Numerous classic real-time strategy (RTS) campaigns have graced the PC gaming world, and nowadays, it's rare to find an RTS release without competitive aspects. Popular titles like Halo Wars 2, Dawn of War III, and Empires Apart prioritize multiplayer experiences, investing significant effort into enhancing that aspect. However, a recent trend has emerged, exemplified by games like They Are Billions and Frostpunk, indicating a renewed focus on singleplayer gameplay.

In this celebration of exceptional singleplayer RTS campaigns, we can't help but revisit some renowned giants in the genre, such as Relic, Blizzard, and Westwood. These developers have consistently demonstrated their commitment to world-building and storytelling, resulting in captivating campaigns of exceptional quality. But alongside these well-known titles, let's shine a light on some lesser-known gems that may have flown under the radar for some players.

1. Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault

Company of Heroes 2: Ardennes Assault recounts the Battle of the Bulge from the perspective of four commanders, three of whom are playable characters. Each commander possesses a unique backstory and personality, influencing the forces under their command. What sets Ardennes Assault apart is the depth and challenging nature of its meta-layer map. Instead of trying to emulate the political layer found in Total War games, this campaign keeps battles at the forefront. The use of reinforcements creates rewards and consequences, as defeated enemies can retreat to reinforce territories you have yet to capture, thereby making subsequent missions more challenging. You can choose to cut off these retreating enemies by maneuvering your forces on the map, but doing so may mean sacrificing time-critical missions. The intricacies of this system make it a campaign style that is worth emulating in future games.

The mission design in Ardennes Assault is diverse, ranging from defensive line holds to standard control point captures. The finale stands out as memorable without venturing into the realm of over-the-top ridiculousness, a trap that some final missions can fall into. (Note: The next campaign, Battle for Dune, also has the potential to fit this description.)

2. Battle Realms

Battle Realms, a 2001 RTS developed by Liquid Entertainment, deserves recognition among advanced combat system discussions in the genre. Games like Dawn of War, Men of War, Company of Heroes, and WarCraft 3 often dominate these conversations, but Battle Realms brings unique and enjoyable gameplay twists. For instance, players can level up peasants to any combat unit, trade one resource (water) to replenish another (rice), switch units dynamically between ranged and melee combat, and utilize a novel Yin/Yang system for upgrades.

Though the campaign's cutscenes appear dated as they are rendered in-game, the core formula remains fresh even in 2018. Players can assume the role of the Serpent Clan or the stalwart Dragons, following the exiled hero Kenji's journey to restore his chosen clan's dominance. One of the strengths of Battle Realms lies in its emphasis on player choice throughout the campaign. The game allows you to decide the territory and scenarios you wish to take on next, with victories in battles providing bonuses that carry over to future missions, introducing a sense of persistence across the campaign.

3. Emperor: Battle for Dune

Emperor: Battle for Dune secures its place on this list due to its exceptional story presentation, memorable characters, and replayability, making it a standout title. Westwood took the Command & Conquer formula and infused it with the quirky charm of the 1984 Dune movie. The campaign adopts a Risk-style territory map, where players must engage in battles against two AI Houses to gain control of the planet Arrakis. While the game primarily revolves around desert warfare, occasional story-progression missions set on different planets like Caladan or Spacing Guild Heighlighers offer a refreshing change of scenery. Additionally, players have the option to ally with or combat Minor Houses, adding variety to each playthrough. Emperor: Battle for Dune, along with Ardennes Assault, remains the gold standard for a captivating meta-campaign. Furthermore, it stands alongside Red Alert 2 as a prime example of enjoyable campiness in real-time strategy gaming.

4. Dawn of War: Dark Crusade

Dawn of War: Dark Crusade introduces two fascinating and entertaining factions, the Necrons and the Tau, to the world of RTS gaming. While these factions already hold intrigue within the Warhammer 40,000 lineup, their inclusion in the context of RTS elevates the experience to a new level.

Among the strategic campaigns featured in this list, Dark Crusade's iteration stands out for several reasons. Territories grant access to unique customizations that can significantly impact your approach to the game. Furthermore, the order in which you acquire these customizations can vary depending on the faction's starting location, adding a layer of strategic decision-making. The game also allows you to apply wargear to your chosen leader as you progress, offering a rewarding sense of growth and progression, even in the absence of a deeply intricate story beyond the perpetual warfare of the Warhammer universe.

Dark Crusade incorporates other thoughtful touches as well, like preserving your base after winning a province, a feature that many players appreciate but would like to see more often in RTS games. Additionally, the Honor Guard for faction leaders introduces another engaging and persistent element to the campaign.

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After a lengthy period of anticipation, Minecraft Legends has finally arrived, expanding the Minecraft world by combining real-time strategy and open-world adventure. As a courageous hero, you will guide a powerful army of minions on a mission to defeat the evil Piglins. With a diverse array of unit types and breathtaking landscapes, this game will keep you alert, especially at night when hostile enemies emerge from the darkness.

This guide will highlight the crucial importance of strategic planning and assist you in maximizing the unique abilities of your units. You will learn how to utilize mounts to gain a tactical edge on the battlefield, as well as explore various techniques for managing resources and constructing bases. Additionally, you will gain proficiency in advanced tactics like flanking, multi-pronged attacks, and effective team coordination to secure victory. Let's get started!

General Tips

Exploit biome-specific resources

To gather resources effectively, it's crucial to understand the types of ores and materials available on the map. The following tips can help you make the most of each biome:

• Redstone: If you need Redstone for crafting devices and contraptions, search for it in jungles and swamps. Look for exposed veins on the surface or in caves at the edges of these biomes to locate Redstone more easily.
• Iron: Forest biomes are rich in iron, which is necessary for crafting tools, weapons, and armor. To find iron, explore caves or exposed cliff faces within the forest biome.
• Coal: Coal, a crucial resource for crafting torches and smelting, is abundant in badlands and meadow biomes. Surface deposits of coal can be found, or you can dig shallow tunnels to uncover coal veins.
• Diamonds: Precious diamonds, used to craft powerful weapons, armor, and summoning skeletons, are primarily found in tundra biomes. They're usually located deep underground, so be prepared to mine extensively in tundra biomes.

Why should you use Mount units?

When choosing a mount in Minecraft Legends, it's crucial to consider how their abilities will complement your gameplay strategy. Consider the terrain and obstacles you may face during a match and select a mount that can help you navigate those challenges more effectively.

• Stamina Management: To avoid being stranded mid-air, keep track of your mount's stamina. Plan your route to land periodically, allowing your mount to recover stamina.
• High Ground Advantage: Use your mount's hovering ability to explore elevated areas effortlessly, providing you access to resources that may be challenging to reach on foot.
• Quick Escapes: In case you encounter dangerous mobs or players, use your mount's speed and hovering abilities to make a quick escape and avoid unnecessary confrontations.
• Mounts for Exploration: Having a hovering mount can significantly enhance your exploration experience. Hovering across the world allows you to move faster and cover more ground, making it easier to locate the ores and resources you need.

Pick the right Mount

While powerful mount abilities can be advantageous, it's important to consider that these abilities mainly impact you, the player, and not your army. When devising your strategy, consider how your chosen mount's abilities can be used in conjunction with your army's strengths to create a well-rounded approach.

• The horse mount, which is available at the start of the game, lacks any special abilities, but it remains a reliable and swift means of transportation. Despite not offering any additional advantages, it can still be a suitable choice for players who prioritize their army and strategy.
• The visually impressive Regal Tiger, a purple saber-toothed tiger, offers potential benefits, such as a health boost.
• The Tropical Bird's unique gliding ability can be particularly useful for navigating the map and accessing hard-to-reach areas. Although this ability may not directly benefit your army, it can help you scout the terrain, spot enemy movements, and plan your strategies more effectively.

Unlock hidden abilities and recipes

Here are some tips to help you discover and master the various upgrades, abilities, and recipes in Minecraft Legends:

• Rewards for Exploration: During your exploration, look out for hidden chests, dungeons, or temples. These locations may contain valuable items, recipes, or even new abilities that can give you an edge in your gameplay.
• Trading with NPCs: Trading resources with NPCs in villages or settlements can grant you access to unique recipes or abilities. By building good relationships with these characters, you may also uncover new opportunities for upgrades and bonuses.
• Experimentation: Combine different items or resources in your crafting table to discover new recipes. Trying out various combinations may lead to powerful upgrades or unique items, allowing you to further enhance your gameplay.

Multiplayer PVP tips

Roles adaptability

While each team member is assigned a specific role at the start of the match, it's important to encourage adaptability and flexibility. Being comfortable with switching roles during gameplay can make your team more dynamic and better equipped to respond to unexpected challenges.

Dynamic Strategy Development

As the game progresses, it's crucial to continuously evaluate and adjust your strategy. Utilize newly acquired resources, upgrades, and discoveries to pivot and take advantage of evolving opportunities. Effective communication and collaboration among team members are key to making these adjustments successfully.

Get to know the Terrain and Map

To improve your gameplay, learn about different terrain types and how they impact your gameplay tactics. Plan your strategies based on the map's geography, including gathering resources, troop movements, and attacks. Knowing where mounts and valuable resources spawn can help you work more efficiently.

Effective Resource Management

To optimize your team's performance, distribute resources among your teammates strategically. Allocate resources to support both offensive and defensive roles, ensuring that the entire team is equipped to handle any situation.

Try out different defensive tactics

Test out different defensive designs and layouts to create a tougher base to penetrate. Consider choke points, decoy walls, and traps to delay and mislead enemy mobs. Build elevated platforms and towers to provide your defenders with better visibility.

Use mounts strategically

Select mounts that align with your strategy and role. Swap mounts as needed to optimize their effectiveness in different circumstances. For instance, use the Regal Tiger for quick hit-and-run maneuvers or the Parrot for scouting out resources and aerial reconnaissance.

Coordinate Attacks

Work with your team to coordinate and synchronize attacks from multiple fronts, which can be more effective in breaking down the enemy's defenses. Divide your mobs into smaller groups and assign them to attack different areas of the enemy base simultaneously to create chaos and disorder.

Exploit Environmental Hazards

Take advantage of natural hazards like red thorns to impede your enemies. Use them tactically to create obstacles and make your opponents take longer routes.

Timing and Coordination

Coordinate the movements and attacks of your team for maximum impact. For instance, launch attacks at night when Piglins are stronger or synchronize your offensive strikes with your teammates' defensive rotations to optimize your chances of success.

Effective Healing Strategy

Be aware of your health status and healing options. Take advantage of the Carpenter Hub for faster healing when defending and retreat strategically to recover health when on the offensive. This approach will keep you prepared for action at all times.

Proactive Communication

Be proactive in communicating with your team by keeping them updated on your actions, resource requirements, and the enemy's movements. Use pings to draw attention to critical locations or request assistance from your teammates.

Targeted Offensive Priorities

During an offensive, focus on attacking key structures such as the Carpenter Hub and Improvement Hubs, to weaken their defenses and block their access to vital resources. By doing so, it will be easier to take down their Well of Fates and emerge victorious.

Adapting to the Enemy's Tactics

Keep a close eye on the tactics employed by your opponents and be ready to adapt your strategy accordingly. Take advantage of their weaknesses and neutralize their strengths.

Deny Resources

Take control of or destroy the resource-generating structures of your opponents to prevent them from acquiring vital resources. This will impede their progress and make them vulnerable.

Efficient Piglin Management

Concentrate on seizing and improving Piglin structures to gain valuable resources and strong mob companions. Utilize your understanding of the terrain to strategize your Piglin conquests and outmaneuver your rivals.

Collaborative Teamwork

Foster a strong sense of unity and collaboration among team members. Share resources, provide assistance to one another during attacks and defense, and synchronize your actions to achieve the greatest possible outcome. A well-synchronized team will be much more effective than a collection of individuals.

>>> Read more: List Of All Wood Blocks In Minecraft 1.20, Ranked

Roguelike games are quite demanding, where players explore caves and dungeons to seek out excitement and treasure. But in my version of roguelikes, the dungeons are created randomly and once a player dies, it's permanent, adding a touch of nervousness that makes the game more challenging compared to other role-playing games. Although it's a specialized category, the followers are devoted. Roguelikes are distinctive from other games, and here are the finest rogue-like dungeon crawlers for Android.

1. Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a modern game in the roguevania genre and it's very impressive. It boasts a vast interconnected world (the 'vania' part), 2D platformer and action elements, non-linear progression, and more. The game comes with hardware controller support, multiple software controller options, and an auto-hit mode, which is ideal for those who prefer to focus on exploration. The playable character is quite remarkable and the game is quite expansive.

However, this mobile version is a bit outdated compared to its PC counterpart, so some necessary adjustments have not been implemented. Players should expect challenging gameplay since it's a tough game. Dead Cells can be purchased for $8.99, without any in-app purchases or ads. It's also available for free on Google Play Pass, if you're subscribed to it.

2. OneBit Adventure

OneBit Adventure is a less intense roguelike game, which may not attract the hardcore players. The game provides a range of character classes to choose from, such as warrior, wizard, necromancer, archer, thief, and others. It utilizes turn-based combat with user-friendly controls that allow for single-handed gameplay.

As players progress, they can find gear to enhance their chances of winning, as well as unlock active and passive skills. The game features infinite level creation, leaderboards, boss battles, and other exciting elements. Although the game has some drawbacks, overall, it has more advantages than disadvantages.

3. Pathos

Pathos is an older game in the roguelike genre with graphics that are below average, even compared to other games of its kind. The controls are a bit more complicated than usual as well. However, the game excels in other areas. It employs a similar gameplay mechanism to Nethack, a classic ASCII roguelike game from the early 1980s. In the game, players descend into the dungeons, defeat the final boss, and escape before dying. The game is completely free and without any advertisements, which is why we appreciate it. Since it's a free game, it's difficult to complain too much about its flaws.

4. Hoplite

Hoplite is an older and widely known dungeon crawler that provides a somewhat more strategic gaming experience by employing turn-based movement and attacking. Apart from this, it follows the classic roguelike game style with randomly created dungeons, leaderboards, Google Play Games achievements, user-friendly controls, and a considerable level of difficulty. Although the basic game has just over twenty-five levels, there are many unique missions and other content to keep players occupied. If players opt for the premium version, it is relatively low-priced. Google Play Pass subscribers can also access this game for free.

5. Caves

Caves is a highly sought-after mobile game in the roguelike dungeon crawler category. It closely follows the standard criteria, where players navigate through randomly produced dungeons, gather diverse treasures and equipment, overcome numerous foes, and more. The game has a classic, old-fashioned appearance, but the controls are satisfactory and the gameplay is pretty engaging and challenging. Players are also given a primary base that includes a cloning station. This game is not simple and is available at a relatively low cost.

6. Endurance (and Ailment)

Endurance is a dungeon crawler in the rogue-like genre that features a top-down shooter style of gameplay. The game is packed with numerous enemies to defeat, various items to gather, and a compelling story to follow. As a player, you explore the Endurance to uncover the reason behind people's madness. Ailment, another game in this category, is a sequel to Endurance and is also worth trying. For the optimum storyline effect, it is recommended to try Ailment first. Both games offer a free-to-play option, with an opportunity to upgrade to a permanent premium version via in-app purchases.

7. ReversEstory

ReversEstory is a game that combines rogue-like shooting with elements of action and bullet hell. The 2D platformer mechanics are a surprisingly enjoyable addition as you navigate through the different sections of the game while shooting your way through enemies. The boss battles are challenging but entertaining, and the game's graphics and overall style are charming. Additionally, players can obtain various equipment, and the game allows you to fly around freely, adding to the fun. The bullet-hell aspect of the game increases the level of intensity, making it more challenging than typical rogue-like games. Overall, ReversEstory is an enjoyable game. It is available for free with Google Play Pass, but in-app purchases are still available.

8. Soda Dungeon 2

Soda Dungeon 2 leans more towards being a dungeon crawler rather than a roguelike. The objective is to get to the end of Soda Dungeon by using turn-based combat mechanics, collecting loot, fighting bosses, and other standard RPG dungeon-crawling elements. However, it also includes some unique features that enhance the gameplay. For instance, players can earn rewards in the background like in an idle game, and they can use the Soda Script function to control their AI teammates more precisely. Although it is not a typical roguelike, it's a solid dungeon crawler with enjoyable gameplay.

9. Yet Another Pixel Dungeon

Yet Another Pixel Dungeon is a highly traditional roguelike game available on mobile devices. It is a derivative of the original Pixel Dungeon game and is one of several similar games available in the app store. The game is favored for its active development, multiple features, and options for players. It includes four character classes, four levels of difficulty, an assortment of loot and equipment to acquire, and a dynamic environment that can affect gameplay. It is considered the best version of all the Pixel Dungeon games and is highly recommended. However, if you search for Pixel Dungeon in the app store, you can find several other versions to try as well.

10. Space Grunts 2

Space Grunts 2 is a roguelike game with a twist - it includes card collection mechanics that replace your traditional tools and loot. As you progress through the game, you can collect various cards to play during strategic moments to overcome obstacles. While the gameplay mechanics are similar to other roguelikes, the inclusion of the card collection adds a unique element to the game. Despite not being very popular, the game was enjoyable to play. Unlike many mobile games, there are no in-app purchases or ads, but it does cost $3.99 to download.

>>> Read more: Top 10 Best PC Games Ported To Android (2023)

The gaming industry has always been preferring the Western theme when it comes to RTS games. For example, you can easily find a game that tells the medieval story like Lornsword Winter Chronicle, or World War II in Europe such as Land of War: The Beginning.

Hence, we have very few chances to find a strategy game that portray the battle taken place in the Far East. This somehow turns the Eastern battlefield into a great concept, and Stronghold: Warlords is the latest one to take this theme into its goods.

The game was first announced back in E3 2019, and it's coming to PC very soon. Below is the newest trailer of Stronghold: Warlords, showcasing the soldiers of Vietnamese and Chinese unit, which you can have a look to see its characteristics:

Overview on Stronghold: Warlords

Stronghold: Warlords is the next 'castle-sim RTS' game in the Stronghold series. This time, it will portray the ancient war in the Far East, featuring 4 regions including Japanese, Chinese, Mongolian and Vietnam. Your task in this game is very simple: build your Stronghold and deploy troops to siege others'.

To be your specific, you can step into the epic leader of many races - from Genghis Khan's leading troops of Mongol horseman to the Shogun of samurai clansmen. For the first time in the series, you can recruit 'Warlords" - the leader of your troops. They have their distinctive characteristic and certain power that brings certain abilities and power to your army. Those powers are upgradable and the more prosperous your castle is, the more powerful they'll become.

In order to develop your castle, you'll have to manage the industry, including applying taxation to gain some money. Using the money and resources you've collected, you then will fortify your borders and develop advanced weapons, equip it to your troops and start invading the others'. Stronghold: Warlords has 3 different play modes, including campaign, skirmish and multiplayer, which you can enjoy at your will.

Deep strategic elements with many kinds of units

In order to protect and expand your territories, you'll have to precisely deploy your troops consist of certain units. Each kind of unit is useful in certain situations, such as the light and small troops for small and surprise skirmishes, or the heavily-armored ones for large-scale sieging. The trailer above has shown the units from Vietnamese and Chinese.

To be more specific, the Vietnamese units are the Spear Tribesman and Blowpipe Tribesman that takes the inspiration from the first Vietnamese military troops back in the 300th century BC. They're cheap to deploy, and due to their light equipment, they attack very fast and very mobile. However, due to their short-range and low-damage, they'll take forever to siege down castles, so you should consider choosing other types for that task.

The Chinese units are much more diverse, which are mainly separated into two categories: The Auxiliary and the Imperial.

First of all, the Auxiliary category consists of two types - the Archers and the Axemen. The Archers shine when it comes to defending your troops, since they're light-armored and can deliver rains of arrows if you put them into the right spot to make use of their far range. Additionally, they can also deploy traps to prevent your opponents from approaching your territories - a perfect method of preemption.

The Axeman is on the opposite sides, as they excel at low-range combat. They wear heavy armors, so they're very tanky, being able to stand on the front lines and absorbing the damage for the fragile backline. They're also good at defending too since your opponents won't have a great time passing the gate that they're holding.

The Imperial type is much more expensive, and they need a longer time to make as well. Including Bannermen and Crossbowmen, they'll pay off their cost by the ability to deal tons of damage and have a lot of health to tank damage. They're definitely a must when it comes to attacking.

Release date

Above are only two of the race that you can deploy in Stronghold: Warlords. At launch, the game will include the Japanese and Mongolian troops as well, and information about them is likely to come in the near future.

Stronghold: Warlords will come out for PC via Steam in 2020.

To see an RTS game with a suitable amount of micromanagement is very rare, but A Year Of Rain is definitely one of the best at doing so. It's a brand new real-time strategy game with a respectable fragment of MOBA games from Daedalic Entertainment, and the game is raining on Steam Early Access now.

Revealed back in this June, A Year Of Rain is the studio's most ambitious project that wants to replicate the success of the classic games, such as Warcraft 3. You can see how similar and different two games are through A Year Of Rain's trailer below:

The story of A Year Of Rain

A Year Of Rain takes place in a fantasy world, where resources are very limited, but there are a lot of people desperate to get them.  To be more specific, the severe environment and endless wars have tortured the land, and now everyone has to fight to live for every single day. But the more war people's make, the more damage the land will get.

Hence, people are stuck in the limbo of fighting and dying. Fortunately, in the middle of this chaos, there are two friends that want to break this loop and bring peace back to the land. A soldier of the morning sun and a son of a mighty royal clan - will this combination enough to put a stop to this endless war?

Gameplay features

As I've mentioned, A Year Of Rain is a real-time strategy game, in which you will become the leader of one in three factions. They're House Rupah, the Wild Banners and the Restless Regiment, and each of them has its distinctive elements.

For example, House Rupah is very wealthy and wants to bring civilization to the land as they rule, while the Wild Banners are on literally the opposite front, as they want to live as they've always been naturally. The last one, the Restless Regiment is the army of tribals warlords, soldiers and doesn't care about the thing that the other two called "home".

The gameplay of A Year Of Rain is very similar to Warcraft 3: send minions to gather resources, build up some constructions and recruiting troops to protect and conquer the land. All constructions and units are upgradable, which will add more power to your factions.

Furthermore, this game also brings the MOBA-style characters into the land as well. They'll lead your army to the battle, and provide a brand new sky of strategies to the battles. At the beginning of every match, you can choose your suitable playstyle from the Tank, the Damage Dealer, and the Support. This role will not only give certain buffs for your hero and some exclusive abilities but also give your teammate a clearer look at what task you'll take care of in battles.

Speaking about teammate, you can also invite another friend in to help you with the conquer. This game is designed to best-played by a team of two, which gives you more time to focus on certain tasks. But if you're alone, that's not the problem, as the AI will help you deploy armies following your broad plan.

Out now for Steam Early Access

At this moment, you can try the RTS-MOBA game with the Early Access version on Steam. The developer Daedalic Entertainment is running a 20% discount on A Year Of Rain, which cuts its price to only $19.99.

If you opt to purchase this game now, you can upgrade to the full version for free when it comes out. Enjoy!

The developer Solid Clouds has primed their upcoming MMORTS game - Starborne as the most ambitious PC strategy title of years, and they have a great reason for it. Starborne is a space strategy game, in which you can make your name remember by building your empire and conquer the universe!

Below is the trailer showcasing the gorgeous visuals as well as tons of things that you can do in Starborne. You can have a look down here:

Overview of Starborne

As I've mentioned, Starborne is an MMORTS game - which puts thousands of players into the same universe, planning and building their empire. It's the brainchild from Solid Clouds - the developer that consists of several former creators behind Eve Online. They've been working on Starborne for over six years, and it's time to put it to the limelight!

The concept of this game is quite simple: you start with your base in space and start to expand your territory over the vast universe. There are six specializations that you can choose from, each of which has unique skills and playstyles. Your task is to become the biggest power in this galaxy and make name remembered throughout the times.

In order to do that, you'll have to gather resources to build up your empire from systems of construction. Building fleets, broadening your borders, and fulfill missions to pillage planets to fuel your economy. Not only the resources but also the room of the galaxy are limited - so, conflicts are unavoidable.

There will be times that you encounter other enemies through your expanding progress. At those moments, you have two choices to react to. The first one is to sabotage their fleets with your firepowers. If you choose this approach, you'll head into the epic RTS battles, commanding your ships to outgun your opponents with certain strategies. To be more specific, you'll have to carefully plan when is the time to strike, which fleets will be useful in which battles, and co-operate with your allies for the most unexpected flank.

The second one is much softer - solving the conflicts through diplomatic means. You can offer other players with resource exchanging and also form an alliance, peacefully developing without interfering with others' situations. However, the diplomatic landscape in space is very fragile, and you must always be aware of your back!

Alpha available now, beta is coming soon

If you're interested in Starborne after the images and the information above, you can try the game right this moment through its alpha stage. It's completely free and available for everyone that would like to become a part of this vast galaxy, so you don't have to rely on luck or anything.

The steps are very simple - just head to its official site - create an account and you're good to go! The game will be refresh once a week in its alpha stage - and the next one is happening on November 7. It's very crucial to get a fresh start - since you might not catch up with the progress that the previous player has made with their empire.

The open beta of Starborne will start at an unspecified date in the first quarter of 2020, and we will not be likely to see the official launch of the game soon. So, if you're really into this MMORTS game, don't hesitate to get in right now!

Rumors have been going around for some time about IGG’s next game, but the studio has remained tight-lipped about the follow-up to its hit strategy game Lords Mobile, until now.

It has recently been announced that the next game from IGG– its first in 3 years – is titled Mobile Royale, and it will be a real-time strategy MMO. The game is expected to come out in early 2019.

 
Mobile Royale Trailer

Mobile Royale will have you developing a city and establishing trade links with others, joining guilds and alliances, and of course, fighting. There are many different types of troops for you to train to build an invincible army.

The game will only have one single server, so everyone can play together. It even has a real-time language translation feature, so there should be no barrier in term of communication.

IGG has definitely put a lot of work in the visuals of Mobile Royale, with all the details from giant airships to soaring forts, rendered in beautiful 3D.

The lore is there too. The developer has done a great job of designing the rich fantasy world of Vollandia, which is occupied by five races. These races include some of the traditional ones you often see in fantasy games such as humans, elves, and dwarves. It’s also full of monsters that you can hunt to get resources and crafting equipment.

The clash of clans

The world is in turmoil with the Clan War taking place. This great conflict involves 10 clans, each with its own backgrounds and reasons to fight for domination. You can choose to participate in different campaigns, which will let you get into the story from more than one perspective.

And conveniently enough, a Guardian Dragon has decided to join your cause, and it will be a great help both on and off the battlefield.

Amongst all this chaos, you have total freedom to choose who will be your friends and who enemies, creating your own story into the universe of Mobile Royale in the process.

Pre-register now

Right now, pre-registration for Mobile Royale is open in various countries: India, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, the Philippines, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Netherlands, and Sweden. If you’re interested, follow the game’s official Facebook page to get updated immediately when there is new information regarding the release date.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Tides of War first came to Google Play and the App Store in early 2017. Developed by Joycity, this is a pretty familiar title to fans of multiplayer strategy battle games, and as the name implies, it is based on the Disney movie series Pirates of the Caribbean.

 
Pirates of the Caribbean: Tides of War Launch Trailer

For those who don’t know about the title, Pirates of the Caribbean: Tides of War is a real-time strategy game in which you can build your own pirate haven. Throughout the game, you can recruit notorious pirates, including many characters from the movies, to join your fleet, embark on epic quests, battle legendary monsters and fearsome foes to become the master of the seven seas.

The game just received a massive update this week, which brings a lot of new content. The first notable addition is a new character: Captain Armando Salazar, the main antagonist of the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie. This legendary pirate hunter also comes with the Silent Mary, his beloved ship. Furthermore, Salazar possesses many powerful abilities and an unquenchable thirst for vengeance (which is honestly something you should expect of a movie bad guy at this point).

Another interesting new feature is the Alliance Battle. This allows in-game alliances (similar to guilds, clans, or teams in other games) to battle against one another. All participants will earn a special currency called Honor Points, which can be exchanged for a lot of good stuff at the in-game market.

Furthermore, the Pirate Halls and Weapon Workshops can now be upgraded to S Level 3 (the new highest level). The Monster Cage has also been improved and will now allow players to see the details of their monsters before releasing them back to sea. A new tier 3 Tactician, Malik Bolston, has been added as well.

So, if you have not tried Pirates of the Caribbean: Tides of War, or haven’t come back to it in a while, now is a great time to do so. Not only is there new content, but there is also a December Attendance Event which gives special rewards to players who log in seven days this month.  You can get it on Google Play or the App Store for free. For more information, visit the game’s official Facebook page.

If you are a brain-over-brawl type of guy (or girl), then you probably are an enthusiastic fan of strategy games. But if you are too busy to play on PC/console, don’t worry, since there are also many great options available on mobile. From turn-based to real-time, large-scale battles to peaceful city-building, everything is right there in your pocket!

Here is a list of the best strategy games of 2018 on Android:

Best turn-based strategy games

This is a genre for those who like to take time to make the most strategic decisions. In order to come out on top, you will always have to think ahead of your opponent(s), sometimes more than one step.

When talking about mobile strategy games, of course the first name that has to be mentioned is the legendary X-COM, as it is arguably the best game of the genre.

Meanwhile, Epic Little War Game is another title worth noting with large scale battles similar to the Civilization series.

The Battle of Polytopia is also a game that draws inspiration from Civilization. This game will have you play as the leader of a tribe whose task is to build a powerful civilization while competing with other tribes.

The Banner Saga, while not strictly a strategy game, demands a lot of strategic thinking from the player’s part, since every choice will affect the personal story of the main character, as well as the state of the entire world.

The last one on this list is Final Fantasy Tactics, a strategy RPG that is among the best of its genre on mobile. The original version of the game, which came out on PlayStation in 1997, managed to sell over 2.4 million copies all over the world.

Best real-time strategy games

Real-time strategy is the genre for people who like to micromanage and improvise in the heat of things. While they might not require the same kind of reflexes as, say, a shooter game, players will still have to think fast and react to difficult situations.

The first name on the list of best Android RTS game is Clash of Clans, the pioneer of the genre on mobile. Clash Royale, from the same developer, also brings an excellent RTS experience.

Then there is Mushroom Wars 2, a game similar to Total War but with cutesy graphics. This game will get you involved in the conflicts between four Mushroom tribes, and you, as a valiant Mushroom Commander, will need to choose a hero to lead your army into battle.

If you don’t want to be limited on Earth only, then Iron Marines brings you to numerous planets with its immersive gameplay and outstanding visuals. Courageous soldiers, powerful mechas, and mysterious aliens are all at your disposal.

On the other hand, if you prefer the tower defense genre, then Kingdom Rush Vengeance is the latest addition to the popular tower defense series Kingdom Rush. However, this time you will be playing from the perspective of the bad guy, and control the forces of evil to exact vengeance upon the righteous. The game made some changes in terms of gameplay compared to its predecessor, but is still a true Kingdom Rush game at its core.

Best city building games

City building simulation is probably the most relaxing genre on this list. There is no bloody battle or thrilling adventure. You will simply be building a city and watch it develop. That is not to say games of this genre are not challenging. There are a lot of things to consider when building and managing a city, and tons of stuff will not go according to what you planned.

Pocket City is a title worth checking out if you are a fan of this genre. It lets you play as the mayor of a city, and you can develop it however you wish. You shall have to provide houses for residents, construct various facilities to develop the industry, while dealing with problems such as crimes or natural disasters.

SimCity BuildIt follows the same approach as Pocket City, but it has very impressive graphics. From skyscrapers to factories, everything is beautifully rendered in 3D.

Megapolis is also a notable title, with immersive gameplay and a wide range of features. There are rooms for multiplayer as well.

Township, meanwhile, brings a breath of fresh air to the established formula of the previous games. This one is a hybrid between a city-building and a farming game. You will still be expanding your town, but in order to do so, you have to harvest crops from the farms, process them with different facilities, and sell the completed goods for income.

Or, if you are sick of the modern setting, Townsmen takes you back to the medieval time. Instead of skyscrapers and waterparks, you will be decorating your city with towering statues and magnificent monuments.