A review of the most interesting quests on PC: from Beholder to Syberia

The era when every mouse click determined the outcome of the battle left unforgettable memories in the hearts of gamers. Old strategies on PC became a platform where dreams of great tactical victories and strategic decisions came true. These games raised an entire generation, taught them to build logical chains and predict the enemy’s actions.

Today, we will remember the cult strategies that have become real legends, and make a detailed review of each of them. We will dive into the stories of creation, gameplay and unique features to experience nostalgia for the games and a real desire to go back and play again.

Command & Conquer: the war that everyone remembers

Command & Conquer from Westwood Studios raised the genre of real-time strategies to new heights. The release took place in 1995, and it became a real breakthrough. The plot was based on the confrontation between two factions: GDI and Brotherhood of Nod. Players were immersed in the atmosphere of covert operations, waged wars for Tiberium resources, and this is what gave Command & Conquer a unique sense of strategic depth. Command & Conquer demonstrated that every battle could become part of a complex political and resource struggle.

Gameplay and innovative mechanics

Command & Conquer’s gameplay was revolutionary due to its emphasis on resource management and base building. Players mined Tiberium and used it to create an army, develop technologies and strengthen positions. The combat system, with a large selection of units – from infantry to heavy armored vehicles, became one of the most developed at that time.

Age of Empires II: a real time machine

Age of Empires II from Ensemble Studios was released in 1999 and immediately became the standard of the retro strategy genre. The concept immersed in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and allowed you to choose a civilization from an extensive list, including Vikings, Mongols, English and even Japanese. Each had its own unique features and units, which gave historical authenticity and involvement in the process. The developers managed to recreate the realities of the past with love for detail.

Development, construction and battles

The gameplay of Age of Empires II was based on the balance between economic development and military operations. Exfcnybr started with a small settlement and sought to build a powerful empire. The old strategy of the 90s on PC required the ability to competently manage resources – wood, gold, stone and food. Users studied technologies, built fortifications, recruited troops and went on campaigns. The key to victory was the ability to adapt to the enemy’s style of play and use your strengths.

Strategy teaches history

One of the main features of Age of Empires II was its educational component. Campaigns dedicated to Joan of Arc, William the Conqueror, Saladin and other famous historical figures allowed us to learn more about the events of the past. People discovered great battles and feats, and this made the gameplay not only exciting, but also educational.

Starcraft: Space Race

Starcraft by Blizzard Entertainment, released in 1998, became the founder of the eSports movement. Here you had to choose between three unique races: Terrans, Zerks and Protoss. Each had its own philosophy and style of combat. Old real-time strategies on PC, like Starcraft, literally turned the idea of ​​what competitions could be like on its head, because it did not forgive mistakes, required maximum concentration and perfect knowledge of your own and others’ capabilities.

Brutal pace and culture of winners

Starcraft is still called one of the most difficult strategies. Players mastered microcontrol, trained their reaction speed, and developed multi-layered tactics. In eSports, this game has become a symbol of skill and dedication. The best strategies of all time acquire cult status thanks to the emotions and challenges they offer. Starcraft became a real test of the mind and reaction.

Heroes of Might & Magic III: a legend of tactical fantasy

Heroes of Might & Magic III by New World Computing, released in 1999, became the standard for turn-based strategies and captured the hearts of millions. Here, players controlled heroes, explored magical lands, fought opponents, and collected artifacts.

Armies, heroes and artifacts

In Heroes of Might & Magic III, each army consisted of various creatures – from simple shooters to mighty dragons. Heroes had unique abilities that strengthened armies and gave an advantage in battle. Cult old strategies on PC often admired complex systems of pumping and interaction of units, and Heroes of Might & Magic III was no exception. Artifacts played an important role: they strengthened heroes, added new abilities and often became a key factor in victory.

Army and features:

1. Archers: the main combat unit, capable of inflicting damage from a distance, which gave a significant advantage in the initial phases of the battle.
2. Cavalry: fast units with high mobility and the ability to break into the enemy’s rear, causing critical damage.
3. Mages: had unique spells that could change the course of the battle, weakening the enemy or strengthening allies.
4. Dragons: powerful units with high attack and defense stats, their appearance on the battlefield often became a decisive factor.
5. Heroes: each hero had their own abilities and skills, which made them a key figure in battle tactics. They not only strengthened the army, but could also use magical artifacts to achieve superiority.

Artifacts

1. Hero weapons: increased damage and added special abilities for attacks.
2. Protective amulets: increased the army’s defensive stats, reducing damage taken.
3. Magic books: gave heroes new spells, which allowed them to adapt tactics depending on the enemy.
4. Rings and signet rings: increased the amount of health of units or added additional abilities, such as health regeneration.

Timeless classics – this is how you can call Heroes of Might & Magic III. Players still return to the project, thanks to its enchanting atmosphere, well-thought-out maps and opportunities for tactical experiments. Campaigns, cooperative mode and multiplayer battles ensured the concept a long life and the love of fans.

Civilization II: the path from nomads to interstellar colonies

Civilization II, released in 1996, was a continuation of the legendary series from Sid Meier. The old strategy was suitable even for weak PCs: it allowed you to build a civilization, starting with nomadic tribes and ending with interstellar expeditions. Gradual development from ancient times to modern times, researching technologies and creating a cultural heritage made Civilization II incredibly exciting.

Diplomacy and strategic alliances

Users could:

1. Join alliances to strengthen positions and create powerful coalitions.
2. Conclude peace treaties to avoid unnecessary conflicts and focus on economic development.
3. Conspiracy and use spies to obtain information about the plans of opponents and destroy their alliances.

The AI ​​offered interesting challenges, and each game became unique due to unstable diplomatic relations. The ability to use diplomacy and the ability to strategically assess the situation gave a great advantage on the global map.

Nostalgia for great eras

Nostalgia for the game brings back Civilization II again and again. The construction of wonders of the world, great campaigns and the first space programs have forever remained in the hearts of fans. The project taught the importance of planning, patience and the ability to adapt to change. The game remains one of the favorite strategies for those who are looking not only for entertainment, but also for a way to learn more about the development of civilizations.

Conclusion

Old strategies on PC continue to be a model of tactical depth and innovation. The projects laid down standards that modern developers are trying to surpass to this day.

Remembering the best strategies of all time, it is important to note not only the mechanics and gameplay, but also the emotions that they awakened. Perhaps it is worth returning to cult products again to experience those same feelings.

In 2025, the world of strategy games comes alive with renewed vigor. Projects promise to truly change the usual course of processes, bringing innovations and unique ideas to challenge even the most experienced players.

Anno 117: Pax Romana: a new word in strategies in 2025

Anno 117: Pax Romana tells about the era of power of Ancient Rome. Players will have to get used to the role of builders of the Roman Empire, manage its economy and politics, while making important strategic decisions against the backdrop of historical events. The developers sought to convey the atmosphere as accurately as possible: detailed maps, real historical events and personalities that create the impression of true immersion. Imperial policy, territorial conquests and cultural influence – all these aspects are presented in such a way that the participant feels that the fate of a great power really lies on his shoulders.

Unique mechanics and gameplay features

Anno 117 offers unique resource management mechanics and strategic city development. The strategy includes new complex supply systems, interactions between different social strata and a deeply developed system of foreign trade. The military component of the game is based on tactical battles, where proper troop management and skillful diplomacy become key factors for success. The game offers a wide range of construction options, allowing you to design cities like never before: with the development of infrastructure, water supply and even cultural institutions.

Why is Anno 117 a long-awaited new product?

Anno 117 gives you a chance to become part of history and rule a great state. Fans of the genre expect a revolution from it, especially due to innovations in economic and social aspects. Reviews from the first testers claim that the game really brings a fresh look to the genre, combining deep economic mechanics with a colorful historical atmosphere.

Civilization 7: what’s new have the developers prepared?

Civilization 7 is preparing to offer the world an even more exciting and diverse gameplay. As in previous parts, players will build their civilization, starting from ancient times and moving towards modern times, but now the emphasis will be on integrating cultural and scientific aspects. The turn-based strategy in Civilization 7 is getting a new lease of life with the introduction of unique scientific development branches, where each choice leads to specific consequences. The economic system has been significantly redesigned so that users can adapt their decisions to changing environmental conditions.

Improvements in diplomacy and new opportunities for interaction

The developers of Civilization 7 decided to deepen the diplomacy system, adding new opportunities for interaction with other civilizations. Now players will be able to conclude temporary alliances, hold cultural events and arrange trade missions. This approach makes each game unpredictable and interesting. The ability to influence world politics through soft power turns the game into a real simulator of international relations, which makes it one of the most anticipated strategies of 2025.

Innovations in graphics and atmosphere

Civilization 7 also received an updated graphic component: each era is now displayed in stunning detail, down to the smallest details on the map. The effects of climate change, natural disasters and visualization of buildings make the game a true work of art among strategies of 2025. Participants will be able to observe the development of their civilizations not only on the global map, but also through animations conveying cultural development and changes in society.

1. Graphics and effects: a complete rework of visual effects, including detailed display of buildings, climate changes and natural phenomena, creates an immersive atmosphere in each era.
2. Detailing of eras: each era comes to life thanks to the addition of unique visual and cultural details, down to the textures of buildings and technologies that develop before the player’s eyes.
3. Animations of cultural development: animations show how a civilization gradually develops, starting from primitive huts and ending with modern megacities, reflecting changes in architecture, culture and lifestyle.
4. Changes in the environment: a dynamic environment in which the player can observe natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions, droughts or floods makes the gameplay more lively and unpredictable.

What strategy games to play right now?

While the expected strategy games are only just getting ready for release in 2025, it is worth paying attention to the already released masterpieces that help pass the time Among the top options that continue to attract attention are Age of Empires IV, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Crusader Kings III, Stellaris and Hearts of Iron IV. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Age of Empires IV: offers historical scenarios and the opportunity to develop your civilization from a small settlement to a powerful state. Excellent graphics, realistic combat mechanics and a wide variety of nations make this game truly exciting.
2. Total War: Three Kingdoms: immerses you in the era of the Three Kingdoms, where every battle is a large-scale spectacle, and strategy and tactics decide everything.
3. Crusader Kings III: a unique game where dynasty management and political intrigue are key elements. Users assume the role of medieval rulers, developing their states through wars, diplomatic alliances and hereditary marriages.
4. Stellaris: a space strategy in which players explore the universe, build empires and clash with other civilizations. A deep research system, diplomacy and the ability to create a unique civilization make Stellaris one of the most complex strategies.
5. Hearts of Iron IV: a World War II simulator where players control entire nations, managing resources, economy and military forces. The ability to rewrite history and direct the course of the war in the right direction makes the session exciting and very popular.

Why are these games still on top?

Strategy games remain relevant thanks to constant updates and developer support. They continue to improve, adding new campaigns, nations, and game modes. A large community of fans and active discussions online also keep these projects interesting, creating new scenarios and challenges for players.

Conclusion

2025 promises to be a year of new discoveries in games and exciting adventures for all strategy fans. Projects such as Anno 117: Pax Romana and Civilization 7 will bring fresh ideas and deep detail to the genre. Those who appreciate an intellectual challenge and strive to control world processes will find something to do in this fascinating game world. So get ready: new strategies promise to surprise and delight even the most demanding players.