A future where robots do the work, not humans, is much closer than it might seem, and in some industries, it’s not the future at all, but the present. So, we’ve compiled a list of robot-related strategies so you too can feel like a master of “smart machines.”
Real-time strategy (RTS)
Total Annihilation
Total Annihilation is an RTS that has become a cult classic in the strategy genre about battles between robotic armies of the future .
The plot revolves around the confrontation between two factions, each with its own advantages. The Hand cautiously utilizes cutting-edge technology, while the Core implants its members with bionic implants, turning them into true cyborgs.
Once you choose your side, you’ll have access to over one hundred and fifty fighters and a wide variety of missions, which will provide dozens of hours of exciting play.
Supreme Commander
The Supreme Commander series , developed by the creators of Total Annihilation, has won the hearts of even more fans. The franchise is set in the distant future, engulfed in war that has divided the Earth’s population into three factions. These coalitions have become independent and are vying for the planet’s remaining resources and power.
The developers offer gamers three races, each with its own unique characteristics. Earthlings face off against the Cybrans—human-created cyborgs—and the Aeons— aliens . Fight for resources and territory, build settlements, and recruit an army.
RTS fans should definitely check out this franchise. In addition to the single-player campaign, the game offers customization of your own battles or online battles with other gamers. You’ll definitely find plenty to do in the world of Supreme Commander.
BATTLETECH
BATTLETECH is an RTS with a focus on base development and economics. The story centers on mercenaries whose primary mission is to end a cosmic feud between factions. Tensions reached a peak after the overthrow of the ruler, and now the two sides, deprived of resources, are trying to win independence.
Human-controlled mechs will be the primary force in the universe . Machines can be crafted from mined resources and upgraded to improve their stats. The storyline will change depending on the outcome of battles and dialogue encountered in the game.
Iron Harvest
This military RTS draws inspiration from genre classics like Company of Heroes, but focuses on deeper strategic gameplay and micromanagement, and most importantly, instead of classic tanks and armored vehicles, you’ll have formidable self-propelled combat vehicles at your disposal.
Iron Harvest is set in an alternate version of Europe at the beginning of the 20th century, where the Industrial Revolution has reached unprecedented heights and humanity has learned to create deadly diesel robots .
Terminator: Dark Fate – Defiance
This collection features a variety of strategy games where you can command a squad of combat robots of all shapes and sizes, but nowhere will you be able to participate in a war between humans and an entire army of Terminators .
Terminator: Dark Fate — Defiance throws you into the epicenter of the very same Omnic Crisis, so much talked about in the movies but rarely shown. In the story campaign, you’ll command the remnants of the human resistance, trying to resist the countless hordes of synthetic war machines controlled by a rogue artificial intelligence . However, in multiplayer , you’ll be able to try your hand at being an inhuman AI, destroying pathetic humans with your iron fist.
Outpost: Infinity Siege
Outpost: Infinity Siege is a combat robot game that will test all your gaming skills at once, as it offers a heady mix of strategy, tower defense, base building , shooter, and more .
You will single-handedly command an entire mobile outpost on the edge of a hostile world, where only combat vehicles will be at your command. Between repelling attacks from tireless enemies, you will need to gather resources to upgrade the technical equipment and weapons of your robotic fortress , making it increasingly impregnable in the face of even the most serious threats.
Planetary Annihilation: TITANS
Planetary Annihilation: TITANS is an RTS in which players develop their planet and ultimately destroy the enemy. The developers offer numerous missions in the single-player campaign, designed to gradually introduce players to the gameplay, as well as PvP multiplayer.
Gameplay involves choosing a commander with unique abilities, building production and defensive structures, and recruiting an army. In battles, it’s crucial to inflict as much damage as possible on enemy infrastructure. The most destructive weapons are comets aimed at the enemy planet. Ground battles are diversified by space combat , and robots are a delight. With such possibilities, Planetary Annihilation: TITANS is a tasty morsel for strategy fans.
Beyond All Reason
Beyond All Reason is a spiritual successor to Total Annihilation, created by the fan community of the legendary series, and is completely free to play at the time of writing.
Beyond All Reason boasts a wide selection of units, mostly robotic, so your first priority should be building plenty of power plants to ensure your high-tech army doesn’t run out of power at the most crucial moment. Similar to TA, there are only two factions, but both are well-balanced.
Zero-K
Here’s another fan-created follow-up to classic RTS ideas, offering the chance to participate in a future war on a planetary scale with hundreds of diverse units, which will be churned out by the thousands in factories you build from piles of metal and microchips.
However, what sets Zero-K apart from its more old-fashioned predecessors is the inclusion of a destructibility system , making these already impressive battles even more epic.
Metal Fatigue
Metal Fatigue is an RTS set in the distant future and a technological clash between factions. You’ll choose one side and head to the battlefield to prove your superiority.
Metal Fatigue’s gameplay requires careful consideration of each move and rapid response to enemy actions. Players will need to carefully consider fortifying their base, as this is a crucial element of the game. This requires resource extraction and recruiting an army.
The developers offer gamers a campaign with three dozen missions, a single-player mode with flexible battlefield customization, as well as multiplayer deathmatch and co-op . Fans of the genre will definitely enjoy the game.
Anomaly 2
Anomaly 2 is a strategy and tower defense game about an alien invasion of Earth. Survivors band together and travel the world in search of resources. Yukon, the leader of the group, is at your disposal.
A key gameplay feature of Anomaly 2 is the ability to counterattack without waiting for the enemy to launch an offensive. However, sticking to a single strategy won’t work, as the environment will create unforeseen challenges. You’ll have to constantly make quick decisions and adapt your tactics to survive and win the battle. Each robotic unit in the game has its own unique abilities, offering a unique attack opportunity. If you’re not a fan of the single-player campaign and prefer to play with real players, the developers offer multiplayer.
Project Hastur
Project Hastur is another blend of tower defense and strategy, where the player’s primary objective is to protect the people who have settled on the planet Nyx. Invaders are trying to push through your defenses, but you’ll have the most advanced weapons at your disposal, including laser cannons, turrets, aircraft, and, of course, combat robots.
Fans of strategy and tower defense games will undoubtedly enjoy the game. Besides the campaign, you can experiment with the dedicated mode, which offers endless gameplay.
Executive Assault
Executive Assault is a seamless blend of RTS and first-person shooter , challenging you to build your own base. The game places players on a planet, which they must conquer. This is the game’s main goal, but achieving it won’t be easy.
Executive Assault gameplay involves designing robotic troops and deploying them on the battlefield. Players will also need to manage their resources wisely.
Both games in the series are virtually identical in concept. The sequel features a number of graphical improvements and a new weapon set. If you prefer shooters and aren’t averse to an RTS, Executive Assault is a great choice.
AirMech Strike
AirMech Strike is a fast-paced online RTS where players compete for reputation. You can play co-op with teams of up to 8 players. To prevail, you’ll need to develop a sound strategy and effectively utilize robots, airmechs, and other units.
Although the game is designed for multiplayer, a single-player mode is also available. In addition to vibrant graphics, dynamic action, and a large number of combat units, it’s worth noting the enjoyable controls, which can be used with both keyboard and mouse , as well as a gamepad .
Earth 2160
Earth 2160 takes players to the distant future, when humans have abandoned Earth and migrated to other planets. The game features several factions warring for a place under the sun. The conflict stems from a lack of resources necessary for life.
Earth 2160’s gameplay is fully consistent with the canons of classic RTS games, where mechs and spaceships serve as the primary force, while defense and supply are provided by space stations. Players will also make extensive use of infantry, whose soldiers wear exoskeletons that enhance their abilities. Choose a faction, build a base, begin developing units, and monitor the progress of your settlers.
Despite its dated graphics, the game is worth checking out. Unlike modern gamers who prefer ultra-realistic games, this classic RTS will appeal more to old-school strategy fans.
Grey Goo
Grey Goo, a real-time strategy game, tells the story of humanity’s mastery of space. Factions have evolved, and a strange organism approaching the resource-rich planet Ecosystem 9 threatens to destroy all life.
Players will choose the faction they prefer and begin building an economy focused on creating a powerful military infrastructure. Tactics also play a significant role in Grey Goo, closely tied to upgrading combat units and acquiring new weapons. A distinct advantage of the game is the ability to create your own map using the built-in editor. Ultimately, Grey Goo will provide a wealth of positive experiences for fans of the genre.
Grit and Valor — 1949
Grit and Valor — 1949 — is a dieselpunk-style strategy game that transports players to an alternate version of World War II . Players can expect fierce battles with formidable vehicles, roguelike elements that force quick decision-making, and numerous upgrades that will allow them to seize the initiative and destroy the enemy.
In Grit and Valor 1949, players will manage squads, engage in fierce real-time clashes, overcome challenging challenges depending on the region, identify enemy weaknesses, and wisely exploit battlefield advantages. Battles will also yield resources needed to upgrade robots and pilot skills.
Mechabellum
Mechabellum is an autobattler dedicated to tactical combat against dangerous opponents. Players are transported to a futuristic world where battles are decided by powerful robots. At the same time, gamers will need to constantly upgrade their army in the workshop, as battles become increasingly difficult.
The creators of Mechabellum offered players a single-player mode with challenges, PvP in one-on-one and two-on-two formats, as well as competitions aimed at four people, in which everyone will fight for themselves.
Rusted Warfare — RTS
Rusted Warfare is a top-down RTS game inspired by classic RTS games from the distant past . It’s worth noting that the visuals shouldn’t fool genre enthusiasts, as the game quickly draws you in and offers modern features that make battles spectacular and dynamic.
Rusted Warfare allows you to battle opponents both solo and in multiplayer. Players can also experiment with scenarios in the Workshop and even submit their own mods to the community.
Taur
Taur is a seamless blend of strategy and action , set in a sci-fi setting. This low-poly game will require players to be constantly active. They’ll have to build towers, craft droids, and fly aircraft to defend the world of Taurons from invaders.
Taur will delight both fans of classic RTS and those who prefer to spend time with projects related to the tower defense subgenre.
Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Phantom Brigade
While Phantom Brigade lacks base-building and resource-gathering mechanics, its blend of turn-based tactics and real-time combat offers a highly memorable experience for genre enthusiasts.
In Phantom Brigade, you command a squad of combat robots, sending them on missions where you must plan various maneuvers and place them on a timeline, trying to anticipate enemy actions like a true military strategist. Once you’ve planned your attack, the battle begins in real time.
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus
Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus is a turn-based strategy game distinguished by its unique design and storyline. The latter centers on the planet Silva Tenebris, which players must conquer using the full might of the Tech-Priests.
Gameplay involves carefully managing resources, managing camps, and upgrading Tech-Priests. While basic units are initially weak, upgrades over time allow players to gain unprecedented power. The developers offer players five dozen chapters and a progressively more challenging level, eventually reaching the hardcore level. Fans of strategy and techno-worlds highly recommend Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus.
Into the Breach
Don’t let this game’s simple appearance fool you. Into the Breach is one of the most engaging robot combat strategy games out there.
At first, the limited space and only three available units will daunt you, but you’ll quickly discover the unprecedented strategic depth that lies within this minimalism.
Essentially, it’s a slightly more varied version of chess , where your pieces are futuristic mechs that have arrived from the future to save the planet, and your opponents are giant kaiju that destroy entire cities.
Post Human WAR
Post-Human WAR doesn’t exactly feel like a serious strategy game, and in many ways, it is, as you’ll be fighting a war between militarized domestic robots, mutated animals , and advanced primates after humanity’s extinction.
However, even in this frantic post-apocalyptic carnage, there is room for tactics and strategy, as each faction and each individual unit has its own set of strengths and weaknesses that can be exploited in different ways in the intense turn-based battles.
Warborn
Another colorful strategy game that will definitely attract a certain audience with its vibrant visual style, primarily fans of mecha anime like Macross.
WARBORN is a turn-based tactics game where you command your own elite squad of mechs fighting for the future of the solar system. Naturally, following its inspiration, there’s a strong emphasis on character development and military drama, which can be further exacerbated by poor leadership.
Scythe: Digital Edition
Scythe: Digital Edition is a turn-based strategy game, presented as a board game , set in an alternate World War I. This universe diverges from reality thanks to the introduction of mechs—deadly robots controlled by humans.
Choose one of five factions and begin your battle for global domination. Each empire, incidentally, differs in its goals, approach to conflict, military might, and technological advancement. Fans of virtual board games will definitely enjoy Scythe: Digital Edition.
SteamWorld Heist
SteamWorld Heist is a 2D arcade strategy game that challenges you to lead a gang of robotic space pirates. Players will navigate space and engage in battles with other gangs. The goal of these battles is to steal loot from your rivals. The game features a highly flexible difficulty setting, ensuring both new and experienced players enjoy the gameplay.
SteamWorld Heist’s key gameplay feature is its ricochet system and environmental interactions. To kill an enemy, gamers can lure them into a trap or calculate the bullet’s trajectory. Ultimately, over two dozen hours of dynamic gameplay await, a delight for fans of similar projects.
Gladiabots
Gladiabots is a strategy game with tactical puzzle elements that challenges gamers to try their hand at being a mechanic. The project can easily be described as a robot combat arena simulator . You’ll assemble a team of four types of gladiators , arm them, and program them to employ a specific strategy during combat.
The game doesn’t have a storyline, but according to users who have reviewed Gladiabots, it doesn’t need one. The gameplay may seem challenging at first, but the developers have provided a lengthy and detailed tutorial . This will help you master the robots and compete against the toughest opponents among other users.
Ironclad Tactics
Ironclad Tactics is a card strategy game with dynamic gameplay. The game takes players to the United States during the Civil War. In an alternate universe, the conflict rages with the use of steam-powered robots.
Casual controls make Ironclad Tactics accessible even to beginners. The existing mechanics are mastered right from the start of the single-player campaign. The latter, incidentally, features historical inserts in a comic-style style. If you master the single-player mode, feel free to move on to the next level, taking advantage of the opportunity to explore two separate scenarios that tell the story of events unfolding parallel to the main storyline. The developers also offer a fun way to challenge friends or random players in multiplayer.
TRANSFORMERS: BATTLEGROUNDS
TRANSFORMERS: BATTLEGROUNDS is a turn-based strategy game based on the animated series, where players will encounter familiar characters. Optimus Prime, Wandblade, Grimlock, and many others will join the squad. Stop the invasion of Earth and put up a worthy fight against Megatron.
During fierce and dynamic battles, robots will use both their abilities and the environment. Filling up your special ability bar will unlock a unique attack. The campaign features three difficulty levels to suit both beginners and hardcore players. In addition to single-player , players can enjoy multiplayer with co-op and PvP battles.
DUAL GEAR
DUAL GEAR is a strategy game that transports gamers to the year 2064. Humanity has reached the pinnacle of technological progress, having learned to generate enough energy to meet the needs of several planets. The plot revolves around a terrorist attack on a power station, which is damaged and splits into two. The imbalance on Earth has led to militaristic sentiments and the onset of a fierce confrontation between the opposing sides.
DUAL GEAR’s gameplay involves controlling a combat mech, utilizing its unique abilities. During combat, you’ll need to not only recklessly attack your opponents but also seek out every possible cover. Sound tactics are also crucial. The gameplay itself is turn-based, and events are randomly generated. Fans of mechs and epic battles highly recommend the game. To get a feel for the game’s capabilities, you should check out the demo version, available from the developers on the game’s Steam page .
Mayan Death Robots
Mayan Death Robots is a fun side-scrolling game that’s perfect for spending some free time with friends. When playing multiplayer, the screen switches to split-screen mode. Gameplay-wise, Mayan Death Robots is similar to Worms.
The gameplay involves choosing a unique robot with specific abilities and battling opponents on a limited map. Unlike Worms, the game features the ability to completely destroy the battlefield and a wider selection of weapons.
Mecharashi
Mecharashi is a turn-based strategy game where players must assemble mechs and set out to confront powerful enemies. Battles between players and their mercenary allies will require tactical skills, skillful leadership, and the ability to use available weapons effectively and efficiently.
Robot fans will surely love the game. The key is that you can design a mech, customizing its parts and giving it specific characteristics.
StarVaders
StarVaders is about an evil alien invasion of Earth. Only powerful robots and heroic pilots can save the situation. They must use their mechs to stop the invasion of their home planet and give humanity hope for a brighter future.
In terms of gameplay, StarVaders combines tactical strategy and card elements. Players must build a deck, assemble winning combinations, use abilities wisely, and overcome difficult situations. This can be accomplished using a special time token, which rewinds time if a decision is unsuccessful.
As you might guess, StarVaders’ engaging gameplay is matched by replayability , as there are plenty of ways to deal with enemies.
Master of Puppets
Master of Puppets is a simple strategy game with card elements and turn-based gameplay, focusing on resource management and combat. Players control combat vehicles, which they must use to defend facilities, extract resources, find treasures , and destroy enemies that stand in their way. All this allows them to upgrade their squad and make it even stronger.
Master of Puppets features multiple game modes, randomly generated campaigns, and a fair number of maps that can be customized and improved.
Adeptus Titanicus: Dominus
Adeptus Titanicus: Dominus is a turn-based strategy game that invites players to return to the Warhammer universe familiar to all old-school gamers. Players will control powerful units, with whom they can begin a single-player campaign or join friends online.
A streamlined command system displays every move made during a battle. The battle itself involves an exchange of attacks. The winner is the one who chooses the right tactics and utilizes all of their units’ capabilities. Titans, by the way, have the ability to deliver a variety of attacks, including cannon and laser volleys.
Unfortunately, the project’s interesting concept and excellent optimization implementation have not helped the game’s development. The product is currently unavailable for purchase, though it could have easily competed with Battletech.
The game is no longer available in official digital stores .
Strategy simulators, sandboxes
Planetbase
Planetbase is a strategy game in which players manage their own Martian colony. You’ll create a base, build facilities, provide settlers with food, air, and water, mine resources, and create robots. Androids are needed as a workforce. They resemble humans and behave accordingly.
The game features four planets, each with unique conditions and resource levels. Difficulty will also vary depending on the location. If you’re a fan of management-focused strategy games, don’t miss Planetbase.
Mech Engineer
Mech Engineer is more of a mech-building simulator set in a dark sci-fi setting, but with the ability to command your creations in combat.
You’re fighting an alien biological weapon of mass destruction, in the form of deadly and incredibly resilient monsters . Naturally, only fighters with the same characteristics can cope with such an enemy. You’ll have to create the perfect killing machines and test them out.
TerraTech
TerraTech is a sandbox strategy game in which players assemble unique robots and explore a vast world spanning forests, plains, deserts , and mountains.
TerraTech’s gameplay includes tasks such as constructing combat vehicles, flying vehicles, buildings, and other world elements. After creating a universe, players can deathmatch other gamers or compete in gauntlet competitions with unique vehicles.
If you want to create your own universe and story, TerraTech is a great tool to bring your plans to life. Numerous elements, including materials, blocks, and mechanisms, will help you!
ReFactory
ReFactory is a strategy and city-building game where you’ll test your skills in a distant future setting. The story’s protagonist is the artificial intelligence of a ship that crashed in an unknown location. Humanity has achieved unprecedented technological advancement, resulting in robotic workers rolling off the assembly line. Droids are tasked with all the heavy lifting of construction and ensuring smooth production. Create the perfect colony, don’t forget to protect it from alien invaders, and find a team by organizing search operations.
ReFactory will delight all fans of classic strategy and simulation games. This seemingly simple project will captivate you, and the time spent playing will fly by.
Illuminaria
Illuminaria is a strategy game focused on resource management. Players must save the world by controlling intelligent robots. However, resource gathering and base building aren’t the only tasks involved; defense is also a consideration. Evil invaders occasionally attempt attacks, but the protagonists are armed and capable of putting up a worthy fight.
The game spans five regions, each with its own unique technologies and resources. The gameplay is incredibly engaging, making it a highly recommended title. If you’re still unsure whether to purchase the game, check out the demo available on Steam.
Microtopia
Microtopia will present players with a challenging task, as they will have to lead a colony of robo-ants to prosperity. Systematic development can only be achieved through automation of processes and the effective work of each of their wards.
Microtopia will delight players with a detailed in-game world, a focus on logistics and control of all processes, and a variety of activities. These include, for example, resource gathering, satisfying the queen’s needs, construction, breeding new ant species with special abilities, and technological advancement.
Craftomation 101: Programming & Craft
Craftomation 101: Programming & Craft takes gamers to an icy planet. Joined by a robot, players must prepare it for terraforming. The creators’ proposed activities, including resource mining, obtaining new materials, assembling mechanical assistants, automation, and crafting , will help solve this challenging task.
The main feature of Craftomation 101: Programming & Craft is robot programming . This process is presented visually, making the project accessible even to beginners with no prior experience in IT.
Mechsprofit: Mech Tycoon Simulator
The strategy simulator Mechsprofit invites gamers to become a fur magnate. The game takes players to the dawn of the fur industry, where robots, along with automobiles, play a vital role in human life. Grow and maintain your factory to become an industry leader.
In Mechsprofit, players collect mechs and sell them on the market. Managing the corporation’s personnel is also crucial, as the business’s profitability depends directly on its workers . Unfortunately, despite its interesting concept, the game was pulled from sale due to the developer’s financial difficulties and subsequent project suspension. There is hope that further development and a full release will take place someday.
The game is no longer available in official digital stores.
