Gaming is not just about pressing buttons and going for the high score. It’s about strategy – the art of outsmarting your opponents and achieving your goals. But what exactly is strategy in gaming? How does it work? And how can you become a master strategist? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover the secrets of strategy in gaming, exploring everything from the basics of game theory to advanced tactics used by pro gamers. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive pro, this guide will give you the tools you need to take your game to the next level. So sit back, grab a controller, and get ready to discover the thrill of strategy in gaming.
Understanding Strategy in Gaming
Defining Strategy
Key Elements of Strategy
In gaming, strategy refers to the approach and methods employed by players to achieve their objectives within a specific game environment. It encompasses various elements that contribute to the overall success of a player. Some of the key elements of strategy in gaming include:
- Assessing the situation: Players must analyze their current position, the strengths and weaknesses of their character or team, and the abilities of their opponents.
- Planning ahead: Players must anticipate potential outcomes and devise a plan to achieve their objectives while minimizing risks and countering potential threats.
- Resource management: Players must efficiently manage their resources, such as health, mana, ammunition, or other in-game assets, to maximize their effectiveness.
- Adaptability: Players must be able to adjust their strategy based on changing circumstances, such as losing a team member or discovering a new area of the map.
Types of Strategy
There are various types of strategy in gaming, depending on the game genre and mechanics. Some common types of strategy include:
- Pure strategy: In games with no element of chance, such as chess or Go, players employ pure strategy, relying solely on their ability to predict and counter their opponent’s moves.
- Mix strategy: In games with elements of chance, such as poker or blackjack, players must balance their pure strategy with decision-making based on probability and risk assessment.
- Bluffing: In games like poker, players may employ bluffing strategies, attempting to deceive their opponents about their hand strength or intentions.
- Tactics: In real-time strategy games or first-person shooters, players must use tactics to gain an advantage in battle, such as flanking, ambushing, or positioning.
Understanding the key elements and types of strategy in gaming is essential for players to develop effective gameplay strategies and achieve success in their chosen games.
The Importance of Strategy in Gaming
In gaming, strategy refers to the planning and execution of actions that aim to achieve a desired outcome. It involves the use of critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to outmaneuver opponents and gain an advantage. Strategy is crucial in gaming because it enhances gameplay and provides players with a competitive edge.
Enhancing Gameplay
Strategy plays a vital role in enhancing gameplay by adding depth and complexity to the gaming experience. When players employ strategic thinking, they must consider various factors such as the strengths and weaknesses of their characters, the environment, and the actions of their opponents. This requires careful planning and decision-making, which in turn adds excitement and challenge to the game.
Furthermore, strategy allows players to develop unique approaches to gameplay, tailoring their tactics to suit their preferred playstyle. This personalization adds to the replayability of games and encourages players to explore different strategies and techniques.
Gaining Competitive Advantage
Strategy is also essential in gaming because it provides players with a competitive advantage. In multiplayer games, players must compete against each other to achieve objectives or defeat opponents. Employing effective strategies can give players an edge over their opponents, allowing them to outmaneuver and defeat them more efficiently.
Additionally, strategic thinking can help players anticipate their opponents’ moves and counter them effectively. This requires a deep understanding of the game mechanics, the opponents’ playstyle, and the environment. Players who can effectively anticipate and counter their opponents’ moves have a higher chance of winning.
In summary, the importance of strategy in gaming lies in its ability to enhance gameplay and provide players with a competitive advantage. Whether it’s personalizing playstyle or outmaneuvering opponents, strategy is a crucial aspect of gaming that can greatly impact the outcome of a game.
The Role of Skill and Luck in Strategy
In gaming, strategy refers to the plan of action designed to achieve a specific goal. While strategy often involves skill and planning, it is also influenced by luck. This section will delve into the role of skill and luck in strategy and how they can impact gameplay.
Balancing Skill and Luck
Skill and luck are both essential components of strategy in gaming. While skill involves the knowledge, experience, and decision-making abilities of the player, luck refers to unpredictable events that can impact the outcome of the game. A successful strategy must balance both skill and luck to achieve the desired outcome.
For example, in a game like poker, players must use their knowledge of the game, understanding of their opponents, and decision-making skills to make strategic decisions. However, luck also plays a significant role in the outcome of each hand, as the cards dealt to each player are random. To be successful in poker, players must balance their skill and luck by making strategic decisions while also being aware of the luck factor.
Factors Influencing Skill and Luck
Several factors can influence the role of skill and luck in strategy. These include:
- Game type: Different games require varying levels of skill and luck. For example, games like chess require a high level of skill, while games like slots rely more on luck.
- Player experience: Skilled players can often make better decisions and have a better understanding of the game, which can increase their chances of success. However, luck can still play a role in the outcome of the game.
- Gameplay mechanics: The mechanics of the game can also influence the role of skill and luck. For example, in a game like Minecraft, players must use their knowledge and skill to gather resources and build structures, but they must also be aware of the random events that can occur, such as natural disasters.
In conclusion, strategy in gaming involves a balance of skill and luck. Players must use their knowledge, experience, and decision-making abilities to make strategic decisions, while also being aware of the luck factor and how it can impact the outcome of the game.
The Evolution of Strategy in Video Games
The world of video games has witnessed a significant evolution in the way strategies are implemented and utilized. The development of gaming strategies can be traced back to the early days of gaming, where players relied on basic techniques to progress through levels. Over time, as the complexity of games increased, so did the sophistication of gaming strategies. In this section, we will explore the evolution of strategy in video games, including historical overviews and the impact of technology.
Historical Overview
The first video games were simple and did not require complex strategies to complete. Games like Pong and Space Invaders required players to react quickly to simple challenges, without the need for intricate plans or tactics. As gaming technology advanced, so did the complexity of games, and with it, the need for more sophisticated strategies.
One of the earliest games to require strategic thinking was the classic game of chess. The game of chess has been around for centuries and requires players to plan ahead and think multiple moves ahead in order to succeed. The concept of strategic thinking was then incorporated into video games, and the first games to utilize this concept were strategic war games like Risk and Axis & Allies.
The Impact of Technology
As technology continued to advance, so did the complexity of video games. With the introduction of more advanced graphics and processing power, games could now simulate real-world scenarios with greater accuracy. This allowed for the development of more sophisticated strategies, as players could now plan ahead and make decisions based on a wider range of factors.
The impact of technology on gaming strategies can be seen in games like SimCity and Civilization, where players must manage resources, build infrastructure, and make strategic decisions in order to succeed. The rise of online gaming has also had a significant impact on the evolution of gaming strategies, as players can now compete against each other in real-time, utilizing complex strategies to outmaneuver their opponents.
In conclusion, the evolution of strategy in video games has been a gradual process, with each new technological advancement bringing about new opportunities for strategic gameplay. From the early days of Pong to the complex strategic challenges of modern games, the world of gaming has always been about pushing the boundaries of what is possible and exploring new frontiers in strategy and gameplay.
Popular Strategy Games Genres
Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games
Characteristics of RTS Games
- Real-time: RTS games require players to make decisions and give orders in real-time, without pausing the game.
- Resource management: Players must gather resources and manage them effectively to build and maintain their base and army.
- Base building: Players must construct and expand their base to produce units and build defenses.
- Unit control: Players must control and direct their units in battle, using strategic movements and tactics to outmaneuver and defeat the enemy.
- Technology trees: RTS games often feature technology trees, where players can research new technologies and upgrades to improve their units and base.
Examples of RTS Games
- Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
- Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
- Command & Conquer: Generals
- Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings
- Rise of Nations
These are just a few examples of popular RTS games that have been enjoyed by gamers for years. Each game offers its own unique blend of gameplay, strategies, and units, making the genre a rich and diverse one for players to explore.
Turn-Based Strategy (TBS) Games
Characteristics of TBS Games
- Turn-based gameplay, where players take turns making moves
- Involves planning and decision-making
- Often includes resource management and unit development
- Typically features a variety of unit types with unique abilities and strengths
- May include terrain and positioning strategy
- Can be either single-player or multiplayer
Examples of TBS Games
- Chess: A classic TBS game with simple rules but deep strategic gameplay
- XCOM: A series of TBS games where players must manage a team of soldiers and use strategy to defeat alien forces
- Civilization: A series of TBS games where players must build and manage a civilization, including managing resources, researching technology, and engaging in diplomacy and warfare
- Fire Emblem: A TBS game where players must manage a team of units and engage in tactical battles, with permadeath mechanics adding to the strategic challenge
- Final Fantasy Tactics: A TBS game set in the Final Fantasy universe, featuring a variety of unit types and a deep storyline.
MMO Strategy Games
Characteristics of MMO Strategy Games
Massive Multiplayer Online (MMO) strategy games are a popular genre of games that offer players the opportunity to engage in strategic gameplay with thousands of other players simultaneously. These games typically feature a persistent world where players can interact with each other, build structures, and manage resources in real-time. Some of the key characteristics of MMO strategy games include:
- Persistent world: MMO strategy games typically feature a persistent world that exists even when players are not logged in. This means that players can log in and out of the game at any time, and their progress and changes to the game world will be saved.
- Real-time gameplay: MMO strategy games are played in real-time, which means that players must make decisions and take action quickly to stay ahead of their opponents.
- Resource management: MMO strategy games often require players to manage resources such as gold, wood, or food to build structures, train troops, and maintain their economy.
- Social interaction: MMO strategy games often encourage players to interact with each other, form alliances, and engage in diplomacy to achieve their goals.
Examples of MMO Strategy Games
Some popular examples of MMO strategy games include:
- Age of Empires Online: This game is a spin-off of the popular Age of Empires series and allows players to build and manage their own empires in a persistent world. Players can choose from a variety of civilizations and engage in combat, trade, and diplomacy with other players.
- Star Wars: The Old Republic: This game is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the Star Wars universe. Players can choose to play as a Jedi, Sith, or other characters and engage in combat, quests, and crafting.
- Travian: This game is a browser-based MMO strategy game that allows players to build and manage their own civilizations in a persistent world. Players can choose from a variety of tribes and engage in combat, trade, and diplomacy with other players.
- Lord of the Rings Online: This game is a MMORPG set in the Lord of the Rings universe and allows players to explore Middle-earth, complete quests, and engage in combat with other players.
Developing Strategic Thinking in Gaming
Recognizing Opportunities
Spotting Patterns
One of the key elements of recognizing opportunities in gaming is the ability to spot patterns. This involves observing the behavior of both yourself and your opponents, and looking for repeated sequences of actions that indicate a particular strategy or tactic is being employed. By recognizing these patterns, you can anticipate your opponent’s moves and plan your own accordingly.
Predicting Player Moves
Another important aspect of recognizing opportunities in gaming is the ability to predict your opponent’s moves. This requires a deep understanding of the game mechanics, as well as an awareness of your opponent’s play style and tendencies. By anticipating your opponent’s moves, you can gain an advantage by preparing countermeasures or taking proactive steps to disrupt their strategy.
By combining these two skills, players can develop a keen sense of intuition and strategic thinking that is essential for success in gaming. Whether you’re playing a fast-paced first-person shooter or a complex strategy game, recognizing opportunities and making the most of them can mean the difference between victory and defeat.
Adapting to Changing Circumstances
Analyzing Situations
In order to adapt to changing circumstances in gaming, it is essential to analyze the situation thoroughly. This involves identifying the strengths and weaknesses of your own team as well as those of your opponents. It is also important to assess the terrain and the resources available to you. By taking the time to carefully analyze the situation, you can develop a better understanding of the current state of the game and make more informed decisions about how to proceed.
Adjusting Strategies
Once you have analyzed the situation, it is time to adjust your strategy accordingly. This may involve changing your approach to gameplay, adjusting your team composition, or shifting your focus to a different objective. It is important to remain flexible and open to change, as the game may evolve rapidly and unexpectedly. By being able to quickly adjust your strategy in response to changing circumstances, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your goals.
Learning from Successes and Failures
In order to become a proficient gamer, it is crucial to learn from both successes and failures. This involves analyzing past experiences and identifying patterns or strategies that were effective or ineffective. By doing so, gamers can gain valuable insights into their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of their opponents.
One way to learn from successes and failures is by evaluating performance. This involves assessing the outcome of each game or match and analyzing what went well and what didn’t. For example, a gamer might ask themselves questions such as: What were my strengths during the game? What were my weaknesses? How did I handle different situations? What could I have done differently to achieve a better outcome?
Another way to learn from successes and failures is by seeking feedback from others. This can be done by asking friends, teammates, or even opponents for their opinions on a gamer’s performance. Feedback can provide valuable insights into areas for improvement, as well as reinforce strengths. It is important to keep an open mind and be receptive to constructive criticism, as it can help to refine strategies and enhance overall performance.
In addition to evaluating performance and seeking feedback, it is also helpful to reflect on past experiences and consider how they can be applied to future games. This involves developing a growth mindset and being willing to learn from mistakes and adapt strategies as needed. By continually learning from successes and failures, gamers can develop a deeper understanding of the game and improve their overall performance.
Strategy Tips for Different Types of Games
RTS Games
Focusing on Resource Management
Resource management is a crucial aspect of RTS games. Players must collect and manage resources such as gold, wood, and stone to build structures, train units, and conduct research. To optimize resource management, players should prioritize collecting resources near their base, minimize waste, and make use of scouting to discover resource-rich areas. Additionally, players should be mindful of the production queue and prioritize building defensive structures before expanding their base.
Prioritizing Unit Production
In RTS games, unit production is essential for success. Players must decide which units to produce and when to do so. Factors such as the map, the enemy’s composition, and the player’s own strategy should be considered when deciding which units to produce. For example, players may want to prioritize ranged units in open maps and melee units in confined spaces. It is also important to keep an eye on the production queue and adjust it as needed.
Defensive and Offensive Strategies
Defensive and offensive strategies are key components of RTS games. Players must decide whether to focus on defense or offense or a combination of both. A strong defense can prevent the enemy from attacking, while a strong offense can destroy the enemy’s base. To achieve a successful defense, players should build strong defensive structures such as walls and towers, place traps, and use terrain to their advantage. For offensive strategies, players should focus on building a mix of offensive and defensive units, while also considering the enemy’s base layout and defenses. It is also important to scout the enemy’s base to gather information on their defenses and units.
TBS Games
Turn-based strategy (TBS) games are a unique breed of games that require players to think several moves ahead and manage resources carefully. In TBS games, players take turns making moves, and the outcome of each move can have a significant impact on the game’s outcome. Here are some strategy tips for playing TBS games:
Planning Ahead
One of the most critical aspects of TBS games is planning ahead. Players need to anticipate their opponents’ moves and plan their own moves accordingly. This requires a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics and the strengths and weaknesses of each unit. Players should also consider the game’s terrain and the positioning of their units to gain an advantage.
Exploiting Weaknesses
Another important strategy in TBS games is exploiting weaknesses. Players should look for opportunities to attack their opponents’ weak points, such as low-health units or units with low defenses. By targeting these units, players can quickly eliminate them and gain an advantage in the game.
Maintaining a Balanced Economy
Managing resources is crucial in TBS games. Players need to balance their production of units and infrastructure to ensure they have enough resources to maintain their economy and build new units. It’s essential to prioritize production based on the current situation in the game. For example, if the player is under attack, they may need to prioritize producing defensive units. However, if the player is on the offensive, they may need to prioritize producing offensive units.
Overall, TBS games require careful planning, strategic thinking, and resource management. By following these strategy tips, players can improve their chances of success in TBS games.
Alliances and Diplomacy
In MMO strategy games, alliances and diplomacy play a crucial role in determining the success of a player. Building and maintaining relationships with other players can provide benefits such as access to resources, protection from attacks, and assistance in battles. To establish strong alliances, it is important to communicate effectively, honor agreements, and show loyalty to one’s allies. Diplomacy involves negotiating with other players, making deals, and forging friendships.
Exploration and Exploitation
Exploration and exploitation are two key strategies in MMO strategy games. Exploration involves searching for new territories, resources, and opportunities. This can be done by venturing into uncharted areas, discovering hidden treasures, and uncovering secrets. Exploitation, on the other hand, involves utilizing available resources to the fullest potential. This can be achieved by constructing buildings, training armies, and developing new technologies.
Player Interaction Strategies
Player interaction strategies are crucial in MMO strategy games. These strategies involve how players interact with each other, whether it be through trade, diplomacy, or conflict. Trade involves exchanging resources, goods, or services with other players. Diplomacy involves negotiating and building relationships with other players. Conflict, on the other hand, involves engaging in battles and wars with other players. To be successful in MMO strategy games, players must be skilled in all three of these strategies and use them effectively.
Strategy and Esports
The Role of Strategy in Competitive Gaming
Impact on Tournament Outcomes
Strategy plays a crucial role in competitive gaming, as it directly impacts the outcome of tournaments. A well-crafted strategy can give players an edge over their opponents, leading to increased chances of winning. Conversely, a lack of strategy or poor decision-making can result in losses, even if a player has superior skills or equipment. Therefore, understanding the importance of strategy in competitive gaming is essential for any aspiring esports player or enthusiast.
Factors Influencing Competitive Strategy
Several factors influence the competitive strategy employed by players in different games. These factors include:
- Game Mechanics: The game mechanics, such as the in-game economy, unit composition, and map control, significantly impact the strategies employed by players. Understanding these mechanics is essential for developing effective strategies.
- Player Skills: The skills of the players, such as aim, reaction time, and decision-making, also play a significant role in determining the strategies used. Players with superior skills may be able to execute more complex strategies, while those with weaker skills may need to rely on simpler, more straightforward strategies.
- Game Balance: The balance of the game, including the strengths and weaknesses of different units or heroes, also affects the strategies employed. Players must consider the strengths and weaknesses of their own team and their opponents when developing strategies.
- Player Preferences: Personal preferences and playstyles also influence the strategies employed by players. Some players may prefer a more aggressive, high-risk approach, while others may prefer a more defensive, conservative style.
Overall, the role of strategy in competitive gaming is multifaceted and complex. It is influenced by various factors, including game mechanics, player skills, game balance, and player preferences. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing effective strategies and achieving success in competitive gaming.
The Future of Strategy in Esports
Technological Advancements
The future of strategy in esports is marked by the rapid pace of technological advancements. As technology continues to evolve, so too does the strategic landscape of competitive gaming. With advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analysis, strategies that were once thought to be unbeatable can now be countered with new tactics and counter-strategies. This creates a constant cycle of innovation and adaptation that keeps the competitive gaming scene fresh and exciting.
The Evolution of Competitive Gaming
Another key factor in the future of strategy in esports is the evolution of competitive gaming itself. As more and more people become interested in esports, the competitive landscape is becoming increasingly diverse. This means that strategies that work in one game or genre may not be as effective in another. Esports players must now be able to adapt to a wider range of strategies and game styles, making the competitive landscape even more dynamic and unpredictable.
The Impact of Social Media
Social media has also played a significant role in the growth and development of esports. With the rise of platforms like Twitch and YouTube, esports players have been able to connect with fans and build a following in a way that was never before possible. This has led to a greater focus on individual player performance and personal branding, which in turn has influenced the strategies that players use.
In addition, social media has also allowed for a greater level of transparency in the competitive gaming scene. With live streams and video content, fans can now see behind the scenes of esports events and gain a better understanding of the strategies and tactics used by top players. This has led to a greater level of analysis and discussion around esports strategies, which in turn has driven the evolution of the sport.
Overall, the future of strategy in esports is bright and full of possibilities. With technological advancements, the evolution of competitive gaming, and the impact of social media, the strategic landscape of esports is constantly changing and evolving. This means that players must be adaptable, innovative, and willing to take risks in order to stay ahead of the curve and achieve success in the highly competitive world of esports.
Key Takeaways
Importance of Strategy in Gaming
Strategy is a crucial element in gaming as it helps players make informed decisions and anticipate the actions of their opponents. A well-executed strategy can lead to victory, while a poor one can result in defeat.
The Evolution of Strategy in Video Games
Strategy has evolved alongside the development of video games. Early games relied on simple strategies, while modern games require complex strategies that take into account a wide range of factors, such as resource management, terrain, and team composition.
Developing Strategic Thinking in Gaming
Developing strategic thinking in gaming requires practice and experience. Players must learn to analyze the game environment, anticipate the actions of their opponents, and make decisions based on that analysis.
Strategy Tips for Different Types of Games
Different types of games require different strategies. For example, real-time strategy games require players to manage resources and troops, while first-person shooters require players to navigate the environment and take out enemies.
Strategy and Esports
Esports has become a popular platform for competitive gaming, and strategy is a key factor in determining the outcome of tournaments. Professional players must have a deep understanding of strategy in order to compete at the highest level.
Conclusion
Strategy is a critical component of gaming, and developing strategic thinking can be a valuable skill for players of all levels. Whether playing casually or competitively, understanding the importance of strategy and how to develop it can lead to greater success in gaming.
Future of Strategy in Gaming
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the role of strategy in gaming remains an essential component for players and game developers alike. The future of strategy in gaming promises to be an exciting and dynamic space, with ongoing developments and expected innovations that will shape the way we think about and approach strategy in gaming.
Ongoing Developments
One of the most significant ongoing developments in the future of strategy in gaming is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms. These technologies are being used to create more sophisticated and intelligent opponents, as well as to provide players with personalized and adaptive game experiences. This has the potential to greatly enhance the strategic depth and complexity of games, making them more challenging and engaging for players.
Another ongoing development is the increasing focus on competitive gaming and esports. As more and more people become interested in competitive gaming, there is a growing demand for strategically complex and engaging games that cater to this audience. This has led to the development of new genres and subgenres of games, such as real-time strategy (RTS) and multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games, which are specifically designed to cater to the needs and preferences of competitive gamers.
Expected Innovations
In the future, we can expect to see even more innovations in the realm of strategy in gaming. One area that is likely to see significant development is the use of virtual and augmented reality technologies. These technologies have the potential to greatly enhance the immersive experience of games, making them more engaging and realistic for players. This could lead to new and exciting opportunities for strategic gameplay, as players are able to interact with their environment and opponents in more dynamic and interactive ways.
Another area of expected innovation is the integration of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies into gaming. This has the potential to greatly enhance the economic and strategic aspects of games, as players are able to trade, buy, and sell in-game assets and currencies. This could lead to new and exciting opportunities for strategic gameplay, as players are able to engage in complex economic systems and interactions within their games.
The Continuing Relevance of Strategy in Gaming
Despite the many changes and developments in the gaming industry, the importance of strategy in gaming is likely to continue to be a key factor in the industry’s success. Strategy adds an extra layer of depth and complexity to games, making them more engaging and challenging for players. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see new and exciting developments in the realm of strategy, as game developers seek to meet the changing needs and preferences of players. Whether you are a casual gamer or a competitive esports player, the future of strategy in gaming promises to be an exciting and dynamic space, full of new and exciting opportunities for gameplay and engagement.
FAQs
1. What is strategy in gaming?
In gaming, strategy refers to the thoughtful and intentional plan of action that a player uses to achieve their goals within a game. It involves analyzing the game’s mechanics, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different characters or units, and anticipating the moves of opponents. Strategy is often used to gain an advantage over opponents and to increase the chances of winning.
2. Why is strategy important in gaming?
Strategy is important in gaming because it allows players to think critically and make informed decisions. It helps players to understand the game’s mechanics and to anticipate the moves of opponents. Strategy also helps players to identify and exploit weaknesses in their opponents’ strategies, giving them an advantage in the game.
3. What are some common strategies in different types of games?
Different types of games have different strategies that players can use. For example, in real-time strategy games, players must manage resources, build structures, and deploy units to defeat their opponents. In first-person shooters, players must use cover and choose their weapons wisely to outmaneuver their opponents. In puzzle games, players must use logic and deduction to solve challenges.
4. How can I improve my strategy in gaming?
Improving your strategy in gaming involves several steps. First, you should understand the game’s mechanics and learn the strengths and weaknesses of different characters or units. Second, you should analyze your own playstyle and identify areas where you can improve. Third, you should study the strategies of other players and learn from their successes and failures. Finally, you should practice and apply your strategies in different game scenarios to gain experience and refine your approach.
5. Can strategy be applied to all types of games?
Strategy can be applied to many types of games, but not all games require or benefit from strategy. Some games, such as casual games or games with simple mechanics, may not require much strategy. However, many popular games, such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Starcraft II, are heavily reliant on strategy and require players to think critically and make informed decisions.