Top Turn-Based Strategy Games Of 2013

Hey gaming enthusiasts! Let's rewind the clock to 2013, a year that gifted us with some seriously awesome turn-based strategy games. For those of you who dig deep gameplay, tactical thinking, and the satisfaction of outmaneuvering your opponents, 2013 was a goldmine. We're talking about games where you take turns to move your units, plan your attacks, and ultimately, conquer the battlefield. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and let's dive into some of the best turn-based strategy games that 2013 had to offer. We'll be exploring what made these games stand out, their unique features, and why they're still worth playing today. If you're new to the genre, don't worry – think of it as a chess match with explosions and epic fantasy creatures, or maybe even futuristic war machines. The goal? To outsmart, outplan, and outlast your opponents. Let's get started and find out which titles defined the year, shall we?

We will be taking a look at a range of titles that varied in setting and gameplay, showing the broad appeal of the genre. From historical battles to sci-fi skirmishes and fantasy adventures, 2013's turn-based strategy games delivered something for everyone. Whether you were a seasoned strategist or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes, there was a game out there to captivate you. So, get ready to discover games that challenged your strategic thinking, offered hours of gameplay, and left a lasting impression on the gaming world. Let's see some of the top titles of 2013 and why they should be on your gaming radar.

XCOM: Enemy Within: The Ultimate Tactical Showdown

Alright, let's kick things off with a bang and talk about XCOM: Enemy Within. This game is an expansion to the critically acclaimed XCOM: Enemy Unknown, and it's a must-play for any fan of turn-based strategy. Imagine this: You're in charge of a global defense force, and your mission is to protect Earth from a terrifying alien invasion. Sounds intense, right? That's just the beginning. XCOM: Enemy Within takes everything you loved about Enemy Unknown and cranks it up a notch. The gameplay revolves around tactical combat, strategic base building, and researching alien technology. You control a squad of soldiers, each with unique skills and customizable loadouts. On the battlefield, you'll face off against a variety of alien threats, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It's up to you to position your soldiers strategically, utilize cover, and use your abilities to eliminate the enemy. One wrong move, and your soldiers could be gone for good – permanently! The high stakes and permadeath system make every decision feel incredibly important. When you lose a veteran soldier, it's like a punch to the gut. You feel the loss, and you have to adjust your strategy. It really makes you care about your squad.

But it's not all about the battlefield. Back at your base, you'll be managing resources, researching new technologies, and building facilities to enhance your capabilities. You'll have to make tough choices about where to allocate your resources, what technologies to prioritize, and which missions to undertake. The strategic layer of the game is just as important as the tactical combat. Enemy Within added a lot of new content to the base game. There are new maps, new enemies, new soldier abilities, and a whole new resource called Meld. Meld allows you to genetically modify your soldiers, giving them even more powerful abilities. Think of it like a power-up. You're not just fighting aliens; you're also enhancing your soldiers to be the ultimate weapon. You can also equip your soldiers with mech suits. They’re basically walking tanks, armed to the teeth and ready to dominate the battlefield. These new additions drastically changed the gameplay and offered a more in-depth experience. XCOM: Enemy Within is a masterpiece of turn-based strategy. The combination of intense tactical combat, strategic base building, and a gripping storyline makes it a game you can't put down. The game is challenging, rewarding, and offers hours of replayability. If you missed out on it back in 2013, now is the time to jump in! You won't regret it. It's a true gem of the genre, and if you're looking for a game to test your strategic skills and keep you on the edge of your seat, XCOM: Enemy Within is definitely it.

Civilization V: Brave New World: Expand Your Empire

Next up, we have Civilization V: Brave New World. Civilization is a series that needs no introduction. It's the granddaddy of turn-based strategy games. Brave New World is an expansion pack to Civilization V, and it's the perfect way to get your fix of historical empire-building. If you love the idea of leading a civilization from the dawn of time to the space age, then this is your game. In Civilization V: Brave New World, you start with a small group of settlers and build an empire that will stand the test of time. You'll manage your resources, research new technologies, build cities, and engage in diplomacy with other civilizations. You’ll be making critical decisions every turn, from deciding which technologies to prioritize to which city to build next. But what makes Brave New World so special? It adds a ton of new content and depth to the base game. It introduces new civilizations, new wonders, and new gameplay mechanics. One of the biggest additions is the introduction of a new victory condition: cultural victory. Now, you can win the game by dominating the world through culture, tourism, and great works of art. This gives players a new strategic path, making the game more dynamic and fun. You can develop tourism to attract other civilizations and build wonders. It also features a reworked diplomacy system that is much more engaging. You'll be trading resources, forming alliances, and waging war. The AI is smarter, making the diplomacy more unpredictable. You can also explore the world map, discovering natural wonders and making your civilization stronger.

The gameplay is incredibly addictive, drawing you in for just one more turn. Before you know it, you've spent hours building your empire. Civilization V: Brave New World offers incredible replayability, allowing you to try different civilizations and strategies. If you enjoy the depth, the historical setting, and the complexity, this game is for you. It's a game that will test your strategic thinking and keep you coming back for more. Whether you're a seasoned Civilization veteran or new to the series, Brave New World is a must-play. It's a fantastic turn-based strategy game that will keep you engaged for hours on end, offering a truly immersive and rewarding experience. Leading your civilization to greatness feels incredibly satisfying, and the challenges along the way keep you hooked. Get ready to build, explore, and conquer. Civilization V: Brave New World is a masterpiece of the genre, and it's a game you won't want to miss. It really is one of the best out there, and it’s still relevant today.

Divinity: Original Sin: Epic Fantasy Adventures

Alright, let's switch gears and talk about Divinity: Original Sin. This game is a gem for any RPG and turn-based strategy fan. Imagine a world filled with magic, mystery, and a whole lot of choices. That's Divinity: Original Sin for you. You play as Source Hunters, tasked with investigating a series of mysterious murders and uncovering a greater evil. The gameplay is all about exploring a detailed world, interacting with interesting characters, and making choices that shape the story. The combat system is a highlight of Original Sin. It's turn-based, but with a twist. The environment plays a huge role in combat. You can use fire to ignite oil slicks, create electrifying puddles, or freeze water to create ice. The creativity is endless, and it opens up a world of strategic possibilities. You're not just limited to attacking; you can manipulate the environment to your advantage. You'll fight a variety of enemies, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It's up to you to use your skills, abilities, and the environment to your advantage. Divinity: Original Sin also features a deep and engaging story. You'll encounter a cast of memorable characters, each with their own motivations and secrets. The choices you make have a real impact on the story, leading to different outcomes and endings. This makes every playthrough unique and encourages replayability. The game also supports co-op, so you can play with a friend. This is the perfect experience for any gamer who loves RPGs.

Divinity: Original Sin is a fantastic turn-based strategy game. The combination of tactical combat, a rich story, and an engaging world make it a game you'll remember. It offers a unique and satisfying experience. The depth of the game's mechanics, the freedom of choice, and the strategic combat make it stand out. Divinity: Original Sin is a testament to what makes the genre so amazing. The freedom to experiment with different strategies, the intricate combat system, and the compelling story make it a true masterpiece. If you're looking for a game that will challenge your strategic thinking, immerse you in a fantastical world, and provide hours of entertainment, this is it. Divinity: Original Sin is a must-play for any fan of turn-based strategy games and RPGs. You will be captivated from start to finish. If you have not tried this game before, you should immediately!

Other Notable Turn-Based Strategy Games of 2013

Besides the amazing titles we've just covered, 2013 had a variety of other outstanding turn-based strategy games. Some of these might have flown under the radar, but they are still worth a look. Let's shine a light on a few more gems that you may want to explore:

• Shadowrun Returns: This game brought the classic cyberpunk-fantasy tabletop RPG to the digital world. It's a tactical combat game with a strong emphasis on storytelling. You get to build a character and delve into a world filled with magic and technology. You are going to be a shadowrunner, completing missions for profit in a gritty, neon-lit world.
• Age of Wonders III: If you're a fan of fantasy, this game offers a blend of empire building and tactical combat. It's a great choice if you love managing your civilization and battling mythical creatures.
• Breach & Clear: This game focused on tactical combat, putting you in control of a special operations team. You have to plan every move to overcome the enemies.

Why These Games Still Matter

Even though 2013 was quite a while ago, the games we’ve discussed still resonate with players today, for multiple reasons. They provide timeless gameplay, depth, and the satisfaction of outwitting your opponent. They offer different strategic options to keep you engaged. Many of these games have been remastered or have had sequels, but the originals from 2013 still hold their own. The core mechanics of these games, the ability to make meaningful choices, and the depth of the strategic gameplay keep players coming back. Moreover, these games are a great entry point for new players. The community surrounding these games is still active and supportive, so you’ll find plenty of resources to help you along the way. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the genre, 2013's turn-based strategy games still offer a lot to enjoy. These games are a testament to the power of strategic thinking and the joy of outsmarting your opponents.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 2013's Turn-Based Strategy Games

So, there you have it, folks! We've taken a trip down memory lane, revisiting some of the best turn-based strategy games that 2013 had to offer. From the alien-infested battlefields of XCOM: Enemy Within to the empire-building in Civilization V: Brave New World, and the fantastical adventures of Divinity: Original Sin, 2013 was a fantastic year for the genre. These games provided a mix of settings, gameplay mechanics, and strategic depths, all of which made them stand out from the crowd. The impact of these games is still felt today, influencing new games and inspiring the gaming community. If you are looking for a game to test your strategic skills, immerse you in a captivating world, or simply provide hours of entertainment, these games are great choices. Dive in, and see why 2013 was a banner year for turn-based strategy games! Happy gaming! Now go forth and conquer the virtual world. Remember to keep strategizing, keep planning, and keep having fun. These games are a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre. Don't miss out on these incredible games, they will for sure provide you with hours of fun! These titles are must-plays for any strategy fan.