Strategy in space and on planets. Space strategies review and description - strategies about space
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A radically updated version of the strategy, famous for its beautifully crafted story campaign. Thousands of ships sailing the expanses of colorful space will impress anyone.
Battles take place in a tactical mode, but are not without tension. You can command many types of starships, including giant battleships.
The collection includes both the original Homeworld and its sequel. Both look great on modern computers.
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Humanity left Earth and went to establish a colony there. You have to manage it.
You'll start with a small dome in the Martian desert, but over time you'll be able to create a noisy and truly large city future. The main thing is to monitor oxygen and energy, otherwise people will very soon begin to die like flies.
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The station itself is also well designed, so looking into its various corners, taking small steps closer to solving the mystery, is a real pleasure.
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In this space simulator, you have a huge galaxy with 400 billion star systems at your disposal. You will start your journey on an unremarkable ship and you will have to decide what to do.
Become a fearless, cunning trader or a curious explorer. Take part in hot battles or be a real pacifist. One of the main features of the project is the ability to play the way you like.
By the way, to control spaceships, be it a nimble fighter or a heavy-duty cargo tractor, Elite Dangerous incredibly nice.
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A massively multiplayer RPG in which players control every element of the vast cosmos. This is a truly living universe, with thousands of inhabitants fighting, trading, extracting resources and simply enjoying the breathtaking landscapes.
Break out of the relatively safe launch system - and you will find yourself in a real space Wild West, where espionage, piracy and fraud flourish. And here they pass every now and then large-scale battles, with thousands of real dollars at stake.
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A space action roguelike where when you die, your hard earned gains are yours to keep. You can spend them on upgrades, so you become stronger with each flight.
The fact that abilities accumulate allows one to climb deeper and deeper into the abyss of space. The enemies become more dangerous, but even if you die, it is not disappointing. You just start again, wondering how far you can fly this time.
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This online shooter with RPG elements boasts some of the most beautiful alien landscapes in gaming. It’s a pleasure to go through exciting and action-packed missions alone or with friends in any location, be it the ruins of Earth, the red jungle of the planet Nessus or the volcanoes of Io.
There you can fight with other players if you get tired of killing enemies controlled by artificial intelligence.
12. No Man's Sky
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The theme of space attracts many. And gamers are no exception. Therefore, the space strategy genre is wildly popular. Indeed, games of this kind have an attractive plot, limitless expanses of space, the ability to choose a race, and much more.
1. Star Conflict
- Release date: 2013
- Genre: Massively multiplayer online, action
- Developer: Star Gem Inc.
Team space strategy encourages gamers to stick together. There is no other way to survive. The game is built on team interaction. There is a difficult combat system here, players will have to race at crazy speed and shoot enemies, covering their ships with bursts of energy. During the next maneuver, the ship may skid recklessly. And then the player will be on the sidelines of the fight. You will have to get used to the frantic rhythm, but this makes the game more interesting.
Players for communication between team members have a simple communication system. On the radar, comrades are highlighted, and there you can also see this or that object or say something in voice chat. However, for space, such a system is not very popular, since in such a space it is easy to confuse the sides, all concepts are relative.
The game has six PvP modes: team battles, defending points, capturing, etc.
2. Eve online
- Release date: 2003
- Genre: MMORPG, Role-playing game, Space
- Developer: CCP
This space project is considered one of the largest and most global of all. Therefore, it is rightfully often placed at the top of lists and ratings. Every day thousands of people are immersed in the world of the game. EVE online also features epic battles, a realistic economy, a real alliance war, and much more.
The player is given the right to choose who to become in the game. He can choose peaceful professions, for example, becoming a merchant and trading in the vastness of the galaxy. Or become a soldier - a participant in mass battles. The third option is a mercenary. He works for different organizations, etc.
The developers' goal to make a realistic space simulator was completely achieved. The hero becomes the captain of a ship and plunges into a world of intrigue and war, trying to win a worthy place in the world. There is an incredible number of locations, planets, heroes, ships and other things.
3. Spore
- Release date: 2009
- Genre: Games for boys, Open world games
- Developer: Maxis
The simulator has earned the reputation of being unique among gamers. As the gamer progresses through this game, it develops into a space strategy game. And it all starts with the fact that the player must create his own creature, unlike anyone else. It begins to develop from the state of an amoeba, gradually turning into an intelligent creature. And this creature creates its own tribe. The character editor is varied, so the results can be interesting.
After a creature has reached a certain level of development, the process of creating its own universal empire begins. To do this, the player will have to capture planets, fly on spaceships, and fight enemies.
4. Star Federation
- Release date: 2014
- Genre: Strategy, Science Fiction, MMORTS
- Developer: D. Grishin
Federation is not just a strategy. There are elements of economics and war games here. And everything together makes a great combination. Moreover, the possibilities are almost endless. The gamer will have to build cities on planets, fight with representatives of other civilizations, etc. The game has a balance between types of activities; it cannot be said that attention is focused on one thing. As a result, there is a kind of manual for building an empire.
Here high level complexity, it is not suitable for children and schoolchildren. The number of races exceeds the similar number in similar games. Each has its own technologies, capabilities and skills. The economy in the game is balanced, the main task is to extract resources that help create an army. Therefore, success in wars here is directly related to the successful development of the economy.
But dangers await the player everywhere. One of them is political intrigues; it is not easy to resist them, but it is easy to die. The gamer has to make a choice, who to be? A true diplomat, then greatness will have to be built on alliances and sales. Or a “bad guy”. In this case, you will have to fight a lot and fight.
5. StarCraft 2
- Release date: 2010
- Genre: Strategy, Real Time Strategy
- Developer: Blizzard Ent
If we talk about cult space strategies, then StarCraft 2 is one of them. Now it belongs to the disciplines of eSports. The gamer finds himself in a future where three races coexist. They share leadership. The player is left with the choice of faction, and then he will have to complete various tasks.
The game may involve confrontation with real, live players, taking place over large areas. The player will have to carefully think through tactics, find out the weaknesses of the enemy, using them against him.
In addition to battles in the game, you need to build houses. Capture territories and recruit people.
6. Civilization: Beyond Earth
- Release date: 2014
- Genre: Strategy, Grand Strategy
- Developer: Firaxis Games
This strategy with a global scope is one of the cult ones and is a continuation of the series about the life of civilizations. It's very similar to Civilization. But here is a different place - a different planet, there are starships, and you need to shoot lasers at the aliens. In the game, all people first unite by flying to another planet. And then they disperse. And the boundaries between are ideological. Factions have different relationships with citizens, alien inhabitants.
It is these creatures that are the most significant change in the plot. Their influence is great, and victory without them is impossible. You will have to establish contact with them, become friends, help them. At the same time defending against attacks from other factions.
7. Stellaris
- Year: 2016
- Genre: Strategic
- Developer: Paradox Development Studio
A space strategy game with a huge number of creatures. There is a lot of variety in the game. The gamer can choose how to trade or negotiate with other characters. And the number of factions here is amazing. The powers here strive to become leaders thanks to economics, science, politics, and not through military action.
But there is still a combat system here. However, it is primitive. There is not even direct control of ships here. They fight the battle themselves. There is almost no room for the player in battles, and for some this can be a significant disadvantage.
8. Halo Wars
- Year of manufacture: 2009
- Developer: Ensemble Studios,Robot Entertainment
Science fiction fans are probably familiar with the Halo universe. And the strategy became a pattern. The plot in this space strategy was a success. It tells about the planet Harvest. Thematic videos appear during breaks between missions.
There are plenty of battles here. And they are very good. Great amount modes against players, passing by a team. The interface is clear and convenient. The game will also appeal to fans of science fiction and real-time strategy fans.
9. Endless Space – Emperor Edition
- Year of manufacture: 2012
- Genre: Strategy (Turn-based / Grand strategy)
- Developer: Amplitude Studios
The main activities of gamers in this space strategy are to develop diplomatic relations and the economy. Only a small part of the races are warlike. The rest choose to sell and negotiate.
The space in the game is huge, there is enough for everyone. There are many planets and systems here. However, there are planets that have become a “tidbit” for some. Therefore, everyone will have to have security forces.
The traditions of “Civilization” can also be traced: the gamer is able to win not only by military means, but also with the help of Nike or diplomacy.
10. Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds
- Released: 2001
- Genre: Strategic, real time
- Developer: Ensemble Studios, LucasArts
The plot of the game is from the famous universe of the same name. Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds is a classic. It has become iconic for many fans. Although there are no “galactic battles” as such here. The main task is to build larger number houses on a small planet. And the soldiers are ordered to destroy the enemy.
There are no epic stories, nothing like that here. Although there are Jedi. And in general the game has stood the test of time. The player will not control spaceships here. Units and buildings are subject to him. For lovers of nostalgia, this is a great option to spend the evening.
11. Homeworld
- Release date: 1999
- Genre: Strategy
Only a small number of space strategies can withstand comparison with Homeworld. And new versions, which the authors continued to release, help extend the life of games.
The story in the game is about the search for a planet suitable for life. To do this you will have to travel across the galaxy. The game has a mystical atmosphere; there are many ancient secrets to be revealed. You will have to defeat your enemies. The plot is made in the form of comics. They are served during breaks between missions.
The gameplay here is excellent: three-dimensionality is fully used, the flight altitude is selected, turns are made, there are nebulae, asteroids and other attributes of space.
The long-awaited sequel was released in 2016. This is a prequel to the original story. And the place of action here is the surface. This means that corresponding changes have been made to the gameplay. But recognizable features of the classic version also remained.
12. Battlefleet Gothic: Armada
- Release date: 2016
- Developer: Tindalos Interactive
- Genre: Real-time strategy
The selection could not do without this toy. It's cosmic, and fresh too. The gamer takes on the role of a defender. He must protect the “Gothic” sector from enemies. And to help him is the battle fleet. You'll have to fight off a lot of people. There are orcs and numerous other opponents here.
The controls in the game are excellent, as is the sound. The combat weapons fire like real ones, and the epic explosions and such are impressive. In between battles, the player will also have something to do - he can improve his ships, look at the landscapes of space.
Despite some coldness from the public, the game has its fans and will appeal to both space lovers and fans of colorful battles.
13. Astro Lords
- Release date:2014
- Genre: Shooter, Space, Sci-Fi, MMORTS
- Developers: Aratog Games
This space strategy game is designed for many users. And this is why it is good and attractive to players. Gamers will have to master new space stones, or survive thanks to raids on rich neighbors.
It is possible to be friends with them by concluding an alliance agreement. This creates a huge empire. You will also have to defend yourself from aliens, so the player will never be bored.
14. Ethereum
- Release date: 2015
- Genre: Online strategy
- Developers: Tindalos, Focus Home
One of the important elements of any strategy is the war for resources. Therefore, the scriptwriters of this space strategy did not have to rack their brains over how to pit factions and heroes against each other. And the economic system has become simpler.
The game is distinguished by the absence of a race with a collective mind that can win with numbers. The parties will have a hard time fighting for etherium. People need to mine, and aliens need to protect. There are also other aliens. But they are a complete mystery.
The game itself is local, but there are also global aspects. Aliens control weather phenomena, but sometimes nature gets out of control, giving surprises. The course of events is also influenced by the invisible stations that are in orbit.
The player can invest either in such stations (they destroy the opponents’ base). Or start improving your own. This is, if we talk about the gaming layout in a nutshell. But even so she looks interesting.
15. Homeworld 2
- Release date:2003
- Genre: Real-time strategy
- Developer: Gearbox Software, Relic Entertainment
A gamer in this part of Homeworld will have to visit the vastness of outer space. There will be a lot of battles and intrigues here. But we will talk about a different race, this is different from the first part.
A new enemy has been discovered. The Vaygr are hostile and it is impossible to come to an agreement. They attack with advanced technology, and the Hiigarans are threatened with destruction. The plot is excellent, everyone will find something interesting for themselves.
The gameplay matches the first part. But there are also new things: the presence of platforms. They make ships safe. There are also the latest technologies (combat, conventional and others), many units and other means of transportation.
But in general, it’s still the same, beloved by many, space strategy with interesting tasks, creating ships, war with opponents, studying technology.
16. Gray Goo
- Release date: 2015
- Genre: Strategy
- Developer: Petroglyph Games
“Gray Slime” - this is how the name of this space strategy is translated in Russian; it talks about the possible end of the world. Nanobots created by people have learned to reproduce themselves. And their production ceases to be controlled. That's why only bots remain on the planet.
Still, there are three races in the game. “Slime” is one of the most interesting. It crawls all over the map, can take any form, and absorb enemies.
17. Sins of a Solar Empire
- Released: 2008
- Genre: Strategic, real time, global
- Developer: Ironclad Games
One might assume that in this space game epic Shakespearean story. But no. This is just a good strategy, where there is a general description of the world. The heroes here are the heirs of colonists from Earth, invaders from other planets. Players will have to fight and trade a lot.
A special feature of the game is that there are two switching modes:
- Local
- Global.
The second means that you need to move the fleet, capture territories (planets), extract resources, etc. Local mode means the ability to beat (lose) the enemy tactically.
There are 3 races here. People are divided into ordinary and super people, plus there are aliens. These races are the same in all expansions. The battles here are varied, thanks to the weather and disasters. And also the presence of neutral factions.
Critics call the game a good mixture of local and large-scale. However, it lacks a charismatic hero and a memorable conflict.
18. Supreme Commander
- Release date: 2007
- Genre: strategy
- Developers: Wargaming Seattle
Outer space as such does not exist in this space strategy. But the plot takes place in the distant future, when interplanetary spaces are well developed and flights between stars exist. There is also a unique, exclusively cosmic thing - the scale of each battle. Gamers will have to control a lot of equipment.
The classic plot will appeal to all fans of space games: factions share living space and property. Each has its own characteristics and style. All this makes the game process unique and interesting.
Plunge into the world of space!
Space strategies is a special, unique genre. All lovers of the vast expanses of space will appreciate games like this. There will be a lot of flights, battles, faction wars. And only the player can decide which side to take. Experience it for yourself, try to plunge into the world of space right now!
Let's first define what we generally mean by “space strategy”. The answer “well, it’s a strategy in space” obviously doesn’t work. Firstly, “cosmic” can be understood in different ways. There are at least two interpretations: the action takes place in interplanetary/interstellar space or on other planets. In other words, wherever space is relative to Mother Earth. Secondly, “strategy” can also be different. There are at least two pairs of concepts: global or local, step-by-step or real-time. So here are the games on our list best strategies may belong to ANY of these categories. We understand that everyone has their own understanding of “space strategy,” so we’ll make it clear to avoid disputes.
17. Surviving Mars (RTS)
16. Battlestar Galactica Deadlock (4X STRATEGY)
The events of Deadlock take place during the First Cylon War, when the Cylons, who had faithfully served the people, suddenly rebelled against humanity and began to seize remote colonies. After some time, it began to seem that the heat of war was gradually beginning to fade - and then the Cylons managed to destroy the entire command of the Colonial Fleet in one successful raid.
The eldest of the embroidered officers turns out to be Rear Admiral Lucinda Cain, who now has to gather the remnants of the fleet and protect the Twelve Colonies from the Cylon threat. To do this, you will have to design and build new ones, hire officers and conduct complex negotiations with colonial governments.
15. Ethereum (RTS)
A war for a unique resource can be considered at least one of the subgenres of strategy. This saves writers the headache of coming up with faction and character motivations and makes it easier economic system. Also, the name of the resource must be in the title of the game and end with “ium”! Meet our client – Etherium.
In fact, although Etherium started in last place in the selection, it still got into it for a reason. The most interesting thing in this game, perhaps, is that there are no conventional “zergs” in it: a race that has a collective mind and wins in numbers. All sides fighting for precious etherium rely on technology, each in their own way and in their own way. People, of course, want to get it, aliens want to protect it, and other aliens... they are, in general, mysterious, there must be at least some kind of mystery?
The global aspects of Etherium are also interesting, although this itself is local. Firstly, it's the weather. Even though the aliens can control it, the planet itself still sometimes presents surprises. Secondly, these are invisible orbital stations that influence the course of the game. Actually, the player can either invest resources in a ground army or in space stations, which from their height slowly but surely destroy the enemy base. Of course, this is a very crude tactical calculation, but even in this form it looks interesting.
14. Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds (RTS)
This top would be incomplete without a game in the “” universe. This top would be incomplete without playing on the engine of the legendary Age of Empires. This top would be incomplete... but it is complete because we only make complete tops for you. Like this. Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds is a poster for a classic franchise, stretched over the frame of a classic strategy game. Droids, clones, the Republican army, Wookiees and Gungans - they will all remind fans of Age of Empires of one of the ethnic groups.
It's funny what name Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds falls short of its essence. “Galactic battles” are about building more of your own houses on a small planet, and then using your soldiers to shoot the houses of your opponents. No epic stories, no Death Star, or even... no, there are, but they die from blasters just like other units. A sort of order 66 on the scale of one planet.
Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds stands the test of time and deserves an honorable place in the top, since it is one of the few local games where you need to manage units and buildings, and not huge ones space cruisers. The graphics, of course, are no longer the same, and an HD edition of this game is unlikely to happen. Now Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds is a game to indulge in nostalgia for the evening.
13. Halo Wars (RTS)
The Halo universe has long and successfully set another level of quality for science fiction, conveying warm regards Mass Effect and Star Wars. Therefore, it is not surprising that in 2009 a strategy based on the game was released, first released on the Xbox 360, and many years later reaching the PC.
So, what does a showdown between the covenant and people look like from a bird's eye view? And they look impressive, as befits a game from . Fans of the universe will quickly notice both the “Spartans” and many other units. Moreover, they behave accordingly in Halo Wars. "Boars" jump from the mountains, shoot painfully, and the infantrymen curse and throw grenades at their opponents. The plot in this space strategy is also at a decent level. It is dedicated to the planet “Harvest” and is presented in the form of amazing videos between missions. The narrative is woven into the main canon and even intersects with the events of the book "Fall Fall".
But what kind of game can bear the name Halo if it doesn't have interesting online battles? By the standards of a space RTS, everything here is also very good. Many modes shared passage campaigns, user-friendly interface and still working servers. In general, summing up everything described above, we can safely recommend Halo Wars to fans of both high-quality science fiction and real-time strategies. Even though a sequel was released in 2017, it is the first part that is more accessible both in price and due to its free sale in.
12. Sid Meyer’s Civilization: Beyond Earth (4x Strategy)
For one thing, this game will definitely be remembered for its epic and touching trailers. Otherwise, it’s the same “Civilization”, turn-based, just on another planet, with starships, lasers and aliens. It’s funny that in the story, humanity united to send a “ship of generations” to an inhabited planet, but after it reached its goal, people again found a reason to separate. This time, the boundaries between factions are not national, but ideological: each faction represents a system of approaches to a new habitat, its citizens and aliens.
In fact, they are perhaps the most noticeable innovation of the game. They have a significant impact on the gameplay, but the main thing is that they have a unique victory condition associated with them. People can merge with the living mind of the planet itself, becoming a fundamentally new biological species. To do this, you need to make friends with aliens, that is, not fight with them and help them. True, other factions are unlikely to be happy with these attempts, so you will still have to develop the economy, army and diplomacy.
Sid Meyer’s Civilization: Beyond Earth is the ideological successor to the “Civilization” series in general and Sid Meyer’s Alpha Centauri in particular. The most devoted fans of "civilian" for the most part still prefer a realistic, historical setting. They cannot even imagine how it is possible to “unite minds” with barbarians, whose role is, in fact, played by aliens in Beyond Earth. Either way, there's no denying that this game has its own charm.
11. Galactic Civilizations III (4x Strategy)
Igrostroy would not be an igrostroy if some online games did not try to get a piece of a competitor’s fame by trying on his name. Specifically for the word “civilization,” of course, no one has copyright, but everyone understands where the legs of the name come from Galactic Civilizations III. Okay, let's not find fault with the hexagons on the map, only the lazy don't use them. Better about the game itself.
Galactic Civilizations III captivates with the ability to customize the selected faction, that is, in every game appearance ships and even representatives may change. So to speak, we added a little Sims. But the manipulations with these ships are approximately the same as in any other large-scale space strategy. Capture, defend, extract, trade - what else to do if the vacuum is no longer lifeless and limitless?
Compared to other global ones, the role of the fleet in Galactic Civilizations III is increased. Yes, players still cannot control ships manually, but they have more control options. In other words, players can not only send ships to the stars and planets, but also outline the scenario in which their fleet will fight if it attacks or is attacked. Agree, this is already more interesting than the concept of the fleet simply as the personification of power.
10. Battlefleet Gothic: Armada (RTS)
It would be very strange to see a selection of space strategies for PC without a representative of the Warhammer universe. May Dawn of War fans forgive us with their redistribution of planetary trenches, but the fresh Battlefleet Gothic: Armada is truly cosmic.
The game allows users to take on the role of one of the defenders of the Gothic sector, along with a small battle fleet. As the campaign progresses, divided into several acts, the mighty imperial admirals will have to fight off the Eldar and other eternal enemies of the imperium.
And this confrontation looks, sounds and is controlled in the highest class. Salvos of airborne guns, boardings, rams and epic explosions accompany any showdown in this space strategy. Between hot battles, moments of silence will be brightened up by a system of ship upgrades and impressive space landscapes. Both fans of Warhammer and simply players who appreciate space battles should definitely like the game, but there is still a certain coldness in its acceptance by the public.
9. Gray Goo (RTS)
If you're not at least a little into science fiction, the name of this game - "grey goo" - won't mean much to you. For reference, this is a hypothetical scenario for the end of humanity. In it, people create nanobots, give them the ability to create themselves, this whole industry gets out of control, and after a few days there is nothing left on our planet except them, a conventional gray mass...
So, Gray Goo is not about this scenario. But why did we tell about him then? The fact is that this very mass is one of the factions of this space strategy, but this is the only similarity with the scenario. In the game, it is, rather, a kind of semi-mystical collective mind that can clothe itself in any form... and devour anything. Opposing him, as well as each other, are people essential to space strategy and highly intelligent (not to be confused with superintelligence) aliens.
Thus, Gray Goo also relies on the trinity of races, sacred to many strategies. The most interesting thing, of course, is to play as the “gray slime”, since it, in fact, does not have the usual stationary base, but “crawls” across the map, changing shape if necessary and absorbing the unfortunate. It is curious that according to the plot (small spoiler) this is not absolute, but a kind of “chaotic neutral”, if you rely on the Dungeons & Dragons moral system. Overall, Gray Goo is an interesting variation on the Starcraft theme... and it will be remembered as a variation.
8. Star Wars: Empire At War (RTS)
The theme of battles in interstellar space has long been occupied by Star Wars, and therefore in our list of space strategies this world is represented by two games. Unlike the obsolete Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds, Empire At War presents the battles of the empire and the rebels from a more global perspective.
The main mode of the game is the capture of the galaxy, where many worlds that are significant for the universe are presented, for which you have to fight. The battle for each planet is presented in two stages: space and then ground. Both stages take place in real time and on maps corresponding to each planet.
Moreover, if in the case of space the differences between locations are not too significant, on the surface everything is much more interesting. Every world offers Various types environment, weather conditions and natives who may be loyal to one of the parties. Besides all this, this space strategy looks and sounds like a full-fledged episode " Star Wars" So few people remained indifferent to Empire At War, as evidenced by the continued popularity of the game.
7. Sins of A Solar Empire (4x RTS)
It would seem that a game with such a pretentious name should have an epic, almost Shakespearean plot, a drama on a galactic scale, a space opera as it is. "Sins of the Empire of the Sun", wow, sounds like the title of a philosophical treatise! However, in reality it is a real-time strategy game with a very general description game world. Descendants of earthly colonists, alien invaders, trade wars - in general, everything is the same as everywhere else, so let's move straight to the gameplay.
An interesting feature of Sins of A Solar Empire is that you can - and should - switch between global and local modes. Global is the movement of fleets, the capture of planets and the extraction of resources from them, the expansion and retention of possessions. In Local mode, the player takes direct control of their ships to tactically outmatch the enemy... or outperform them.
Speaking of balance, it is equal and stable in the game, since it is based on three races: conventional people, superhumans and aliens. New races did not appear in the expansions, since strategies are usually very sensitive to such changes. Diversity in both battles and the economy is provided by “weather” (all kinds of space disasters) and neutral factions and objects (, stations, space debris, etc.). Sins of a Solar Empire turned out to be an interesting and solid hybrid of global and local strategy, and the only thing it lacks is a campaign with memorable characters and conflicts.
6. Endless Space Series (4x Strategy)
Endless Space is a game whose formula Stellaris tried to replicate. Five years later, a sequel was released, in which the developers improved many aspects of the game... but they still failed to overtake Stellaris in popularity. That's why Stellaris is ranked higher, although it would be fair to place these games - along with the first part of Endless Space - on the same pedestal. It is together, as a franchise, that we will consider them (and this, by the way, applies to other franchises in the top).
The two main occupations of players in Endless Space 2 are economics and diplomacy. Only a third of the total number of races can boast of military advantages, while the rest prefer to trade and negotiate. Thankfully star systems there are many, there are even more planets in them, so there is usually enough space for everyone. But, of course, some planets are much more profitable to colonize and develop, so all races have the strength to at least defend.
In the best traditions of “Civilization,” a player in Endless Space can win by military, scientific, diplomatic, or conventionally “cultural” means. Separately, it is worth highlighting the economic one, since in this aspect Endless Space turns into a “game of one resource” - Dust. IN similar games The legacy of Frank Herbert's legendary Dune is clearly visible, in which the war is waged over the miraculous spice (not what you think). Unfortunately, in strategies the essence of the “uber resource” is simplified, without giving it additional meaning, but only giving it absolute value.
5. Supreme Commander (RTS)
Supreme Commander is the de facto heir Total series Annihilation and one of the most significant strategies in history. And although space as such is not represented in the game, the events of this RTS take place in the distant future, where interstellar flights have long been mastered.
However, the thing that makes this game unique can be called “Cosmic”. This is the scale of each battle that players observe on their . Forget about the foolishness of 10 tanks and one infantryman, typical of most other games. Supreme Commander puts players in control of tank fists, clouds of bombers, and entire fleets of ships.
The plot of this strategy is quite classic for space-themed games. The three factions did not divide the living space and arranged a redistribution of property. OFZ, Cybranes and Eon have their own style and game features, which makes the gameplay even more rich and varied. Overall, Supreme Commander is a time-tested classic among PC games and is recommended for all fans of the genre.
4. Master of Orion (4x Strategy)
Orion is one of the few constellations that actually resembles in shape what it calls: a human hero, a mythological character. Moreover, it contains some of the brightest stars in our galaxy and is easily visible in the starry sky. It is not surprising that Orion appears in many science fiction works, including, of course, PC games.
For example, step by step global strategy Master of Orion. The developers were successfully the first to “stake out” a kosher name for themselves, so their game cannot be confused with anyone else. But this is not only due to the name: the first version was released back in 1993, and in 2016 it was re-released, and MoO began to sparkle with new colors. The concept remained unchanged: all ten races migrated to new version(only in collector's edition You can play as a bonus faction).
Along with the races in updated Master of Orion included war, diplomacy and economics - everything you love in global strategies, flavored with a scattering of stars and planets. By the way, Master of Orion is one of the few computer games of this genre, from which they made. Only the notorious “Civilization” received the same honor, but not its space version. So in this top, MoO is the only game that is both computer and board. It may not look like it on the surface, but in reality it is a serious confession.
3. Stellaris (Global Strategy)
While some strategies adhere to the rule “the fewer races, the better,” others are happy to offer players diversity on a truly cosmic scale. This has its own charm and logic: not all galaxies have only one intelligent species for thousands of light years around, as in ours. There must be others in which intelligent life is in full swing!
This is exactly the galaxy depicted Stellaris strategy. You can play in it with a variety of creatures with unique methods of trade and diplomacy. This is what the game focuses on, since balancing so many factions on the battlefield is extremely difficult. Therefore, galactic powers strive for superiority through the development of the economy, political relations, science and... no, the development of culture is already about the Sid Meier series.
There are still battles in Stellaris, but for the above reasons, they are quite primitive. You can’t even control them directly; they fight on their own. In some cases, this may look spectacular, but since the player watches it almost indifferently, “from a bird’s eye view,” the battles do not cause such emotional impact as in other space strategies.
2. Starcraft (RTS)
Most of the games in this collection are global strategies, but real-time strategy comes in second place. It is worth recognizing that global ones are much more popular, and according to this logic, one of them had to be promoted to the leader... but still, this is Starcraft. This is a true artifact of an era when real-time strategy games were at their peak.
What is this era remembered for, why are the memories of it so pleasant? Perhaps because every worker, soldier, hero, and unit in general had an individuality. Take the memes, for example! Arthas from Warcraft (for my father), monks from Age of Empires (wololo!), from Starcraft (a nuclear missile launch was detected): people, although not often, remember them in funny pictures, and this means a lot in the modern world. Global strategies are captivating in general, but they are not captivating with such details.
Finally, Starcraft is of great importance to the genre and . It was this game that established and popularized the “holy trinity” - a balance based on three absolutely different races, each with its own disadvantages and advantages, having equal opportunities in the game with equal abilities of opponents. This, in turn, allowed Starcraft to become one of the very first eSports disciplines. In South Korea, official competitions are still held for both the second and first parts of the game. It is curious that it was the first one that received cult status, and it was she who was honored by releasing an HD re-release.
1. Homeworld Series (RTS)
No matter what strategies come out before or after Homeworld, few projects can stand comparison with this series. The mechanics implemented in these RTS are so verified that the authors have released updated versions that extend the life of the games even longer.
One of the main selling points is the story, which follows an adventure to find a habitable planet that spans the entire galaxy. The atmosphere is closely related to the revelation of ancient secrets and overcoming enemies. The plot is presented in the form of stylish, presented between missions, which have long become legendary.
The gameplay is no worse. Few space strategy developers dare to use space the way Homeworld does. Full use of three-dimensionality, with a choice of “Altitude” for the flight of units, turns and dogfights, nebulae, asteroids and vast distances, these are just a few of the things that Homeworld’s gameplay is famous for.
And although the sequel was expected for a very long time, it turned out far from what many players imagined. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak, released in 2016, turned out to be a prequel to the original story. But the main difference was that the game moved to the surface of the planet. The gameplay has changed accordingly, but recognizable features like interesting plot, radio communications of units and general style remained in full.
Thus, this is one of the best works on the theme of space, capable of captivating for many evenings. And the time after which players return to this series over and over again to relive its events is indisputable proof of these words.
Conclusion
Real-time strategy games have almost disappeared over the horizon, and we only see a glimmer of their former glory. Global strategies have taken their place, and they have all the makings to last just as long. But what happens next? The genre will definitely not go into oblivion, but what form will it take and what niche will it occupy? Maybe this will be partly a return to the roots, but it’s not for nothing that there are still those who hope for Warcraft IV. Or maybe combining with currently popular genres such as and. Surely something similar can already be found at indie studios, but not a single such project has taken off yet. Maybe they are hiding in the top? But wait, we don't have that... yet.
Starring Foxvic
Star Federation
Space strategy Star Federation is an online multiplayer game that is completely free to play. Thanks to modern graphics and wide functionality, this game has been among the top strategies for many years now. The main functionality is based on the exploration of outer space in accordance with the chosen tactics. The choice of both economic development and military regime is possible.
StarDrive 2
This game is a modernization of the already legendary StarDrive. The key symbol here is the spaceship. The player will have the opportunity to go on an exciting and at the same time extremely extreme journey. Story line is being built from 2 sides - simultaneously, both space exploration and military operations with colonialists and aliens are carried out. If desired, you can do without war, giving preference to diplomatic relations. But in the struggle to create the only powerful Empire, diplomacy does not always carry a strong weight.
Xterium
Distinctive feature This strategy is that the player can very quickly collect resources for his own development and hire a large number of troops at once. There are 2 modes available for mastering - combat and peaceful. Depending on the choice, the main tactics of action also depend. But even the choice in favor of diplomacy is not always able to create the possibility of a peaceful resolution of the problem that has arisen. It was this kind of plot structure that allowed this strategy to be included in the list of the best.
Sins of a solar empire
Real-time space strategy, firmly entrenched in second position. At the very beginning of the game, the hero needs to choose which of the 3 races he will fight for - earthlings, Vasari or space gypsies (the third race does not have a clearly defined location and is fighting for the right to receive it). The storyline is built on contrasts - on the one hand, it is diplomacy and an attempt to come to an agreement, and on the other, a constant battle for leadership. Who and what will win in this battle depends only on the efforts of the protagonist. The interface of this game is available, including in Russian.
Xcraft
In our opinion, space strategy Xcraft is the best currently available. The main objectives of the game are the development and constant struggle for the survival of the empire, the exploration of outer space in the form of individual planets and intergalactic systems. In the game, development begins with a lonely planet and ends with large alliances ready to destroy entire planets to achieve their goals. We also recommend reading the full
The theme of space fascinates players with its mystery and immensity. It was the thirst for discovery that drove humanity throughout its rational existence, so the theme of space, displayed in the best space strategies on PC, endlessly attracts players with its endless expanses. We recommend looking at the list of popular browser strategies that will captivate you for a long time.
Selection of games:
Space strategy games on PC
Nexus: The Jupiter Incident
A tactical strategy centered not on the universe, but on your fleet. Instead of building a base and collecting resources, you will develop and manage spaceships. There are various races, ships, interesting tasks.
Nexus: The Jupiter Incident is made on the Black Sun engine, making the battles cinematic and lengthy. The strategy was released in 2004, but even today it looks great.
Spore
A unique simulator that, as you progress, develops into a space strategy. At the beginning, you create a unique creature and go through a difficult path from an amoeba to an intelligent creature that will begin to gather a tribe. Thanks to the rich character editor, you can get a wide variety of options.
Having developed, you will begin to create your own space empire. Starting with the capture of his home planet, the player will be able to travel through space on spaceships and fight with other civilizations.
Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds
Strategy based on the popular Star Wars franchise. There are 6 campaigns in which you can experience various adventures with familiar heroes. For example, in the tutorial, the player controls the Jedi Qui-Goh and repels the Trade Federation's assault.
Game process is based on the construction of buildings, management of units and collection of resources. The task is to destroy all rivals. In all respects this is a standard strategy, but in the Star Wars universe.
Halo Wars: Definitive Edition
Halo Wars: Definitive Edition is a real-time strategy game that will definitely appeal to Halo fans. The events of the game tell about the war between the UNSC and the Covenant, which was shown in the original shooter. In Halo Wars, you can look at a conflict from different angles and control large armies and heroes.
There is base construction, but the main emphasis is on combat. The game was released in 2017 on PC, and previously it was only visited Xbox consoles. It came to PC in the form of an improved edition with additions and improved graphics.
Sid Meyer's Civilization: Beyond Earth
Grand strategy, part of the Civilization series. In step-by-step mode on a hexagonal map, you need to build cities, study technologies, and develop civilizations. Now you don't choose a specific empire - creating a unique civilization is done through decisions made at the beginning of the game.
Why space? Having developed, the player can leave his home planet and go colonizing. The unique atmosphere of the planets, aliens and other factors will create certain difficulties.
StarCraft 2 is a cult strategy that has become an eSports discipline. The action takes place in the future. Three races - Terrans, Zerg and Protoss - started a war for leadership in the Galaxy. The player is asked to choose a faction and complete various tasks.
The main advantage of StarCraft 2 is multiplayer, players can compete with other users on large maps. Some call the game “modern chess”, since to win you need to think through tactics and study all the weaknesses of your opponent. The gameplay consists of constructing buildings, recruiting an army and capturing enemy territories.
Relatively new economic strategies in real time. All the consequences of an economic RTS are present in the game to a sufficient extent: the main essence of the game is the extraction of resources and increasing your own wealth. This is, so to speak, a simulator of a space entrepreneur, where the main task is the development of a Martian colony.
Global space strategy without a plot. The main task of the player is to gain complete dominance over outer space. The absence of a plot implies complete freedom of action for you as a player.
You can develop your own space stations, develop your own army, build fortifications, enter into diplomatic alliances and much more.
Choose your side of the battle among eight nations, each of which wants to defeat the others. It is not necessary to engage in protracted hostilities, because you can build your political game based on trade ties. To win, you can also look for expensive artifacts that will give you an advantage over your opponents and develop technologies. Choose your own path and lead your own faction to victory!
A global space strategy in real time, where the player’s main task is to explore space, build his own state, and its military and diplomatic interaction with other interstellar empires.
Are you ready to become the leader of the most powerful space fleet? Take over the galaxy by establishing your own rules. Complete various tasks, explore the vast expanses of space, destroy pirates and other hostile individuals, and maybe the galaxy will become yours.
Galactic Civilizations III
Global step-by-step strategy with classic conditions for victory over opponents. The player can develop his own civilization in a variety of plans to achieve superiority over others. You can increase the number of troops, improve the cultural component of your nation, make a technological breakthrough in science, or use diplomacy to create global peace.
The game's plot revolves around the battle of three major factions, each of which wants to conquer the others. All factions fight for control of resources - whoever has the resources rules the world. In this chaos of war, you have to choose the side for which you will fight.
Every nation has its own strengths and weaknesses, tree technology and through technological development, so we recommend that you base your choice on the technologies of nations, choosing the type of development that is closest to you.
A classic space strategy that allows the player to develop his own empire, choosing unique development paths. Explore the vast expanses of space in search of various artifacts and resources, enter into diplomatic agreements with other races, or destroy them using high technology.
A story-based game with a space theme. Although the plot of the game is linear, it is still quite interesting. In addition to the main plot, the game has many additional tasks, helping to distract from the main plot. The main goal of the game is revenge for the destruction of your compatriots. You have to find the attackers and grind them into powder.
One of the cult series about star battles in an untried setting. Even a decade after its release, the graphics still remain pleasant and do not evoke a feeling of “antiquity,” and the gameplay, divided into three (in some parts, four) components, is interesting even after repeated playthroughs.
In addition, at start new game the universe is generated anew, which gives rise to new ones game situations. A flexible role system allows the player to be a pirate, ranger, merchant, and all sub-roles coming from these roles.
If Star Rangers had come out not so long ago, they would have been worthy of taking first place in the top 10 best space strategies on PC.
The best thing about the multiplayer strategy Astro Lords is that it is multiplayer. All players are busy exploring new asteroids, but sometimes they also interrupt by raiding richer, but less powerful neighbors. In addition, the game allows you to enter into alliance agreements with your neighbors, creating your own huge empire. In addition, it is necessary to defend against sometimes attacking aliens.
The Homeworld series stands out among the rest of the best space strategies for its unusual, although not understandable for beginners, gameplay. You need to protect the Hiigarians from a new, hitherto unknown enemy - the Vaygr. Help stop the Vaygars to stop their invader from entering the vast expanses of space.
A logical question: why does EvE online top the list of space strategies on PC? It's simple: EvE is the most global strategy of all! Hundreds of thousands of people play Eve every day. It’s hard to imagine more epic battles than in Eve, because the game’s economy is very similar to the real one, which creates a real war of alliances for the right to manage resources.
IN Eve online you choose who to be: a peaceful merchant trading in different parts of the galaxy, a soldier fighting in major world battles, a mercenary working for various organizations, and so on.
