The question "How many strategy games are there?" is one that strategy game enthusiasts and developers alike often ponder. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as counting the number of games in a library. Strategy games, much like any other genre, evolve and change over time, making a definitive count challenging.
Strategy games encompass a wide range of genres, from real-time strategy (RTS) to turn-based strategy (TBS), 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate), and grand strategy. Each of these sub-genres can have hundreds of games, making the total number quite substantial.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
Real-time strategy games are known for their fast-paced action and simultaneous resource management. Some of the most popular RTS games include the Command & Conquer series, StarCraft, and Age of Empires.
As of 2021, there are over 500 RTS games available, with more being released each year. This number includes both AAA titles and indie games. The RTS genre has been around since the early 1990s, with games like Dune II and Warcraft: Orcs & Humans laying its foundation.
Popular RTS Series
Many RTS games are part of a series, with each new installment building upon the previous ones. Some of the most popular RTS series include Command & Conquer, StarCraft, Age of Empires, and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War.
Each of these series has multiple games, expansions, and remasters, contributing significantly to the total number of RTS games. For instance, the Command & Conquer series alone has over 20 games, not including spin-offs and remakes.
Indie RTS Games
Indie developers have also made significant contributions to the RTS genre, often bringing fresh perspectives and innovative gameplay mechanics. Games like Grey Goo, Offworld Trading Company, and Bad North: Jotunn Edition are excellent examples of this.
While indie RTS games may not have the same marketing budget as AAA titles, they often bring unique ideas to the table. The indie RTS scene is thriving, with new games being released regularly, further adding to the total count of strategy games.
Turn-Based Strategy (TBS)
Turn-based strategy games, on the other hand, focus more on planning and tactics than real-time action. Games like Civilization, XCOM, and Fire Emblem are popular examples of TBS games.
As of 2021, there are over 400 TBS games available, with new games being released every year. The TBS genre has been around since the 1980s, with games like The Ancient Art of War and Empire! laying its foundation.
4X Strategy Games
4X strategy games are a sub-genre of TBS games that focus on exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination. Games like Stellaris, Endless Legend, and Galactic Civilizations are popular examples of 4X games.
There are over 100 4X games available, with new games being released regularly. The 4X genre has been around since the 1990s, with games like Master of Orion and Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri being some of the earliest examples.
Grand Strategy Games
Grand strategy games are another sub-genre of TBS games that focus on large-scale strategic planning. Games like Europa Universalis, Crusader Kings, and Hearts of Iron are popular examples of grand strategy games.
There are over 150 grand strategy games available, with new games being released regularly. The grand strategy genre has been around since the late 1990s, with games like Civilization II and Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri being some of the earliest examples.
With the constant evolution of gaming platforms and the increasing popularity of strategy games, it's safe to say that the number of strategy games will continue to grow. From the classic RTS games to the innovative indie titles, the strategy gaming landscape is vast and ever-expanding. So, while it's challenging to provide an exact number of strategy games, one thing is certain: there's no shortage of strategic challenges waiting to be conquered.