The Best RTS Game of All Time: Z
The Late ’90s: A Golden Era for Strategy Games
The late ’90s marked the golden era of strategy games, with an abundance of iconic titles such as Command and Conquer, C&C Red Alert, StarCraft Brood War, Commandos, Age of Empires 2, Total Annihilation, and the original Homeworld. However, among all these big names, one British development studio, The Bitmap Brothers, created the coolest and the absolute best real-time strategy (RTS) game of them all – Z. Even to this day, Z holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers, including myself. The best part? You can now get your hands on this incredibly immersive game for less than a dollar!
The Introduction to Z: A Captivating Start
The captivating journey of Z begins with a memorable opening cutscene where two robot soldiers named Brad and Allan face the wrath of the loud-mouthed Commander Zod. Their hilarious antics and the charismatic crew of robots instantly drew me in, eager to explore the game’s unique gameplay system and execution.
A Unique Gameplay Twist: Territory Control
Unlike traditional RTS games that focus on resource gathering and base expansion, Z sets itself apart with a complete deviation from the norm. In Z, battles revolve around territory control. Each map is divided into regions, and by capturing a region’s flag, you establish dominance over it. This control grants you access to various facilities, including radar stations, robot and vehicle factories, and more. The more regions you control, the quicker you can produce units. However, beware – relinquishing control of a region at the last moment allows the enemy to produce units in your name, adding an intense layer of gameplay and strategy.
Diverse Units and Intriguing Strategies
Z boasts a roster of units that are both simple to learn yet incredibly distinct in their strengths and weaknesses. From the lightweight Jeeps and Grunts with their machine guns to the heavier tanks and enemy turrets, each unit presents unique tactical opportunities. Additionally, the ability to shoot the driver out of enemy units and take control of them for your own side adds an extra dimension to the fast-paced and frantic gameplay. What awaits you is a thrilling, challenging experience that truly stands the test of time.
Greatest Discount and Bundle Offers
If you’ve never experienced the unparalleled excitement of Z or want to revisit the heyday of RTS games, now is the perfect opportunity. Z is currently available on Steam at an astonishing 87% discount, bringing the price down to a mere $0.90/£0.64. Furthermore, you can also explore the sequel, Z: Steel Soldiers, by availing the bundle offer, which comes at an enticing 85% discount, priced at $2.24/£1.91. Although the sequel follows a more traditional RTS approach, it still delivers solid gameplay that aficionados of the genre will enjoy.
More Strategy Games to Explore
For those craving more strategy games, be sure to check out our curated list of the best strategy games you might have missed in 2024. Additionally, if you’re feeling nostalgic and want to relive the cherished classics of PC gaming, we have you covered with a compilation of all the best old games and PC classics that are still available to play today.
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