Wccftech selects the best strategy and simulation games of 2024, including "Frost 2"

In 2024, despite witnessing many challenges in the gaming industry, including massive layoffs, the failure of multiple AAA games, and the overall market downturn, the strategy and simulation game segment is still working hard to move forward. Although there are not many large-scale titles of this type this year, even the mainstay of simulation games "Football Manager" has suffered delays, breaking the annual release tradition since 2003.

However , we should not dwell on unfinished games, but focus on those strategy and simulation games that have already been released. Let’s take a look at the best strategy and simulation games of 2024 selected by Wccftech. Please note that this list only includes released games, so Early Access and remastered versions are not taken into account.

"Homeland 3" - 8.5/10

Genre: Real-time Strategy

Platform: PC

"Homeworld 3" is undoubtedly the star on this list. I first came into contact with this game in 2022, and despite delays, it finally became a hit in 2024. Despite its early flaws, Homeworld 3 became a standout game thanks to its classic world and gameplay.

Editor's evaluation of "Homeland 3":

"Homeland 3" marks the successful return of this respected series. Blackbird Interactive not only continues the successful tradition of space strategy, but also significantly improves the combat experience with a more tactical approach, successfully leaving its mark. The intensity of tactical combat makes every move crucial, and a tiny mistake could land you in trouble down the road. The additional war game mode is the icing on the cake, making it a highly engaging title.

"Freeze Age 2" - 9/10

Type: Simulation Game

Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox

"Ice Steam Age" is a game with beautiful appearance, excellent sound effects and excellent gameplay. of original work, characterized by its organic growth and inheritance. As you expand further into the wasteland, you'll need to maintain a balance while dealing with politics, resources, factions, and many challenges, often including settling and building in new areas. Although challenging, it is more approachable and is the best among many city builders.

"Freeze Age 2" is an excellent game that deeply expands on the original version while retaining its essence. The shift from a single core to creating constituencies is extremely meaningful, and the expansion of world map elements, the creation of outposts, and more add a whole new layer to the game.

"Happiness Factory"

Genre: Simulation Game

Platform: PC

"Happiness Factory" is an amazing game, even before its release, it was 5.5 million copies sold.

Now, this game deserves its reputation. Few titles in simulation games reach such a broad audience. Happy Factory turned building a factory—albeit on an alien planet you must survive—into a game that millions of people are clamoring to buy and play, with an average daily player count that puts even many "AAA" games in the dust. .

There’s not much to say about this game, it’s rich and complex in detail, yet extremely easy to play; the creativity is superb; and the gameplay is enjoyable and addictive. "Happiness Factory" has all the ingredients for success, and its success proves it.

"Ara: The Untold History" - 7.5/10

Genre: Turn-based Strategy

Platform: PC

Oxide Games, the developer of "Ara: The Untold History", has finally released its first game The work was followed by another game. Ashes is known for its early DirectX 12/asynchronous computing benchmarks, while Ara: The Untold History is more focused on the gaming experience. It's also a turn-based game, as opposed to the real-time strategy style of Ashes.

Editor's review of "Ara":

I must admit that while writing this review, I kept echoing "I like this, but..." in my mind. At first, I was inclined to give it a rating of around 6.5, but after writing down all my thoughts and playing more, I realized I was wrong. Ara: Untold History is a truly excellent 4X strategy game, even if it has some problems. If you like this genre, you'll love it. But if you are looking for a deeper 4X experience, it may not meet all your needs. However, I still plan to continue playing this game in depth.