8. Command & Conquer (1995). 20 Best Classic PC Strategy Games

Attacking enemy supply lines could literally paralyse its actions.

The first installment of the Command & Conquer series is now an iconic game, and it contained all the elements that defined the series in subsequent parts. It is also a title that represented another step in the evolution of real-time strategy.

The gameplay in Command & Conquer could essentially be boiled down to the classic pattern of expanding the base and recruiting units – their task was to destroy enemy fortifications. Of course, in order to do this, we needed resources, specifically tiberium, which was also the cause of the whole struggle between the two factions in the game.

Although the formula seemed fabulously simple, it created a lot of room for creativity. We were able to build a strong economy and defensive positions in order to flood the enemy with huge numbers of our troops in the end, as well as to employ diversionary tactics and destroy the enemy's defenseless harvesters, thus depriving them of a chance to develop. The two in-game campaigns contained about a combined hour of cinematic cut-scenes featuring real actors and providing the game with a specific vibe.

In 1995, the possibilities offered by the first installment of Command & Conquer were very impressive. Importantly, this game created a new quality that later secured the series a place in the annals of video games.