this classic strategy title are in for a real treat. Everything is in here from the terrific comedy cut scenes to the frantic game play making this is the definitive version of Z.•Z is a real time war game played in a totally free environment. •A breathtaking race to capture territory and resources. Crush your enemy before they overpower you.•Over thirty minutes of humorous movie sequences provide intros and outros for each level.•Movie and in game voiceovers are spoken in English, French, German, Italian or Spanish.•Z has a conditional Music system, which reflects in real time the mood of the battle.•Z has six types of Robot soldiers each with their own individual personalities. Will they carry out your orders and march into the jaws of hell? Or will they chicken and run?•Robots perform up to 40 different actions, armed with rifles, machine guns and antitank missile launchers.•Twenty challenging levels set on five planets each with a unique terrain ranging from Arctic waste to lands of fire and lava. •In game world map and radar which can be displayed at any time. •Lots of hardware for you and your soldiers to control, ranging from three types of tanks, jeeps, repair vehicles and armoured personal carriers to field guns and missile launchers.•Robot leaders provide you with spoken alerts throughout the game.•Capture and control installations including factories manufacturing robots and vehicles, radar and vehicle repair facilities. •You choose what kind of robot or vehicle your factories manufacture.•Z comes with pictorial player guide.•Z is a dual app that can be played on either your iPad or iPhone/iPod Touch for a single purchase. •Gamecenter and Openfaint achievements Z is... the fastest, funniest, most frantic, feature-packed action-strategy game you'll play this century!
Metascore:
74
User Score:
9.0
GrimGrimoire 18.

GrimGrimoire

Platform: PlayStation 2
June 26, 2007
Lillet Blan was very excited. Her heart had been racing since the moment she heard Lillet had been invited to enroll into a Magic Academy where only talented youths were personally sought out by the greatest wizards. The school was lead by the famous wizard, Gammel Dore, who had once defeated the Archmage. And the campus on which they study, the Silver Star tower, was once the destroyed Archmage's castle. The tower was full of unsolved mysteries and dangers, and this attracted many who had their own personal reasons in mind. Lilet had opened her first grimoire, and began her studies. But only five days later, a terrifying disaster threatens the academy, and all lives are lost. All except she, who had traveled back throgh time without knowing why...Can Lillet come closer to the truth by repeating days? Can she end the nightmare at the end of those five days? [NIS America]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.9
Medieval II: Total War 19.

Medieval II: Total War

Platform: PC
November 13, 2006
Medieval 2: Total War boasts an impressive array of new graphical and gameplay enhancements, including the capability for a massive 10,000 dynamic characters to be taken into battle at any one time. On top of this, The Creative Assembly have implemented a fully redesigned multiplayer mode that offers a dynamic multi-battle campaign bolstered by an unprecedented level of visceral combat choreography that reflects the brutality of medieval warfare. Set in the most turbulent and bloody era in European history, Medieval 2: Total War allows gamers to lead their armies across the battlefields of Europe and the Holy Land before discovering the Americas and doing battle with the fearsome Aztecs. Medieval 2: Total War offers a vastly enhanced terrain model to create new graphically rich environments portraying breathtaking cliff top castles and enhanced settlement features that are unique to each civilisation. [Sega]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
8.9
Age of Mythology 20.

Age of Mythology

Platform: PC
November 1, 2002
Age of Mythology transports players to a time when heroes did battle with monsters of legend and the gods intervened in the affairs of mortal men. Players wage war using human armies and diplomacy, progress through development ages, enhance military and economic performance with improvements, and manage economics through resource gathering and trade. Mythology enters the mix when players call upon the gods to act on their behalf or reinforce their armies with more than 20 mythological creatures. Ensemble Studios' new 3D engine adds a deep richness of graphical detail and creates a unique new title based on the ancient cultural history of the Greek, Norse, and Egyptian cultures, which are divided into nine detailed civilizations. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.9
Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes 21.

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes

Platform: Switch
June 24, 2022
Join Fire Emblem: Three Houses characters as you engage in massive battles across Fódlan Edelgard, Dimitri, Claude, and other Fire Emblem: Three Houses characters return to put their combat expertise on display as you revisit a war-torn Fódlan. Unleash devastating combos and striking special moves in action-packed, real-time combat. Cut through hordes of enemies as characters from the Fire Emblem: Three Houses game. Take down dozens of foes with Edelgard’s axe or Dimitri’s lance, or blast enemies from a distance with Claude’s bow. Slash, swing, and spear your way to a brighter future for Fódlan.
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.9
RimWorld 22.

RimWorld

Platform: PC
October 17, 2018
A sci-fi colony sim driven by an intelligent AI storyteller. Inspired by Dwarf Fortress and Firefly. Generates stories by simulating psychology, ecology, gunplay, melee combat, climate, biomes, diplomacy, interpersonal relationships, art, medicine, trade, and more.
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.9
Pikmin 4 23.

Pikmin 4

Platform: Switch
July 21, 2023
Chart a mysterious planet with curious plantlike Pikmin that come in different types in Pikmin 4 - like the brand-new Ice Pikmin! The capable canine, Oatchi, will also help to overcome big challenges.
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.9
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 24.

Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2

Platform: PC
October 21, 2000
Wielding strange new technologies and hungering for revenge, the Soviet Empire invades America. New York City and Washington are overwhelmed. Allied forces, unprepared for the surprise attack, are decimated. Will freedom be crushed under the heels of Communist aggression? [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.9
Command & Conquer 25.

Command & Conquer

Platform: PC
September 26, 1995
Set in a gritty, high-tech world C&C utilizes electronic intelligence and covert surveillance to determine who reigns supreme. Join the forces of either the Global Defense Initiative (GDI) or the Brotherhood of Nod, and fight for what you feel is right. [Westwood]
Metascore:
94
User Score:
8.9
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 - Yuri's Revenge 26.

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
Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn 27.

Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn

Platform: Wii
November 5, 2007
Three years have passed since King Ashnard of Daein invaded neighboring Crimea and, in doing so, almost doomed the world by awakening the slumbering goddess of chaos. Now, the fires of war burn bright once again, and a band of freedom fighters unites to break the foreign chains that bind their homeland. As this new war spreads, Ike and the Greil Mercenaries find themselves caught up once again in events that threaten to awaken powers that will judge the world - and find it wanting. A goddess' judgment could threaten once again to bring ruin to all of Tellius. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.9
Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance 28.

Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance

Platform: PC
November 6, 2007
Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance is the next chapter in the critically acclaimed Supreme Commander franchise. The game continues the epic story following the Infinite War, featuring an all-new single-player campaign, a new faction and a myriad of innovative multiplayer features. More than one hundred new units will give players access to cutting-edge strategic options, including fully realized navies, orbital weaponry and advanced counter intelligence technologies. [THQ]
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.9
Age of Mythology: The Titans 29.

Age of Mythology: The Titans

Platform: PC
September 30, 2003
Age of Mythology: The Titans Expansion adds a fourth mythology, the Atlanteans, to the existing Greek, Egyptian and Norse mythologies. A new single-player campaign will add yet another chapter to the franchise's expansive folklore along with the addition of new scenarios. Atlantean players will be able to call upon the might of the Titan gods (such as Atlas and Cronus) multiple times throughout the game, and may also upgrade human units to heroes. The expansion pack will introduce 12 new god powers, 15 new human units and 10 formidable myth units to the game. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.9
Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings 30.

Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings

Platform: DS
November 20, 2007
One year after the events of FINAL FANTASY XII, the young protagonist Vaan travels the skies of Ivalice with his trusted navigator Penelo at his side. Their treasure hunting adventures take them to the sky continent of Lemurés where they meet Llyud, a member of the aegyl race. These mysterious winged people have been living on the floating continent for centuries, but a disturbance has allowed treasure-seeking sky pirates to breach their once-hidden territory. It falls to Vaan and his band of young sky pirates to stand up against the trespassers, and defend this extraordinary world and its people.
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.9
Knights of Honor 31.

Knights of Honor

Platform: PC
June 6, 2005
For the first time Knights of Honor will bring you the excitement of a true Empire Conquering Simulation in Real-Time. A unique Knights-management system will offer you brand new possibilities to enhance your personal strategy. Never lose sight of your goal - to rule all of Europe.
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.9
Metal Fatigue 32.

Metal Fatigue

Platform: PC
July 31, 2000
Choose from three warring factions; the Milagro, Neuropa, and Rimtech are competing CorpoNations, each with its own technologies and research capabilities. Build bases, research new weaponry and unit types, and engage the enemy on three different levels simultaneously! [TalonSoft]
Metascore:
68
User Score:
8.9
Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth 33.

Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth

Platform: PlayStation 4
September 5, 2017
Forced to flee Yamato’s idyllic Imperial Capital, Haku and his friends now seek safety in the rural nation of Ennakamuy, only to find that nowhere is truly safe from the dark conspiracies they uncovered together.
Metascore:
75
User Score:
8.9
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception 34.

Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception

Platform: PlayStation Vita
May 23, 2017
Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception is a grand tale that will enchant the hearts and minds of players as it takes them on an incredible journey. With a beautiful visual novel story experience, intriguing characters, fast-paced SRPG combat, world-class soundtrack, and more, the game is the perfect escape for adventure gamers! Mask of Deception begins atop a snowy mountain where the protagonist awakens in an unfamiliar wilderness, surrounded by deadly creatures, with nothing but a hospital gown and a splitting headache. However, hes rescued by a beautiful girl named Kuon, who sports both adorable animal ears and a beastlike tail. Finding that the hapless man has no memory of anything, Kuon decides to take the amnesiac into her care, naming him Haku. As their journey takes them across the land, Haku will encounter colorful characters, build deep relationships, battle ruthless enemies, and find himself inexorably dragged into the political machinations of the mighty nation of Yamato.
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.9
Tinykin 35.

Tinykin

Platform: Switch
August 30, 2022
Milo arrives on Earth to find that he's way too small, everybody's gone and a day hasn't passed since 1991! Catch hundreds of mysterious tinykin and use their unique powers to create ladders, bridges, explosions and a lot more! Find a way home through a sprawling ant-sized metropolis, and unravel Earth's biggest mystery!
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.9
Tin Soldiers: Julius Caesar 36.

Tin Soldiers: Julius Caesar

Platform: PC
April 26, 2005
Tin Soldiers: Julius Caesar brings you back to the epic story of a leader the world hadn’t seen since the likes of Alexander the Great. Leading the forces of Caesar in his sweep of Gaul, you will force submission of the proud Gallic tribes and expand Roman control. Once you achieve the prestige of Caesar himself, you will take your forces across the Rubicon and face your nemesis Pompey in a climactic Civil War spanning the Roman territories. Do you have what it takes to match the achievements of Julius Caesar and name yourself dictator for life? [Matrix Games]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
8.9
Fire Emblem: Three Houses 37.

Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Platform: Switch
July 26, 2019
War is coming to the continent of Fódlan. Here, order is maintained by the Church of Seiros, which hosts the prestigious Officer's Academy within its headquarters. You are invited to teach one of its three mighty houses, each comprised of students brimming with personality and represented by a royal from one of three territories. As their professor, you must lead your students in their academic lives and in turn-based, tactical RPG battles wrought with strategic, new twists to overcome. Which house, and which path, will you choose?
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.8
Plants vs. Zombies 38.

Plants vs. Zombies

Platform: PC
May 5, 2009
Zombies are invading your home, and the only defense is your arsenal of plants! Armed with an alien nursery-worth of zombie-zapping plants like peashooters and cherry bombs, you'll need to think fast and plant faster to stop dozens of types of zombies dead in their tracks. Obstacles like a setting sun, creeping fog and a swimming pool add to the challenge, and with five game modes to dig into, the fun never dies! [Steam]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.8
Pikmin 3 39.

Pikmin 3

Platform: Wii U
August 4, 2013
Pikmin 3 is a reimagined, mass-action strategy title from the critically acclaimed Pikmin series. Players take control of 3 explorers and an array of cute Pikmin in a struggle for survival. By exploiting the unique abilities of these little Pikmin creatures, players solve puzzles, battle dangerous predators and forage for food needed to save the explorers' home planet.
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.8
Homeworld 40.

Homeworld

Platform: PC
August 31, 1999
Deported to a harsh desert world, exiles have struggled for three thousand years to regain the stars. Now it's up to you to guide them home through a brutal empire bent on annihilation. Homeworld boasts amazing ship graphics and gorgeous deep-space vistas, a unique command and navigation interface and white-knuckle real-time strategy. [Sierra]
Metascore:
93
User Score:
8.8
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Dark Crusade 41.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Dark Crusade

Platform: PC
October 9, 2006
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War: Dark Crusade is set in Games Workshop's world of Warhammer 40,000 - a dark, futuristic, fantasy universe where armies of technologically advanced warriors, fighting machines and hordes of implacable aliens wage constant war - and is traveled by millions worldwide. As a hybrid expansion, the game offers a complete standalone experience, allowing gamers to play as all seven races, including the all-new, mysterious Tau and the chilling Necron. Fans who own the entire Dawn of War series can look forward to new units across each of the five original races, expansive bonus content and the ability to play as any of the seven races in multiplayer. [THQ]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.8
Stronghold: Crusader 42.

Stronghold: Crusader

Platform: PC
September 25, 2002
Journey to distant lands renowned for brave warriors and fearsome weaponry. This highly anticipated successor to the best-selling Stronghold combines the finest aspects from a City Builder and a Real-Time Strategy game. Lead a determined group of crusaders, forged by centuries of barbaric conflicts, or wage war against a powerful foreign invader amidst the haze of the desert heat. Within impenetrable walls beats the heart of a thriving society full of Fletchers, Brewers, and Armourers, while outside stalk enemy Assassins, mighty War Engines, and the constant threat of fire! As European nobles or Arabian warriors, conquer this unforgiving wasteland, defend desert fortresses, and lay siege to fearless enemies during the legendary Crusades of the 11th and 12th centuries! [God Games]
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.8
Stronghold 43.

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
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition 44.

Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

Platform: PC
November 14, 2019
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition celebrates the 20th anniversary of one of the most popular strategy games ever with stunning 4K Ultra HD graphics, a new and fully remastered soundtrack, and brand-new content, “The Last Khans” with 3 new campaigns and 4 new civilizations.
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.8
Command & Conquer: Generals - Zero Hour 45.

Command & Conquer: Generals - Zero Hour

Platform: PC
September 22, 2003
Prepare to unleash the absolute latest in modern weapons technology against the world?s most powerful Generals in Command & Conquer Generals Zero Hour. In the next era of military strategy and might, you?ll need to command a more technologically advanced arsenal to defeat new, more powerful enemies. The first expansion pack for the critically acclaimed Command & Conquer Generals challenges players to square off against the world?s most elite commanders for battlefield domination. Even the most experienced C&C Generals veteran must learn new strategies and tactics to take full advantage of -- and learn to defend against -- the next generation of the world?s most lethal weapons. With new units, structures, and upgrades, as well as the all-new Generals Challenge Mode, Zero Hour delivers all the firepower you?ll need in your quest to become the ultimate modern warfare General. [Electronic Arts]
Metascore:
83
User Score:
8.8
Commandos 2: Men of Courage 46.

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
Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift 47.

Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift

Platform: DS
June 24, 2008
School is out for the summer, but mischievous Luso Clemens must first face detention to make up for his misbehavior. Alone in the library, he stumbles upon an ancient book with magical powers that summons him to the mystical land of Ivalice. Warped into the middle of a battlefield, Luso joins Cid and his clan to set off on an adventurous journey looking for a way home. Explore the fantastic world of Ivalice and join forces with famous heroes from FINAL FANTASY XII – Vaan, Penelo and Al-Cid. All-new content and enhancements, including polished game mechanics, new jobs, new classes, and a new clan system that enrich the Ivalice experience for fans and newcomers alike. The North American release will allow players to command characters in battle and navigate through menus all with a tap of the stylus Witness vibrant and colorful visuals in dual-screen presentation, made possible by Nintendo DS. Increased replay value with up to 400 available quests, allowing players to immerse themselves in a multi-faceted storyline. [Square Enix]
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.8
Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms 48.

Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms

Platform: PC
August 28, 2007
Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms is the official expansion to Medieval II: Total War, presenting players with all-new territories to explore, troops to command, and enemies to conquer. Kingdoms features four new entire campaigns centered on expanded maps of the British Isles, Teutonic Northern Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. In Medieval II, players were only given a glimpse of South America, but in Kingdoms, vast tracts of land in both North and South America have been opened up for players to conquer. All-new factions from the New World are also now fully playable, including the Aztecs, Apaches, and Mayans. Along with the new maps in the Britannia, Teutonic, Crusades, and New World Campaigns, there are 13 new factions to play, over 110 units to control, and 50 building types, adding up to 80 hours of new gameplay. Kingdoms also offers new multiplayer maps and hotseat multiplayer, a first for the Total War series, allowing players to play one-versus-one campaign games on the same computer. [Sega]
Metascore:
85
User Score:
8.8
Total Annihilation 49.

Total Annihilation

Platform: PC
September 27, 1997
Long ago, the galaxy had known peace. Paradise was ruled with the hand of science, and the hand was that of the galactic governing body known as the Core. Ironically, it was the Core's ultimate victory, the victory over death itself, that brought about the downfall of its paradise and started the war that would decimate a million worlds. The immortality process, known as "patterning," involved the electronic duplication of brain matrices, allowing the transfer of consciousness into durable machines. Effectively it meant immortality, and the Core decreed the process mandatory for all citizens in order to ensure their safety. However, there were many citizens unwilling to toss aside their bodies so casually, many indeed who regarded patterning as an atrocity. They fled to the outer edges of the galaxy, forming a resistance movement that became known as the Arm. War began, though it was never officially declared by either side. The Arm developed high-powered combat suits for its armies, while the Core transferred the minds of its soldiers directly into similarly deadly machines. The Core duplicated its finest warriors thousands of times over. The Arm countered with a massive cloning program. The war raged on for more than 4,000 years, consuming the resources of an entire galaxy and leaving it a scorched wasteland. [Cavedog Entertainment]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.8
Advance Wars: Dual Strike 50.

Advance Wars: Dual Strike

Platform: DS
August 22, 2005
Players lead their new Commanding Officers to fend off the Black Hole Army’s latest invasion. With massive battles that sweep across both of the DS screens, Advance Wars: Dual Strike will change the face of war forever. Use the top screen for quick-reference battle intel, or take control in battles that rage across both screens. Command a fleet of fighters high in the skies while troops clash with the enemy on the ground far below. New COs, new Tag-Team battles: Choose from new Commanding Officers, and combine their powers for incredible attacks that can turn the tide of battles. Real-time Combat mode: For a battle with a twist, players lead soldiers into a fast-paced, action-oriented battle against a storm of enemies. Easy-to-use map editor: Just grab a stylus and draw maps right on the touch screen, then send the maps to friends wirelessly. [Nintendo]
Metascore:
90
User Score:
8.8
Desperados: Wanted Dead or Alive 51.

Desperados: Wanted Dead or Alive

Platform: PC
July 23, 2001
Lead Cooper and his gang through 25 levels of this character-based real-time strategy game in which you're hired to find the banditos responsible for a train robbery in the old American frontier.
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.8
Advance Wars 52.

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
Dawn of Discovery 53.

Dawn of Discovery

Platform: PC
June 17, 2009
(Also known as "Anno 1404: Dawn of Discovery") Dawn of Discovery takes place in the year 1404, when King George's land is suffering from severe droughts and brutal famine. Aware of his people's distress, the king calls on his two sons, William and Edward, to acquire new territories in order to produce enough goods to satisfy the needs of his empire’s inhabitants. Whereas Edward suggests aggressive means to collect the precious resources, his brother William offers a peaceful solution, proposing to explore new and unsettled lands in the south of the kingdom. With his Father’s blessing, William heads south to the mysterious Orient and returns with valuable new technologies such as the water pump that allows dry lands to be cultivated in order to produce enough food for the people. But there are still many unmet needs within the king's empire, and players are tasked with the mission of fulfilling those needs while both expanding and sustaining the vast society. Build and sustain your own expansive empire. Explore the beautifully detailed world and discover new places to create your civilization. Set up trade posts in the spice mines of the Orient and explore new trade routes to keep your nation growing. Learn from other nearby cultures to expand your horizons and master the challenges of establishing a prosperous society. [Ubisoft]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.8
Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town 54.

Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town

Platform: Game Boy Advance
November 17, 2003
It's up to you to successfully build and maintain a farm while befriending the people of the town. In Harvest: Moon: Friends of Mineral Town, you can do anything from planting vegetables and raising different animals to marrying the woman of your dreams and starting a family. The game lets you choose which events, minigames, and adventures to complete. Through the Game Boy Advance link cable, you can connect this game with Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life to unlock new events and surprises.
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.8
Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising 55.

Advance Wars 2: Black Hole Rising

Platform: Game Boy Advance
June 24, 2003
Just when you thought you'd seen the last of them, the Black Hole Army is storming back in this sequel to the award-winning Game Boy Advance strategy game. With new COs under his command, Sturm is leading a new invasion force, and it'll take advance strategy to stop him!
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.8
Age of Wonders: Shadow Magic 56.

Age of Wonders: Shadow Magic

Platform: PC
July 25, 2003
Age of Wonders: Shadow Magic takes the acclaimed fantasy strategy series to new heights. This new stand-alone game enhances the series' praised fusion of empire building, role-playing and tactical combat with the eerie Shadow World and battle with races never before seen, across new and diverse landscapes. Combined with the option of creating a totally unique environment with the map editor and rewriting the history of this world through the enhanced campaign editor, you are ensured a constant stream of completely new game experiences. [Gathering of Developers]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.8
Vainglory 57.

Vainglory

Platform: iOS
November 16, 2014
Outplay real opponents in this deep, uncompromising real-time MOBA.
Metascore:
84
User Score:
8.8
Rise of Nations: Thrones & Patriots 58.

Rise of Nations: Thrones & Patriots

Platform: PC
April 27, 2004
Developed by Brian Reynolds and Big Huge Games, Throne and Patriots, the expansion pack to the critically acclaimed, best-selling real-time strategy (RTS) game Rise of Nations, adds a multitude of new features to Rise of Nations including; six new nations, a wide variety of new single player campaigns, more than 20 new units, new wonders and an innovative new Government feature. With the new Government feature, any nation, old or new, can choose exactly how to be governed, which has far-reaching effects on how units perform in various situations. All-new single player campaigns will allow gamers to control the course of history during historical events that changed the world. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
8.8
Nexus: The Jupiter Incident 59.

Nexus: The Jupiter Incident

Platform: PC
February 24, 2005
Immerse yourself in Nexus - The Jupiter Incident, a real-time mission-based tactical space game ("what we call a TFS: a Tactical Fleet Simulator") featuring spectacular real time battles and breathtaking motion picture quality. Focus on tactics and action as you control up to a dozen battleships encountering aliens, unknown solar systems and astrophysical phenomena in your struggle to save Earth.At the dawn of the 22nd century the conquest of space and the colonization of the solar system is being monopolized by several huge and ambitious megacorporations. Although extremely delicate and vulnerable, a balance is maintained by these companies. It has now been 60 years since the terrible catastrophe that befell Noah's Ark, the first colony ship of mankind. At the very edge of the solar system the companies make a discovery which will shift the technological advantage and upset the balance. And so a new conflict is born: "The Jupiter Incident". You are Marcus Cromwell, a young but already famous captain. With your legendary spaceship Stiletto you find yourself in the middle of the conflict. [HD Interactive]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.8
Homeworld: Cataclysm 60.

Homeworld: Cataclysm

Platform: PC
September 7, 2000
Homeworld: Cataclysm boasts 18 all-new ships, 25 new technologies, 17 single-player missions, and fantastic multiplay, while improving on the interface and technology that earned Homeworld 1999's highest accolades. [Sierra Studios]
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.8
Myth II: Soulblighter 61.

Myth II: Soulblighter

Platform: PC
November 30, 1998
Building on the excellent plot and gameplay featured in Myth: The Fallen Lords, Myth II: Soulblighter also upped the ante by incorporating destructible environments as well as new game modes. The near-infinite gameplay permutations that ensued, ensured that Myth fans had lots of new toys to play with in the game world. Myth II also enjoyed a comprehensive update in the shape of the the Myth II expansion pack: Chimera. [Bungie Studios]
Metascore:
88
User Score:
8.8
Original War 62.

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
Patrician III: Rise of the Hanse 63.

Patrician III: Rise of the Hanse

Platform: PC
October 31, 2003
The best selling olde-worlde real-time city-building simulation is back! Build cities, manage economies and battle pirates in the only game of its kind based in the Middle Ages. Grow your small towne into a major trading center wielding tremendous economic power. [Encore Software]
Metascore:
75
User Score:
8.8
Parkitect 64.

Parkitect

Platform: PC
November 29, 2018
Parkitect is a business simulation game that charges you with the construction and management of theme parks.
Metascore:
83
User Score:
8.8
Ring of Red 65.

Ring of Red

Platform: PlayStation 2
March 12, 2001
A highly classified prototype mech was stolen from the allied forces in southern Japan and it's up to you to get it back! Take control of monstrous mechs and brave soldiers. Immerse yourself in detailed 3D battle sequences with an exciting style of gameplay that mixes in-depth strategy and real-time action as you lead the allies to victory.
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.8
Sins of a Solar Empire: Diplomacy 66.

Sins of a Solar Empire: Diplomacy

Platform: PC
February 9, 2010
Sins of a Solar Empire: Diplomacy is the second expansion pack for Sins of a Solar Empire. Combined with the original and the first expansion pack (Entrenchment) you get Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity. The first expansion pack added a new defense-based technology tree and starbases, features that had been requested by players to enhance the tactical options for players. Diplomacy is a different animal all together. It is much more subtle. There are no big new structures in it. Instead, it focuses on allowing players to pull strings from behind the scenes. [Stardock]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.8
Patrician IV: Rise of a Dynasty 67.

Patrician IV: Rise of a Dynasty

Platform: PC
March 31, 2011
Rise of a Dynasty is the expansion for Patrician IV.
Metascore:
67
User Score:
8.8
Full Spectrum Warrior: Ten Hammers 68.

Full Spectrum Warrior: Ten Hammers

Platform: PlayStation 2
March 28, 2006
As squad leader, players coordinate the actions of multiple infantry fire teams, leading them through a variety of hostile environments. An intuitive control scheme allows direction of squads in real-time as players outthink, outmaneuver and outgun enemies through more than 12 levels of intense warfare. Players will utilize authentic battlefield tactics as they confront the enemy with a deadly arsenal of weapons, the latest military equipment, and new Player-controlled mechanized units. With an enhanced multiplayer mode, players can go online and battle friends through a variety of new head-to-head and co-op objective-based missions. [THQ]
Metascore:
71
User Score:
8.8
Dreamlords 69.

Dreamlords

Platform: PC
February 15, 2007
Dreamlords offers strategic depth by providing both long term empire building with 3D RTS action in a massively multiplayer world. Dreamlords the game is made up by one game client and a web interface. The empire building is done in the web interface and fighting is done in the game client. A dreamlord is a mystical entity that has risen to answer the desperate calling of the people. Now you have to lead them to a great future, one step at a time. Start from nothing and build a prosperous empire by building cities and managing production and population. Create a respectable army that can both protect the people and conquer enemies. Equip your army with powerful gear and abilities tailored to suite your own personal strategy. Conquer the political scene and lead your allies in the quest to be the ultimate winners of the era. Dreamlords is a strategic challenge covering empire-building, resource management, stock market trading, alliance teamwork. Combined with the hundreds of different PvE encounters, storyline quests and the possibility to battle with other players, this makes Dreamlords a unique gaming experience. In Dreamlords all your decisions make a difference that influences your power and success in the shattered world. Do you have what it takes to become the ultimate Dreamlord, a worthy leader of your people and the conqueror of Elysion? [Lockpick Entertainment]
Metascore:
46
User Score:
8.8
Cities: Skylines 70.

Cities: Skylines

Platform: PC
March 10, 2015
Developed by Colossal Order, Cities: Skylines offers sprawling landscapes and maps with endless sandbox gameplay and new ways to expand your city. Key to progression is the ability to influence your city’s policy by incorporating taxation into districts. All this plus the ability to mod the game to suit your play style.
Metascore:
85
User Score:
8.7
Company of Heroes 71.

Company of Heroes

Platform: PC
September 13, 2006
A real-time strategy game set in World War II, Company of Heroes brings to life, in full cinematic detail, the greatest war mankind has ever known. Company of Heroes is built on Relic's next-generation Essence Engine and also utilizes the Havok Physics engine, delivering cinematic visual detail in a world completely driven by realistic physics. Gamers will experience the journey of the brave men of Able Company in a deep single-player campaign that begins with the invasion of Normandy through their fight across Europe, all set against the most dynamic battlefield ever seen in a game. Company of Heroes' completely destructable environment means no two battles ever play out in the same way. Advanced squad AI delivers startling new realism and responsiveness, bringing soldiers to life as they interact with the environment and execute advanced squad tactics to eliminate the opposition forces. [THQ]
Metascore:
93
User Score:
8.7
Europa Universalis IV 72.

Europa Universalis IV

Platform: PC
August 13, 2013
Europa Universalis IV explores the world history in an experience crafted by Paradox Development Studio, the masters of Grand Strategy. The experiences of true exploration, trade, warfare and diplomacy will be brought to life in this epic title rife with rich strategic and tactical depth.
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.7
Crusader Kings II 73.

Crusader Kings II

Platform: PC
February 14, 2012
In Crusader Kings II, you will get to control one of the great Christian dynasties of the West, attempt to conquer all of Europe, and liberate the Holy Land.
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.7
Sid Meier's Civilization II 74.

Sid Meier's Civilization II

Platform: PC
February 29, 1996
An empire-building turn-based strategy game. The game starts at the Old Stone Age in 4000 BC. Your tribe begins with a Settlers unit and has no knowledge about the surrounding area. As you found new cities and explore the surroundings, you may find hostile barbarians, villages, and other competing cultures. [Civ Fantatics' Center]
Metascore:
94
User Score:
8.7
Valkyria Chronicles 75.

Valkyria Chronicles

Platform: PlayStation 3
November 4, 2008
Valkyria Chronicles is set in a fictitious continent reminiscent of 1930s Europe, divided in two and ruled by the Empire and the Federation. The Empire has set its sights on invading a small neutral country called Gallia, which is situated in the middle of the two great empires. The game follows a hero named Welkin and his fellow soldiers of the Federation's 7th Platoon that are fighting against the Empire, who are intent on unifying the continent under its power. The Federation discovers that the Empire possesses a secret weapon, known as the "Valkyria" - an ancient race with special powers thought to exist only in legends. With this new discovery, the fate of the Federation's ability to win the war and a hope for a better future hangs in the balance. [Sega]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.7
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 76.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War

Platform: PC
September 20, 2004
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War is a science fiction real-time strategy (RTS) game set in the violent, post-apocalyptic universe of the 41st Millennium. Utilizing the exceptional game design skills of Relic Entertainment, Dawn of War provides an immersive entertainment experience of epic proportions. Command hardened troops, deadly vehicles and high tech weaponry with one goal in mind, the complete extermination of the opposition. Whether you lead Humanity's finest - the Space Marines, the diabolic and villainous traitors of man - the Chaos Space Marines, the brutal and savage beasts - the Orks, or the psychic and technologically advanced alien warriors - the Eldar, you control the action and the fate of your race! [THQ]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.7
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 77.

Command & Conquer: Red Alert

Platform: PC
November 22, 1996
Surrender is not an option. Dark experiments have permanently altered time. Or have they? Now, Soviet tanks crush city after city while Allied cruisers shell bases. Spies lurk, land mines wait, and strange new technologies aid both sides in their struggle for ultimate control.Command & Conquer: Red Alert gives you the opportunity to be more devious, cunning and ruthless than ever before. Easy to play and highly addictive, Red Alert puts the fate of the world in your hands! [Westwood]
Metascore:
90
User Score:
8.7
Rise of Nations 78.

Rise of Nations

Platform: PC
May 20, 2003
Dominate 6,000 years of history from the Ancient Age to the Information Age. Which forces will you deploy to lead your nation to global prominence? Trade, espionage, diplomacy?war? Whichever path you choose, you?ll experience the pulse pounding thrill and speed of real-time gaming combined with the epic scope and depth of turn-based strategy games ? brought together for the first time ever in Rise of Nations. Rise of Nations is a new historical real time strategy game from Big Huge Games' Brian Reynolds, designer of PC game classics such as "Civilization 2" and "Alpha Centauri." In Rise of Nations, you'll create new cities, improve city infrastructures and expand national borders. Conquer foes through military might using everything from sling-shots to cannons to stealth bombers to nuclear weapons; corner the market on key commodities and consolidate power under your rule; wheel and deal across time with history's eminent cultures. [Microsoft]
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.7
King's Bounty: The Legend 79.

King's Bounty: The Legend

Platform: PC
September 23, 2008
King’s Bounty: The Legend is an adventure RPG with tactical turn-based battles unfolding in a fairytale fantasy world of fearless knights, evil mages, wise kings and beautiful princesses. The player leads their character through the game world; exploring it; commanding armies in battle; and completing required and bonus quests. The game falls into two separate modes: Adventure Mode and Combat Mode. In adventure mode, the player controls the character in real-time, taking him through the adventure map seeking treasure, and completing quests. In combat mode, the player takes on the role of war chief, leading their troops through battle in a chess-like format. [Atari]
Metascore:
79
User Score:
8.7
King's Bounty: Armored Princess 80.

King's Bounty: Armored Princess

Platform: PC
November 19, 2009
King's Bounty: Armored Princess is a sequel to the critically acclaimed King's Bounty: The Legend. Players take on the role of Princess Amelie who travels around the world of Teana and searches for the renowned knight, and her mentor, Bill Gilbert. This new world of King's Bounty: Armored Princess is full of mysteries and dangers. The new character, the Princess, will encounter horrible creatures, huge monstrous bosses and a new race, the bloodthirsty Lizards. As in the multi-award winning game on which this sequel is based, the player has many options to resist these new enemies. Various new skills and characteristics of Amelie as well as her chance to fly will help her overcome the hordes attacking the kingdom. The Princess is also accompanied by a Domestic Dragon, at the very beginning small and amusing, but its abilities develop steadily until it becomes an incredible ally. He will do his best to protect the Princess during the battles, starting with easy blows and treasure hunting and finishing with battle rage and volcano summoning. [1C Company]
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.7
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri 81.

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri

Platform: PC
February 12, 1999
Legendary designer Sid Meier presents the next evolution in strategy games, with the most addictive, compelling gameplay yet. Explore the alien planet that is your new home and uncover its myriad mysteries. Discover over 75 extraordinary technologies. Build over 60 base upgrades and large-scale secret projects for your empire. Conquer your enemies with a war machine that you design from over 32,000 possible unit types. [Firaxis]
Metascore:
92
User Score:
8.7
Pikmin 82.

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
RollerCoaster Tycoon: Loopy Landscapes 83.

RollerCoaster Tycoon: Loopy Landscapes

Platform: PC
September 30, 2000
From Rocket Ships and Medieval Castles to Winter Wonderlands and new environments, you now have a complete working palette to create your next thrill-a-minute masterpiece. Build on new landscapes, provide more shops and stalls or take on one of 30 new scenarios filled with new exciting challenges. This expansion two pack also includes Corkscrew Follies. NOTE: This is an add-on pack and requires a copy of the main RollerCoaster Tycoon game to play. [Hasbro Interactive]
Metascore:
80
User Score:
8.7
Disciples II: Dark Prophecy 84.

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
RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 85.

RollerCoaster Tycoon 2

Platform: PC
October 15, 2002
Includes 25 Six Flags roller coasters from 5 different locations, including Six Flags Magic Mountain and Six Flags Great Adventure. Create your own incredible roller coasters using the all-new Roller Coaster Designer. Trade creations and challenge other RollerCoaster Tycoons worldwide on rollercoastertycoon.com. Push the limits with new roller coaster types, including Giga Coaster, Spinning Wild Mouse, Inverted Impulse Coaster and more. Customize your park with new and unique themes, including Giant Garden, Wild West, Pirates and more! [Infogrames]
Metascore:
74
User Score:
8.7
Sacrifice (2000) 86.

Sacrifice (2000)

Platform: PC
November 5, 2000
Sacrifice provides a truly fresh approach in the 3-D RTS genre, allowing players to act as both commander and combatant over huge, real-time, generated landscapes in single or multiplayer modes. Wizards will not be disappointed as Sacrifice serves up over 50 spells and creatures. [Interplay]
Metascore:
89
User Score:
8.7
Jeanne d'Arc 87.

Jeanne d'Arc

Platform: PSP
August 21, 2007
The Jeanne d'Arc story begins far in the past, when a great war was waged by mankind against demonic armies attempting to invade the human world. During that time, five brave heroes created armlets to restrain the demon gods. In a quest to turn back the rueful army, a young crusader named Jeanne is commanded by mysterious voices to use the power of the magical armlet to seal away the demon king and recover her homeland once and for all. Set among sprawling fields, battle-torn villages, and intricate dungeons, Jeanne d'Arc unfolds through more than 40 expansive and highly detailed environments, where players will engage in the pursuit of France's resurgence. Players control up to 14 characters throughout the journey, including humans and beasts, as they battle a variety of enemies in the quest to turn back the English domination. Jeanne d'Arc delivers a strategic, turn-based battle system where players engage in unique team attacks and defensive schemes, using multiple characters' skills in combination to create devastating strikes. Further adding to the depth of play, each character has access to one of eight weapon types that are also upgradeable as players' progress through the game. Additionally, players can customize their characters with more than 150 different skills and abilities throughout the game. [SCEA]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.7
Cossacks: Back to War 88.

Cossacks: Back to War

Platform: PC
November 20, 2002
More nations, more battles, more fun! Fight your way across the battlefields of Europe, seek allies and vanquish the enemy. The second add-on to "Cossacks: European Wars" sends you to battle alongside or against Swiss units armed to the teeth and powerful Hungarians. [CDV]
Metascore:
60
User Score:
8.7
Harvest Moon: Back To Nature 89.

Harvest Moon: Back To Nature

Platform: PlayStation
November 22, 2000
As a child you visited your Grandfather's ranch when vaction plans fell through. Return to the farm that holds fond childhood memories and rejuvenate it's long neglected fields. Tend to your livestock and interact with over 50 characters. As you struggle to make the farm something your grandfather would be proud of, one nagging question remains: What ever happend to the little girl that you knew a decade ago?
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.7
Ogre Battle 64 90.

Ogre Battle 64

Platform: Nintendo 64
October 7, 2000
The Holy Lodis Empire is planning the domination of the entire continent of Zeteginia! It is up to you to raise the flag of revolution and rid the land of the Lodis threat. Make decisions in real-time and take control of numerous characters to prove victorious on the battlefield and regain freedom for all people!
Metascore:
82
User Score:
8.7
Zeus: Master of Olympus 91.

Zeus: Master of Olympus

Platform: PC
October 22, 2000
Recreate your favorite legends from Greek mythology as you build and rule beautiful city-states. Help Hercules defeat the Hydra, Odysseus win the Trojan War, or Jason retrieve the Golden Fleece. You'll make friends in high places, get involved in the affairs of immortals, and even meet Zeus himself. [Sierra Studios]
Metascore:
87
User Score:
8.7
Victoria II: Heart of Darkness 92.

Victoria II: Heart of Darkness

Platform: PC
April 16, 2013
Victoria II: Heart of Darkness, the second expansion for the grand strategy/ political simulator focuses on the Scramble for Africa as you compete with other colonial powers and experience international crises which require Great Power mediation if the world is to avoid war. Become a truly great power by the dawn of the 20th century in Victoria II, an experience crafted by Paradox Development Studio, the masters of Grand Strategy.
Metascore:
81
User Score:
8.7
Harvest Moon 64 93.

Harvest Moon 64

Platform: Nintendo 64
November 30, 1999
In Harvest Moon 64, you'll work hard to make a life for yourself on the run-down farm that you've inherited from your dearly departed grandfather. It will take careful planning and a lot of help from your neighbors to ride out the seasons and succeed as a gentleman farmer. Harvest Moon 64 has all the charm of the original Super Nintendo classic, plus many new surprises.
Metascore:
78
User Score:
8.7
New Play Control! Pikmin 2 94.

New Play Control! Pikmin 2

Platform: Wii
June 10, 2012
Captain Olimar has returned to the planet where the Pikmin live, and he's all business this time. The company he works for is going bankrupt, so to save it, Olimar must salvage the treasure buried all over the planet. Of course, he'll need the help of the Pikmin to do that--he can't do anything by himself. Control one of two main characters--Olimar or his assistant--as you command your Pikmin to defeat enemies, propagate more Pikmin, collect precious doodads, and solve puzzles. With unlimited time, new colors of Pikmin, and two-player cooperative play, Pikmin 2 improves on the original in many ways.
Metascore:
83
User Score:
8.7
Victoria: An Empire Under the Sun 95.

Victoria: An Empire Under the Sun

Platform: PC
November 18, 2003
Based on the award-winning Europa Universalis engine, Victoria: Empire Under the Sun lets players control their nation from the early 19th century to the dawn of the 20th century, trying to progress into an industrialized Great Power by building up their Military Might, Industrialization Power, and finally National Prestige. Gameplay focuses on Diplomacy, Warfare, Economy & Industrialization, Colonization, Technological Development and Political Simulation. [Strategy First]
Metascore:
58
User Score:
8.7
Europa Universalis III: Heir to the Throne 96.

Europa Universalis III: Heir to the Throne

Platform: PC
December 15, 2009
The historical strategy game features new content and features across the board including: Brand new Casus Belli system, where wars have specific goals from start to finish. Monarchs now belong to dynasties, with new influence on the diplomatic model. Increased Holy Roman Empire and Papacy options for more powerful ruling. New diplomatic options for Merchant Republics. Enhanced "Cultural Tradition" and recruitment of specific advisor types. [Paradox Interactive]
Metascore:
86
User Score:
8.7
Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis 97.

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
Lords of the Realm II 98.

Lords of the Realm II

Platform: PC
October 31, 1996
Enter thirteenth century England! Lords of the Realm II immerses you in this harsh world where life is held cheap and conflict is epic. In this world reality is harsh, peace rare and combat brutal! Rise to become king ? brutally defeating your enemies, conquering neighboring realms and building your empire on their remains. Building on the success of Lords of the Realm, Impressions brings you more of what you demanded: multiplayer experience, fully animated real time battles and incredible replayability. [Sierra]
Metascore:
77
User Score:
8.7
Vanguard Bandits 99.

Vanguard Bandits

Platform: PlayStation
April 29, 2000
In a world where technology and mythology are one, a young rebel and his ragtag crew are unwittingly drawn into a holy war being waged by the bloodthirsty General Faulkner and his mercenary forces. Guide the charasmatic Bastion as he realizes his destiny to lead the rebellion against the Junaris Kingdom, and to save the people of his world from an eternity of oppression. Lead powerful squadrons of robotic warriors into battle and take complete command of their actions. Smite your foes with cleaving swords, piercing spears, and sizzling magic spells. Use the terrain to your advantage and maneuver your forces into superior combat positions. Witness the results of your tactical decisions in glorious 3D combat sequences.
Metascore:
62
User Score:
8.7
Harvest Moon: Animal Parade 100.

Harvest Moon: Animal Parade

Platform: Wii
November 12, 2009
In Harvest Moon: Animal Parade, the divine tree which once stood in the middle of the Harvest Goddess' pond is weakening, the creatures are beginning to leave the land, and the five bells have lost their power. The Harvest Goddess believes that only the strength of the Harvest King can help revive the earth and bring the tree back to life. It's up to the player to help the Harvest Sprites ring the five mystical bells, summon the Harvest King, and revive the Harvest Goddess' tree and the land. Players find plenty of activities in Harvest Moon: Animal Parade, including cultivating crops and caring for wild and exotic animals such as penguins, pandas, and monkeys. Players can take their exotic animals out for walks, teach them tricks, and even ride some of them around town! When the circus rolls into town, players also need to help the ringmaster find the escaped animals. Befriend the lion, giraffe, and hippopotamus to save the show! The game also lets players take and share pictures over WiiConnect24. Players can take pictures of their farm, their family, or their village and show them off online. [Natsume]
Metascore:
76
User Score:
8.7
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