Strategy video game

Lore & Background

A player must plan a series of actions against one or more opponents, and the reduction of enemy forces is usually a goal. Victory is achieved through superior planning, and the element of chance takes a smaller role. In most strategy video games, the player is given a godlike view of the game world, and indirectly controls game units under their command. Thus, most strategy games involve elements of warfare to varying degrees, and feature a combination of tactical and strategic considerations. In addition to combat, these games often challenge the player's ability to explore or manage an economy.

Even though there are many action games that involve strategic thinking, they are seldom classified as strategy games. A strategy game is typically larger in scope, and its main emphasis is on the player's ability to outthink their opponent. Strategy games rarely involve a physical challenge, and tend to annoy strategically minded players when they do. Compared to other genres such as action or adventure games where one player takes on many enemies, strategy games usually involve some level of symmetry between sides. Each side generally has access to similar resources and actions, with the strengths and weaknesses of each side being generally balanced.

Although strategy games involve strategic, tactical, and sometimes logistical challenges, they are distinct from puzzle games. A strategy game calls for planning around a conflict between players, whereas puzzle games call for planning in isolation. Strategy games are also distinct from construction and management simulations, which include economic challenges without any fighting. These games may incorporate some amount of conflict, but are different from strategy games because they do not emphasize the need for direct action upon an opponent. Nevertheless, some authors consider construction and management simulation games, in particular city-building games, as a part of the wider strategy game genre.

Reader's Guide

Strategy video games represent a significant genre in the history of electronic gaming, distinguished by their focus on cognitive challenge over physical dexterity. They evolved from non-digital board games and wargames, and their definition remains somewhat contested among scholars. The genre is broadly split into turn-based and real-time formats, each with distinct gameplay experiences: turn-based games allow for deeper artificial intelligence and more deliberate planning, while real-time games emphasize speed and continuous action. This division has led to ongoing debate among fans regarding which approach better represents 'true strategy.'

Key design elements include the management of units, resources, and technology trees, as well as map exploration often obscured by fog of war. Warfare is the most common form of conflict, though diplomacy and espionage appear in some titles. The genre's emphasis on outthinking opponents and its godlike perspective set it apart from action, adventure, puzzle, and role-playing games, though some overlap exists with construction and management simulations. Strategy games have influenced game design broadly, and their legacy includes a dedicated player base that values planning, resource allocation, and tactical decision-making over reflexes.

Did You Know?

• Strategy video games are commonly divided into turn-based strategy (TBS) and real-time strategy (RTS).
• Most strategy games give the player a godlike view of the game world and indirectly control units.
• The fog of war design technique allows players to see terrain but not units in explored areas.
• Some authors consider city-building games as part of the wider strategy game genre.