Classic Strategy Games Return: Close Combat and Warlords Series Now on Steam

Gaming history is making a comeback as the original Close Combat games and the Warlords series become available on Steam, thanks to publisher SNEG. These iconic titles, beloved by generations of gamers, have been optimized for modern systems, ensuring they’re easily accessible for a new era of players.

Close Combat Series: Reliving WWII Strategy

The Close Combat series, renowned for its detailed WWII strategic gameplay, is back. These games immerse players in historical campaigns, commanding troops across intense battles and various terrains. Originally launched in 1996, the series stands out for its combination of strategy, graphics, animation, and sound. Starting today, players can dive into the five original games developed by Atomic Games:

• Close Combat: Take charge in nonstop WWII action, leading troops through the chaos of war to victory. This standalone version marks the first time Close Combat is available digitally.
• Close Combat 2: A Bridge Too Far: Command Allied or Axis powers in the dramatic battle for five strategic bridges. From strategy to trench combat, every second counts in this WWII epic.
• Close Combat 3: The Russian Front: Engage in real-time strategy on the Russian Front, playing as Soviets or Germans. Experience four years of WWII’s grandest and bloodiest battles.
• Close Combat 4: The Battle of the Bulge: Navigate sneak attacks, spies, and weather patterns as you command American or German troops in this pivotal WWII battle.
• Close Combat 5: Invasion: Normandy – Utah Beach to Cherbourg: Relive the pivotal campaign from Utah Beach to Cherbourg, controlling Allied or Axis forces in battles that determined Europe’s fate.

Warlords Series: Fantasy Strategy Awaits

For those who prefer fantasy battles, the Warlords series offers three classic games from Strategic Studies Group. First released in 1990, Warlords set trends with its strategic depth and immersive world-building. Now, players can explore these legendary titles:

• Warlords I + II: Conquer different worlds, command mighty armies, and engage in quests, diplomacy, and magic to dominate rivals. This compilation offers hours of strategic fantasy gameplay.
• Warlords III: Darklords Rising: Enter a rich fantasy world of medieval warfare, featuring epic campaigns and massive strategic battles. This game expands beyond the original Warlords III, offering deeper gameplay.

Preserving Gaming History

“We’re committed to preserving classic games and ensuring they’re easily accessible. The Close Combat and Warlords series were hugely popular in the 90s, influencing many later hits. Their presence on Steam offers a chance to revisit or discover this part of video game history,” says Artem Shchuiko, co-founder of SNEG.

Marco Minoli, Director of Publishing at Slitherine, adds, “One of Slitherine’s founding values is also to preserve the history and tradition of computer wargames. Thanks to SNEG’s efforts, both veteran players and newcomers will have the opportunity to enjoy these titles on modern PCs without losing the original experience.”

Available Now on Steam

All these classic games are now available on Steam for $5.99 each, with promotional bundles offering discounts up to almost 50% during launch week. Dive back into these legendary strategies and relive the epic battles of yesteryear.

Fallout Builds a World Unlike Any Other

Inside building the post-apocalyptic world of Prime Video’s drama with production design, VFX, and prosthetics.

Prime Video’s “Fallout” is set within the post-apocalyptic universe of one of the most beloved video game series of all time, something that gave its filmmakers a rich world they could build on, deepen, and expand. When production designer Howard Cummings came on board, the first thing he did was immerse himself in the game and its various environments.

The appeal for Cummings and the other department heads wasn’t just the dense world but the fact that the series was telling a story not directly based on any of the games. “The fun thing is there’s such a rich universe in Fallout, but we weren’t doing a version of a specific game,” visual effects supervisor Jay Worth told IndieWire. “It really gave us the freedom to develop things within that world.”

That meant the filmmakers were able to create a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles with plenty of echoes from the video games – the “Ghoul” creature played by Walton Goggins that Garber helped bring to life has its origins in the ghouls of the game, as does the horrifying “Gulper” creature that emerges in the story.

Best Simulation Games 2024: Immersive Sims You Can Play Right Now

The appeal of simulation games is simple: they let players who may not have the opportunity to explore certain facets of life experience said activities from the comfort of their gaming chair. This could be flying a jet, organizing a space shuttle launch, or building and managing your own bustling city.

There are all sorts of activities which are available for players to enjoy. What was once a very PC-centric genre is now truly open to all. So whether you play on PC, PS5, or Xbox Series X|S, there’s a simulation game out there for you. Ready to immerse yourself? Let’s dive into our list of the best simulator games available right now.

9. Train Sim World 4

Conquer American mountains

Why we love it

Train Sim World 4 is a fantastic experience. If you’re a fan of trains and want to learn more or just simply want to recreate a train journey in a perfect scenario then this is the game for you.

8. X-plane 12

Up, up, and away

Why we love it

X-plane 12 is an incredibly detailed flight simulation game that can appeal to veterans and new players alike. There’s nothing quite like getting to fly various amazing planes across the world.

7. Farming Simulator 22

Let the good times grow

Why we love it

Farming simulator 22 has higher stakes than you may think possible. Getting to work hard to make sure your farm turns a profit is fantastically fun, just be sure to choose the right equipment to accompany your playthrough.

6. Prison Architect

Contain the most ruthless killers

Why we love it

Prison Architect is a thrilling simulation game that allows players to experience something that most likely won’t, prison life. Getting to perfect your own system is incredibly exciting.

5. F1 23

High-speed drama

Why we love it

If you’re a fan of Formula 1 then this is definitely a game that you should check out. This simulator game allows players to choose the racing drivers of their wish and experience all the races in a different thrilling way.

4. PowerWash Simulator

Fire up and blast away

Why we love it

This may be one of the most relaxing simulation games available to play right now. While other games in this genre can at times be quite complicated PowerWash Simulator relishes in simplicity.

3. Cities: Skylines 2

Build a city and look after its citizens

Why we love it

Cities: Skylines 2 has all the joy of the original’s city-building with smarter AI and more complex systems. However, if you’re new to the genre, you don’t have to worry about being left behind, as Paradox eases you into the world of managing your own metropolis.

2. Kerbal Space Program

Up, up, and away

Why we love it

Kerbal Space Program is just as lovable as it is thrilling. While this simulator may not be a direct copy of real life it makes up for this with its realistic calculations and space age features.

1. Euro Truck Simulator 2

Be the trucker

Why we love it

Euro Truck Simulator 2 is surprisingly fun, as driving trucks goes. The graphics, situations, and controls are all brilliantly realistic meaning that you can actually feel like you’re a truck driver across Europe.