Unlike games centred around twitchy mechanics, such as first-person shooters or beat 'em ups, strategy games have existed for thousands of years before video games. Board games like Chess and Go have long offered satisfying, competitive strategy, without the need to actually go to war. Thanks to advances in computer technology, video games are now able to offer strategic entertainment on a far greater level than ever before. It's now possible to re-enact entire military campaigns from Ancient Rome, or battle through space against endless hordes of alien forces. While shiny graphics help add to the immersion, it's the artificial intelligence and behind-the-scenes number crunching that really gives strategy video games the edge over their analog cousins. From turn-based grand strategy to real-time urban skirmishes, strategy is about as broad a genre as you'll ever find in video games. Although known for its complexity and close-knit communities, there is genuinely something there for anyone with an interest in testing their tactical abilities. This list takes a look at 20 of the greatest strategy games of all time. This includes turn-based strategies, real-time strategies and 4X titles, along with everything in between. If you're looking to crack into this notoriously daunting genre, this list would be a good place to start!
