Strategy game

chess set

Strategy game refers to a genre of video games and board games that emphasize skillful thinking and planning to achieve victory. Specifically, it requires players to manage resources, control territories, and command units or characters, often within a conflict or competition with other players or game-controlled opponents. Strategy games are distinguished by their focus on strategic, tactical, and sometimes logistical challenges. They are typically categorized into two main sub-genres: real-time strategy (RTS) and turn-based strategy (TBS).

Overview

Strategy games often involve a combination of strategic, tactical, and logistical challenges. Players must consider their actions carefully, taking into account the actions of their opponents, the strengths and weaknesses of their own and enemy units, and the layout of the game space. The genre places a significant emphasis on critical thinking and forward planning.

Real-Time Strategy

In real-time strategy games, all players move simultaneously, with actions unfolding in real-time. This sub-genre emphasizes quick decision-making and the ability to manage multiple units and objectives at the same time. Popular examples include StarCraft and Age of Empires.

Turn-Based Strategy

Turn-based strategy games, by contrast, allow players to take turns making their moves. This format gives players more time to think through their actions, making it more about careful planning and less about quick reflexes. Notable examples include the Civilization series and XCOM.

Gameplay Elements

Strategy games typically involve the following gameplay elements:

• Resource Management: Players must efficiently gather and use resources such as money, materials, or in-game currency to build units, structures, and develop technologies.
• Economic Planning: Building and maintaining a strong economy is crucial for producing units and expanding one's territory.
• Unit and Building Construction: Players can construct various types of units and buildings, each with specific functions and advantages.
• Combat: Engaging in combat with enemy forces using a combination of units strategically is a core element of gameplay.
• Territory Control: Expanding and controlling territory is often a key to victory, providing more resources and strategic advantages.
• Technology Research: Researching new technologies can provide significant advantages, including better units, enhanced abilities, and new strategies.

History

The origins of strategy games can be traced back to traditional board games like chess and Go, which have been played for centuries. The genre transitioned to video games in the 1970s and 1980s, with titles like Empire and Civilization laying the groundwork for modern strategy games.

Sub-genres

Beyond the main RTS and TBS categories, strategy games can be further divided into sub-genres, including:

• 4X Games: Standing for explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate, these games, like Civilization, focus on controlling an empire.
• Grand Strategy Games: These involve controlling a nation or empire, focusing on military, economic, and diplomatic aspects. Examples include Europa Universalis and Hearts of Iron.
• Tower Defense: A sub-genre where the goal is to defend a territory or possessions by obstructing enemy attackers, often through the placement of defensive structures.
• MOBA: Multiplayer online battle arena games, like League of Legends, combine real-time strategy with role-playing elements.

Impact and Legacy

Strategy games have had a significant impact on the video game industry, influencing the development of various genres and leading to the creation of esports competitions, particularly for RTS games like StarCraft II. They have also been used for educational purposes, helping to teach critical thinking, resource management, and strategic planning.

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