When looking for the best strategy games like Age of Empires, there are quite a number of things to consider. While there might be a lot of similar games like it, knowing which one to play might be a very daunting task. Especially if you’re playing from a Windows PC, Xbox, PlayStation console or any device. You’ll surely see a lot of titles and, certainly, you can’t play them all. But that’s the purpose of this article, you’ll discover cool games.
Age of Empires was released back in 1997 and it’s over 26 years span, it has created fun for most gamers. It is one of the few games that brings real-time strategy gameplay to life. Aside from that, it features unique stories and engaging gameplay like never before. If you love playing strategy games, then you must have come across the Age of Empires not once but twice. Similarly, we have modern real-time strategy games as seen with some MOBA games.
While the Age of Empires has dominated the world of strategy games, there are other alternatives you can explore. In this article on Naijaknowhow, we’ve made a list of the best strategy games like Age of Empires. These games feature both Iron Age and Stone Age elements, making them the perfect fit. When it comes to downloading them, you’ll find them on websites to download games. Also, you can find them on online game stores like Steam and websites like Ocean of Games.
List of The Best Strategy Games Like Age of Empires
The Age of Empires has had quite a number of instalments over the years. But what if you’ve conquered every corner of its world and are hungry for more? Well, that’s where the alternatives come in. On mobile devices like the Android and iPhones, we’ve seen games replicating the Stone Age. We have games like Clash of Kings and some tower defense games that make sense to play. Without any further delays, let’s explore the top games like Age of Empires below.
1. Shadow Tactics: Blades Of The Shogun
Shadow Tactics: Blades Of The Shogun is one of the best games like Age of Empires that you can play. If you’re the type who enjoys real-time strategy, then there’s a game that’ll keep you engaged for hours. This takes place in Japan and it offers a different environment compared to the Age of Empires. In this game, you’ll take control of a team of skilled assassins as they navigate the treacherous waters of political intrigue and war.
Unlike Age of Empires where you’ll have to build a lot of armies, there are just a few ones you need to build in this one. Shadow Tactics is a real-time tactics game that combines stealth and strategy. You’ll control a team of five specialists, each with unique skills. Sneak through the shadows, execute precise assassinations, and plan your moves meticulously to outsmart your enemies. There are a lot of challenging missions in Shadows Tactis, but that’s what makes it fun.
2. Northgard
Next on the list is Northgard and while there have been questions of similar gameplay to the Age of Empires. Well, Northgaard is a game set in a land inspired by Norse mythology. Northgard is one of those few games you’ll love to play. In fact, it makes sense for an online multiplayer game where players can engage in real-time battles. In this game, you’ll lead a clan of Vikings and explore a mysterious new continent, where you’ll face challenges.
Moreover, these challenges range from hard weather to mythical beats. If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy gameplay with city-building and resource management. Then there’s no doubt Northgard is the perfect alternative to Age of Empires for you. In addition to building, players will need to gather resources and build and expand their territory. Also, there are a lot of maps for players to explore in Northgard, making it more engaging.
3. Rise of Nations
Another game on the list is Rise of Nations and it makes sense as an alternative to Age of Empires. Rise of Nations features a progression gameplay that’ll see players pass through historical ages. You’ll go from ancient times to the modern era as you play through Rise of Nations. When looking for features found in popular RTS games, they’re all present in Rise of Nations. The game also blends unique graphics for each era players play through.
One unique feature is the multiplayer mode where up to 8 players can be matched in a single game. Besides, the game gets better thanks to the different map sizes and types available as well. The gameplay is very straightforward, you just need to progress through the modern age. While that doesn’t come easy, you’ll be provided with resources and all you need. This is one of the best Age of Empire alternatives you can play right now.
4. Civilization VI
Similar to other building games on the list, Civilization VI is a game that focuses on building civilizations. This game is one of the few editions of the Civilization game series. When starting out on Civilization VI, you’ll need to build with a small group and then evolve into a formidable nation. The game’s complex mechanics involve resource management, diplomacy, research, and warfare. You’ll also have to make important choices about government, culture, and technology.
In terms of game modes, Civilization VI features different game modes like single-player campaigns and other multiplayer scenes. What makes it fun to play is that you can pull up battles against other players from another empire. Besides, this game provides highly detailed gameplay with smooth graphics on all screens. If you want to spend time enjoying some real-time strategy gameplay, Civilization VI is your go-to option.
5. Age of Mythology
Similar to Age of Empires, Age of Mythology also allows players to experience almost the same gameplay. This game takes the familiar real-time strategy gameplay but adds a dash of mythology and legends. What also adds to the mythological gameplay is that there are 3 different civilizations. There’s also an introduction of units, heroes and god powers into the traditional AGe of Empire gameplay. Everything about the Age of Mythology makes perfect sense.
The game’s campaigns follow engaging storylines, and you’ll face mythological creatures and gods, each with unique abilities. Resource management and city-building are core elements as well. When it comes to the game modes, Age of Mythology features different campaigns, battles against AI and some really fun multiplayer gameplay. If you want to get busy playing a game like Age of Empires, this game is perfect for you.
6. Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3
Unlike most games that feature myths and historical moments, Command & ConquerL Red Alert 3 features modern strategy gameplay. Well, you might have played one or two battle royale games like Fortnite, PUBG or Apex Legends. You’ll find similar gameplay mechanics in these games in terms of weapons and all. In Command & Conquer, you can play as either the Allies, Soviets, or Empire of the Rising Sun. It’s a mix of military might and tongue-in-cheek humour.
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 is all about building, attacking and defending against enemies. As the player, you’ll need to build bases, gather resources, and engage in battles with different units. These units include infantry futuristic mechs and naval fleets. One of the cool features is the names of popular actors in its live-action cutscenes. You can also make allies by joining a clan and adding other players to your friend list.
7. 0 A.D.
O.A.D. is an open-source RTS game that features almost the same gameplay as Age of Empires. While most games are paid for, you can download O.A.D. on your device for free. In O.A.D., you’ll be leading one of several ancient civilizations. The gameplay involves gathering resources, building your city, training armies, and engaging in battles. It features realistic graphics and complex mechanics that challenge your strategic thinking.
While the game is still in development, it offers a single-player mode against AI opponents and a multiplayer mode to compete against others online. If you appreciate the historical accuracy and the idea of a free, open-source alternative to Age of Empires, 0 A.D. offers an intriguing choice.
8. Cossacks: European Wars
Rounding up the list of popular games like Age of Empires, Cossacks: European is another top choice. It is one of the few real-time strategy games that were set in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. The game focuses on large-scale battles, historical accuracy, and a vast array of units.
Cossacks emphasize mass warfare and resource management. You’ll command armies consisting of thousands of soldiers, ranging from infantry to cavalry. The game’s extensive tech tree allows you to advance your civilization through historical eras. The game offers single-player campaigns, historical battles, and skirmishes. Multiplayer mode lets you face off against other players in epic battles.
Conclusion
Age of Empire has made a name for itself over the years and it stays in the hearts of many. If you’d consider going for an alternative, the above-mentioned games are the best ones you can download and play. You’ll surely love these games, they have all the elements needed in a real-time strategy game.
