What is strategy game?

A strategy game is a broad genre of video games (and other games) where players make decisions and execute plans to achieve a specific goal.

Here's what makes a game a strategy game:

* Focus on Planning and Decision-Making: Players are constantly making choices that affect the long-term outcome of the game. This often involves resource management, unit allocation, and building structures.

* Goal-Oriented Gameplay: Strategy games have a clear objective, whether it's conquering your enemies, building the best civilization, managing an economy, or completing a specific task.

* Emphasis on Strategy, Not Reflexes: Unlike action games, strategy games emphasize thoughtful planning and long-term thinking over quick reflexes.

* Variety in Gameplay: Strategy games cover a wide range of gameplay styles, from real-time strategy (RTS) to turn-based strategy (TBS), grand strategy, and 4X games.

Examples of Strategy Game Subgenres:

* Real-time Strategy (RTS): Players manage units and resources in real time, often competing against other players or AI opponents. Examples: StarCraft, Age of Empires, Warcraft III

* Turn-Based Strategy (TBS): Players take turns making moves, with each turn representing a discrete time period. Examples: Civilization, XCOM, Fire Emblem

* Grand Strategy: Players manage large-scale empires or civilizations, typically spanning many years or centuries. Examples: Crusader Kings III, Europa Universalis IV, Victoria 3

* 4X Games: A common type of grand strategy game that focuses on four core gameplay loops: explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate. Examples: Stellaris, Civilization, Endless Space 2

* Puzzle Strategy: Games that combine strategic thinking with puzzle elements. Examples: Tetris, Sokoban, Minesweeper

Why Play Strategy Games?

* Develop Strategic Thinking Skills: Strategy games encourage players to think ahead, anticipate consequences, and adapt to changing situations.

* Promote Problem-Solving Abilities: Players need to devise effective strategies to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

* Boost Creativity: Strategy games often allow for diverse approaches and solutions, fostering creativity and innovation.

* Provide a Sense of Accomplishment: Achieving victory in a strategy game can be deeply satisfying and rewarding.

Overall, strategy games offer a unique and engaging experience that challenges players to think strategically, make tough decisions, and achieve their goals through careful planning and execution.