There's no arguing that StarCraft has redefined the real-time strategy gaming genre with its perfect blend of compelling narrative, complex gameplay systems, and a stunning depiction of a spacefaring future. However, if you are a fan of real-time strategy games and are looking for something apart from StarCraft to keep you engaged, this article is for you. We've listed the top five alternative games to StarCraft that you need to try. Each game has been picked and detailed highlighting its gameplay, story, and setting. These games, like StarCraft, offer a fantastic mix of strategy, engaging campaigns, and multiplayer modes that guarantee hours of thrilling gameplay.
1. Command & Conquer: Tiberium Series
Introduction to Command & Conquer: Tiberium Series
As a classic within the RTS genre, Command & Conquer: Tiberium Series brings a unique blend of military and science fiction into its gameplay.
Command & Conquer: Gameplay, Story, Setting
With a strong emphasis on base building and resource management, Command & Conquer requires players to extract a powerful and highly sought-after resource, Tiberium, to build and support their fighting forces. The storyline is entrenched in a global conflict between the Global Defense Initiative and the Brotherhood of Nod, two factions in constant strife over control of Tiberium. The setting for the game is a dystopian future Earth, devastated by the effects of Tiberium. The series spans several installments, adding new factions, plot twists, and gameplay elements that all unquestionably make for an immersive gaming experience.
2. Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings
Introduction to Age of Empires II
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings is an evergreen favorite amongst RTS enthusiasts, set in the Middle Ages and featuring thirteen different civilizations from that era.
Age of Empires II: Gameplay, Story, Setting
The game focuses on building towns, gathering resources, and creating armies to defeat opponents. While StarCraft is set in outer space, Age of Empires II takes players back in time, making it a great option for history buffs. Players traverse through five historically-based campaigns, guiding legendary heroes such as Joan of Arc and Genghis Khan through their respective tales. The game offers dynamic gameplay with its variety of civilizations, each with unique strengths and weaknesses.
3. Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Introduction to Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Coming from the same creators of StarCraft, Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos offers an engaging fantasy-themed RTS experience.
Warcraft III: Gameplay, Story, Setting
Warcraft III incorporates role-playing game elements with the RTS genre, as players not only command armies but also control hero characters with unique abilities. The storyline is set in Azeroth and tells the tale of the Burning Legion's attempt to destroy the world, with various factions fighting against this common threat. The proprietary world editor gives players the opportunity to create their custom game modes, maps, and even their campaigns, leading to the birth of the popular game mode Defense of the Ancients and, later, DOTA 2.
4. Homeworld Remastered Collection
Introduction to Homeworld Remastered Collection
For StarCraft fans who love the spectacle of operatic space battles, Homeworld Remastered Collection is among the top candidates to explore.
Homeworld Remastered Collection: Gameplay, Story, Setting
Homeworld Remastered Collection revitalizes the classic space RTS series with updated graphics and interface. The gameplay is unique with its true 3D space battles, requiring players to consider tactics and strategy in all three dimensions. The narrative threads a touching tale of a displaced civilization seeking its ancestral home, set against the backdrop of sprawling cosmic vistas and celestial bodies. The series includes two main games, which are replete with detailed spaceship designs, strategic depth, and atmospheric music scores.
5. Total War: Warhammer II
Introduction to Total War: Warhammer II
If a blend of fantasy and colossal battles is what you crave, then Total War: Warhammer II will be right up your alley.
Total War: Warhammer II: Gameplay, Story, Setting
The Total War: Warhammer II game delivers a unique strategy game, elevating the genre by introducing massive real-time battles with turn-based campaigns. Players have the opportunity to control the most fantastical creatures and heroes from the Warhammer universe. The game takes place across the continents of Lustria, Ulthuan, Naggaroth, and the Southlands where four factions compete in a race to control the Great Vortex. The narrative is rich, and each campaign offers a different twist on the central conflict, ensuring delectable replayability.
In conclusion, while StarCraft has propelled the RTS genre to new heights, the alternatives listed in this article offer unique, engaging, and rewarding experiences on par with StarCraft. Give them a try, diversify your gaming portfolio and discover a whole new world of real-time strategy games.