The real-time strategy (RTS) genre enjoyed immense popularity in the gaming world, especially on PC, during the 1990s and early 2000s. Games like Warcraft, Starcraft, and the pioneering Dune 2 played a pivotal role in its widespread appeal during this period.
After a significant period of dormancy, the RTS genre is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. This revival can be attributed to highly anticipated releases like Cataclismo and Dungeons 4, both indie strategy games, along with the successful remasters of classics from the Command & Conquer and Age Of Empires series. However, it's worth noting that most RTS games typically adhere to modern or historical themes. The exceptions, like Age Of Mythology and the recent Northgard, delve into mythology, offering players immersive fantasy experiences. These games, ranging from small indie projects to renowned franchise sequels, deliberately focus on fantastical themes, providing a diverse array of gaming experiences.
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Warcraft 3: Reign Of Chaos
The third installment in Blizzard's esteemed Warcraft RTS series is widely considered one of the finest. Its compelling storylines are complemented by skilled voice acting, along with vibrant 3D graphics that arguably remain visually appealing even by today's standards. The game's swift gameplay adds to its appeal.
Beyond Warcraft 3's famous fantasy races and compelling narrative, it stands out as a captivating traditional RTS. Its diverse gameplay has stood the test of time admirably. During its release, Warcraft 3 was incredibly innovative, boasting high-quality graphics and an intuitive user interface, features lacking in many contemporary RTS games. To this day, it is hailed as one of the best fantasy RTS games ever made.
Dungeons 3
This fantasy strategy game combines real-time strategy elements with the base-building mechanics reminiscent of the classic Dungeon Keeper. Dungeons 3 stands out as one of the best interpretations of Dungeon Keeper's design, not only because it captures the excitement of dungeon construction but also due to its innovation in introducing a second layer of gameplay.
In Dungeons 3, players must focus on constructing and defending their dungeon against heroes while simultaneously launching attacks on the world's surface. This surface gameplay constitutes the majority of the game's real-time strategy mechanics. Moreover, players are compelled to interact with the surface to accomplish objectives. Those familiar with Dungeons 3 can anticipate the eagerly awaited release of Dungeons 4.
Total War: Warhammer 2
This follow-up enhanced and expanded upon the strong base established by Total War: Warhammer, resulting in one of the most refined and extensive offerings within the Total War series. It introduced highly unique factions, each encouraging diverse playstyles.
Set in a fantastical world, Total War: Warhammer 2 stands out as a rare gem within the franchise. It not only caters to fans of the original but arguably surpasses it, making a strong case for being the best game in the trilogy.
Thronefall
This streamlined real-time strategy (RTS) game adopts a delightfully straightforward visual style and simplified gameplay, simplifying the typically intricate mechanics of RTS games to make them accessible for all players. Yet, it remains compelling for those well-versed in the genre.
In Thronefall, players take direct control of a hero character, utilizing a basic attack and ability, while also overseeing the economy to efficiently construct and safeguard a small kingdom. Players can create different units to fend off waves of enemies, issuing straightforward commands through intuitive controls.
The Lord Of The Rings: The Battle For Middle-Earth 2
Enthusiasts of fantasy games are probably familiar with, if not ardent fans of, The Lord of the Rings franchise. Whether they are followers of Tolkien's original book series or Peter Jackson's faithful film adaptations, fans of The Lord of the Rings will find familiarity in this real-time strategy sequel.
The Battle for Middle-Earth 2 offers both a good and evil campaign, featuring skilled voice acting, including contributions from some members of the original cast. The game presents a captivating narrative that is sure to delight fans. Additionally, players can choose from six playable factions, allowing them to lead various iconic fantasy races from Tolkien's world.
Dungeons & Dragons: Dragonshard
Even though it received praise from critics upon its 2005 release, Dungeons & Dragons: Dragonshard often goes unnoticed in contemporary gaming circles. This is surprising given its inventive dual-layer structure, which likely played a role in shaping the design of games like Dungeons 3.
On the surface, Dragonshard appears as a conventional RTS game. However, to obtain crucial resources, players must lead small groups of elite heroes into the dungeons beneath the map. This distinctive approach provides a dynamic RTS experience, capturing elements reminiscent of the tabletop game.
Stronghold Legends
The latest installment in the esteemed Stronghold series introduced fantasy elements into the franchise's typically medieval real-time strategy games. Stronghold Legends features three distinct factions, each with unique units like frost giants and werewolves.
Additionally, the game draws inspiration from medieval folklore, incorporating figures like the Knights of the Round Table and crafting campaigns around characters such as King Arthur, Siegfried, and Vlad Dracula. While retaining the castle simulation gameplay from its predecessors, Stronghold Legends infuses the game with a dose of much-needed playfulness through these fantasy elements.
Kohan 2: Kings Of War
Awarded “Top 10 Game of 2004” by Computer Games Magazine, Kohan II: Kings of War returns players to the dangerous beauty of Khaldun, where the brief respite in the timeless war between Light and Shadow has come to its end.
This classic real-time strategy game showcases six diverse fantasy races, each possessing distinctive strengths and weaknesses. The choice of race influences players' economic choices, as each race has specific resource needs.
Additionally, Kohan 2: Kings of War incorporates factions, each offering unique advantages. Certain races can select from specific factions, enhancing the game's diversity. These varied races and factions contribute to the rich world-building of Kohan 2, making the most of its unique fantasy backdrop.
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