The Battle for Dominance: Real-Time Strategy vs. Turn-Taking War Games

What are your reasons for partaking in the wonderful world of gaming? For many, it’s the ability to live out fantastical fight scenes, challenge their brain with combat-based problem solving, and generally produce some epic fight material that one can’t perform with their own physical body.

It is these appeals that draw in the masses to real-time strategy games as well as war-based games. While both genres are prominent in the industry, we take a step back to look at how the two compare against each other in this article.

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The Difference

Real-time strategy games entail a fast-paced, decision-making playthrough that depends on your ability to make tactical choices amid action to progress through the game. Some of the most popular strategy games for PC include Jagged Alliance 3 and Crusader Kings 3. On the other hand, turn-taking war games take a less time-restricted approach to strategy. Rather than playing out in real-time, decision-making is taken in turns, meaning that players have more flexibility in the time they have to develop a thought-out strategy, as a good plan is key to success in games like this.

The Real-Time Tension of Alliance 3

Jagged Alliance 3 is a great embodiment of what a real-time strategy game should include. With exciting urban fights, well-executed strategy, and an enjoyable world to explore, JA3 makes for an interesting playthrough for lovers of the genre. Other than the somewhat subpar and occasionally immature writing, the overall experience is a positive one when playing this game.

As a strategy-based game, its strategy is certainly its strongest aspect – so, I guess it does what it says on the tin. If you’re looking for the bread and butter of strategy gaming: look no further.

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The Slow Build of Civ 6

Moving toward the turn-taking side of strategy games, Civ 6 is up there in the hall of fame amongst gamers. Faring as more of a digital board game, Civ 6 takes a modern approach to an all-out war game that spans the history of human existence. Sounds pretty cool, right?

With the possibilities of creating entire civilizations, building military legions, and waging turn-based warfare, this game is an awesome adventure for those gamers who prefer to take their time with their strategy. With a world map and design that exceeds those of its predecessors, Civ 6 cemented itself as a top-tier strategy game. With the constant back and forth of turn-taking strategy, you might just find yourself taking ‘one last turn’ at 3 am in the morning.

There are both pros and cons to each style of strategy game that offers distinct and enticing gameplay. Where real-time strategy requires quick thinking and improvisation, turn-taking strategy offers a more relaxed environment in which to cook up your plans. Both genres overlap in a lot of ways and have been host to some of the most popular video games since their inception. At the end of the day, your favorite genre will typically be defined by personal preference – or, even better, why not enjoy them both?