Real-time strategy (RTS) games are popular games that require players to manage resources, troops, and technology to gain an edge over an opponent. This article explores the history of RTS gaming from Command & Conquer to Company of Heroes. Command & Conquer, developed in 1995 by Westwood Studios, involved two factions fighting for control of the world’s resources. Starcraft, developed by Blizzard Entertainment in 1998, has a unique unit balance with each faction, allowing the creation of a massive competitive scene. Warcraft III introduced hero units, adding a new layer of strategy, and Company of Heroes focused on realism and tactics during World War II. RTS games remain a staple of gaming, and the future looks bright with the continued success of RTS games like Company of Heroes and the recent release of Age of Empires IV.
Introduction
Real-time strategy games (RTS) are one of the most popular genres in gaming. These games involve fast-paced strategy, where players must manage resources, troops, and technology to gain an advantage over an opponent. This article will explore the history of RTS gaming, from Command & Conquer to Company of Heroes.
Command & Conquer
Command & Conquer is one of the most iconic RTS games of all time. Developed by Westwood Studios and released in 1995, this game has had a lasting impact on the genre. The game was set in a dystopian future where two factions, the Global Defense Initiative and the Brotherhood of Nod, fight for control of the world’s resources.
Players must manage their bases, gather resources, and deploy troops to defeat the enemy. Command & Conquer popularized many RTS gameplay elements, such as fog of war and unit customization. The game’s success spawned a series of sequels, including Command & Conquer: Red Alert and Command & Conquer 3.
Starcraft
Starcraft is another iconic RTS game that was a massive success upon its release in 1998. Developed by Blizzard Entertainment, the game took place in a sci-fi universe where three factions, the Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss, fought for dominance.
What set Starcraft apart from other RTS games was its unique unit balance, with each faction having distinct strengths and weaknesses. The game’s single-player campaign was also highly praised, with a compelling storyline and challenging missions. Starcraft spawned a massive competitive scene, with professional players and tournaments still thriving over 20 years later.
Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
Released in 2002, Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos was another highly successful RTS game developed by Blizzard Entertainment. The game took place in the Warcraft universe, with four factions, the Humans, Orcs, Night Elves, and Undead, battling for control of the world.
The game introduced hero units, which had special abilities and could level up over time. These hero units added a new layer of strategy to the game, as players had to manage both their armies and their hero units. Warcraft III also had a rich lore and immersive single-player campaign, further adding to the game’s appeal.
Company of Heroes
Released in 2006, Company of Heroes is a critically acclaimed RTS game developed by Relic Entertainment. The game takes place during World War II, where players control Allied or Axis forces in battles across Europe.
What sets Company of Heroes apart from other RTS games is its focus on realism and tactics. The game’s cover system allowed players to use the terrain to their advantage, and the resource management mechanics required careful planning and strategy. Company of Heroes also had a highly praised single-player campaign, with memorable characters and intense battles.
Conclusion
Real-time strategy games have been a staple of gaming for decades, with games like Command & Conquer and Starcraft influencing the genre for years to come. With the continued success of games like Company of Heroes and the recent release of Age of Empires IV, the future looks bright for RTS gaming.