Strategy games are one of the most popular genres of video games, requiring players to use their intellect, planning skills, and decision-making abilities to outwit their opponents. These games offer diverse challenges, from managing resources to building empires and waging wars, all of which require players to think strategically and tactically.
However, not everyone can access high-end gaming PCs that can handle massive games with high graphics and storage requirements. For those with low-end machines, finding a quality game that doesn’t eat up too much of their storage is essential.
10 Best PC Strategy Games Under 1GB
Age of Empires II
Developer: Ensemble Studios | Release: 1999
Age of Empires II is an iconic game that has remained relevant since its release in 1999. The game is set in the medieval era. Players build and manage their civilization, gather resources, and train armies to conquer their enemies.
With over 13 civilizations, each with unique units and technologies, the game offers a lot of replayability. The game also has a massive modding community that has added new cultures, campaigns, and gameplay mechanics.
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2
Developer: Westwood Pacific | Release: 2000
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 is a classic real-time strategy game set in an alternate reality where the Soviet Union and the Allies are at war.
The game features two unique campaigns for each faction, with different missions and objectives. Players can build their bases, train their armies, and take control of resources to defeat their enemies.
Civilization III
Developer: Firaxis Games | Release: 2001
Civilization III is a turn-based strategy game with players taking control of a civilization and guiding it from its earliest days to its eventual domination of the world.
The game features a deep tech tree, allowing players to unlock new technologies to improve their civilization’s abilities. The game’s graphics and sound effects may be outdated, but its gameplay remains as engaging as ever.
Total Annihilation
Developer: Cavedog Entertainment | Release: 1997
Total Annihilation is a classic real-time strategy game ahead of time. The game features two factions, the Core and the Arm, each with unique units and buildings.
The game’s main draw is its massive battles, with up to 500 units on the field simultaneously. Total Annihilation’s AI is also noteworthy, with teams intelligently adapting to changing circumstances.
Warcraft III
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment | Release: 2002
Warcraft III is a real-time strategy game with players controlling one of four factions: Humans, Orcs, Night Elves, or Undead.
The game features a lengthy campaign for each faction, with branching storylines and unique missions. Warcraft III is also known for its World Editor, which allowed players to create custom maps and game modes and helped create the tower defence genre.
Stronghold Crusader
Developer: Firefly Studios | Release: 2001
Stronghold Crusader is a castle-building game set during the Crusades. Players build and manage their castles, train armies, and battle against other castles.
The game also has a unique economic system, with players managing resources like food and wood to keep their castle functioning. The game’s graphics and sound effects are simple but effective, and its gameplay remains engaging.
Age of Mythology
Developer: Ensemble Studios | Release: 2002
Age of Mythology is a real-time strategy game set in ancient mythology. The game has three factions: Greeks, Egyptians, and Norse, each with its unique option.
It may be less on the visuals, but it is still one of the best games on this list.
Into the Breach
Developer: Subset Games | Release: 2018
A more recent game in this list, Into the Breach, is a turn-based strategy game with you controlling a squad of mechs tasked with defending the last remnants of humanity from an alien threat.
The game features a deep tactical system that allows you to manipulate the battlefield to your advantage, making it one of the best strategy games available in a small package.
Starcraft II
Developer: Blizzard Entertainment | Release: 2010
In this real-time strategy game, players control one of three factions: the human Terrans, the insectoid, or the technologically advanced Protoss.
Each faction has unique units and abilities, making for varied gameplay. Players must manage resources, build their base, and engage in intense battles to emerge victorious.
Total War: Shogun 2
Developer: Creative Assembly | Release: 2011
Another relatively new game, this game takes place in feudal Japan. It allows players to control one of nine factions as they strive to become the ultimate ruler of Japan. With turn-based strategic gameplay and real-time battles, players must manage their economy, diplomacy, and military to succeed.
These were the best strategy-based games that are low in size and less demanding but are very good for trying to score some records.
