Playing strategy games can improve strategic thinking skills while having fun. The article suggests the top 10 strategy games for enhancing such skills. The games include Chess, Civilization VI, Starcraft II, XCOM 2, Europa Universalis IV, Company of Heroes 2, Total War: Warhammer II, Advance Wars, The Banner Saga, and Into the Breach. Each game has its unique storyline, game mechanics, and objectives. From classic games like Chess to modern ones like The Banner Saga, these games offer players fun and engaging ways to improve their strategic thinking abilities.
The Top 10 Strategy Games to Enhance Your Strategic Thinking Skills
Strategic thinking is an important ability that everyone needs to have, regardless of their profession, interests, or hobbies. The good news is that there are many games that can help you improve your strategic thinking skills while having fun at the same time. In this article, we have selected the top 10 strategy games that you can play on your computer or mobile device to enhance your strategic thinking skills.
1. Chess
Chess is a classic game that has been played for centuries, and it is still one of the most popular strategy games in the world. It involves planning, analysis, and visualization, and it can help you improve your ability to anticipate and calculate multiple moves ahead. Chess is available online, and there are many websites and apps that offer free or paid access to chess games and tutorials.
2. Civilization VI
Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game that allows you to build and manage a civilization from ancient times to the modern era. You have to make strategic decisions on resource management, technological advancements, trade, diplomacy, and military tactics. The game is available on PC, Mac, and mobile devices, and it offers a multiplayer mode that allows you to compete or collaborate with other players.
3. Starcraft II
Starcraft II is a real-time strategy game set in a sci-fi universe, where you have to build and control an army of futuristic units to defeat your enemies. The game requires quick thinking, resource management, and tactical coordination, and it can help you improve your ability to handle complex situations under time pressure. Starcraft II is available on PC and Mac, and it has a vibrant competitive scene with many professional players and tournaments.
4. XCOM 2
XCOM 2 is a turn-based strategy game that puts you in charge of a squad of soldiers who have to defend Earth against an alien invasion. The game requires you to manage your resources, research new technologies, train and equip your soldiers, and plan and execute missions with limited resources and high stakes. XCOM 2 is available on PC and consoles, and it has a deep and engaging campaign mode with multiple difficulty levels and mod support.
5. Europa Universalis IV
Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy game that covers the period from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic era, where you can choose to play as any country in the world and shape its destiny. The game offers a vast and complex system of diplomacy, trade, war, and colonization, and it requires you to balance your national interests with the changing global power dynamics. Europa Universalis IV is available on PC, and it has a large and active community that creates and shares mods and scenarios.
6. Company of Heroes 2
Company of Heroes 2 is a real-time strategy game set in World War II, where you can command armies of the Soviet Union, Germany, or the United States and engage in intense battles across different terrains and weather conditions. The game requires you to adapt to changing situations, use tactics and terrain to your advantage, and manage your resources and units effectively. Company of Heroes 2 is available on PC, and it has a competitive scene with many tournaments and leagues.
7. Total War: Warhammer II
Total War: Warhammer II is a turn-based and real-time strategy game that combines the fantasy world of Warhammer with the gameplay mechanics of the Total War series. You can choose to play as one of the four main factions, each with its unique units, heroes, and abilities, and fight for control of the magical vortex that holds the world together. The game requires you to master both the grand strategy of empire management and the tactical battles of army command. Total War: Warhammer II is available on PC, and it has a rich and immersive world with many lore and story elements.
8. Advance Wars
Advance Wars is a turn-based strategy game that was first released on the Game Boy Advance and later on the Nintendo DS. The game features a colorful and charming art style and a simple yet engaging gameplay system that revolves around capturing cities, building units, and attacking the enemy army. Advance Wars is a great game for beginners or casual players who want to learn the basics of strategy games and have fun.
9. The Banner Saga
The Banner Saga is a turn-based strategy game that combines elements of Norse mythology with a hand-drawn visual style and a choice-driven narrative. The game features a deep and emotional story that follows the path of a caravan of refugees as they try to survive in a harsh and unforgiving world. The game requires you to make tough decisions that affect the morale, supplies, and survival of your people, and to engage in tactical battles with a variety of enemies. The Banner Saga is available on PC, consoles, and mobile devices, and it has been praised for its unique and immersive storytelling.
10. Into the Breach
Into the Breach is a turn-based strategy game that focuses on tactical combat between small squads of mechs and alien monsters. The game features a grid-based movement and attack system that allows you to plan and execute complex maneuvers to outsmart your opponents. The game also has a time-traveling mechanic that enables you to reset the timeline and replay a turn to avoid or mitigate damage. Into the Breach is available on PC and Nintendo Switch, and it has won many awards for its innovative and addictive gameplay.
Conclusion
Playing strategy games can be a fun and effective way to enhance your strategic thinking skills and improve your ability to plan, anticipate, and execute complex tasks. The games we have listed here are just a sample of the many options available, and we encourage you to explore and try out different games to find the ones that best suit your interests and goals. So, grab your favorite device, choose a game, and let the strategy begin!