Frostpunk 2: Brutal survival city builder masquerading as an RTS; demanding, unforgiving, and incredibly rewarding. Master resource management or watch your society crumble. Prepare for moral dilemmas that’ll haunt you long after you’ve beaten it.
Age of Empires IV: Solid, polished AoE experience. Good for casual and competitive play alike. The campaign is decent, but the multiplayer shines. Strong civilization diversity, though some feel less balanced than others.
Command & Conquer: Remastered: Nostalgia trip done right. Classic gameplay holds up surprisingly well. The remaster is fantastic, but the original’s charm remains undeniable. Expect intense base building and unit micro.
Northgard: Viking-themed RTS with a strong emphasis on resource management and strategic choices. Less about massive armies and more about cunning tactics. High replayability due to varied Viking clans and game scenarios.
Ashes of Singularity: Escalation: Massive scale, incredible unit variety, and deep strategic layers. Prepare for huge battles involving hundreds of units. Steep learning curve, but immensely satisfying once mastered. Requires a beefy PC.
Driftland: The Magic Revival: Unique island-hopping mechanics add a fresh twist to RTS conventions. Magic system is interesting, but it can feel slightly unbalanced at times. Beautiful visuals.
Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak: Focuses heavily on strategic movement and tactical combat in a 3D environment. Beautiful, evocative world and a gripping storyline. A worthy entry point to the Homeworld franchise, though some may find the scale slightly smaller than the mainline titles.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition: The OG RTS still holds its own. Vastly improved visuals, tons of content, and a thriving competitive scene. Classic gameplay loop perfected over decades.
Are RTS good for the brain?
While the claim that RTS games improve brain function is intriguing, let’s unpack Zhang et al.’s (2015) findings. Their research, using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), indicated structural brain plasticity in players. This doesn’t automatically translate to overall cognitive enhancement, however. The study focused on specific brain regions associated with:
- Spatial reasoning: RTS games demand strategic map awareness and unit placement, potentially strengthening related brain networks.
- Multitasking: Managing resources, building bases, and engaging in combat simultaneously exercises cognitive flexibility.
- Decision-making under pressure: The dynamic, time-sensitive nature of RTS fosters rapid, informed choices, potentially improving executive functions.
Important Caveats:
- Correlation, not causation: The study shows a correlation between RTS gameplay and brain plasticity, not a direct causal link proving RTS games *cause* cognitive improvement. Other factors could be at play.
- Specific brain regions: The observed plasticity is localized. It doesn’t guarantee improvements across all cognitive domains.
- Study limitations: Consider the sample size, participant demographics, and the specific RTS game used. Generalizing findings requires further research across diverse populations and game titles.
- Moderation is key: Excessive gaming can have negative consequences. Balance is crucial. A healthy lifestyle incorporating diverse activities is essential for overall brain health.
In short, while suggestive of potential benefits in specific cognitive areas, the evidence isn’t conclusive. Further research is needed to solidify the link between RTS gaming and broader cognitive enhancement. The findings should be interpreted cautiously, and the impact is likely highly dependent on individual factors and gaming habits.
Can I switch back to Economy 7?
Switching back to Economy 7? Think of it like a challenging boss fight in a long RPG campaign. First, you need to gather intel. Get quotes from different suppliers – that’s your scouting phase. Compare those quotes to your current costs; it’s a crucial resource management check. A smart meter? That’s like acquiring a powerful new artifact. Many suppliers require it for Economy 7, making it a significant upgrade. If you already have one, the switch is much smoother; think of it as having an advantageous starting position. Without one, installation might be necessary, adding a bit of extra grinding to the process. Remember, comparing suppliers is key; finding the right deal is your ultimate victory.
What’s the most played RTS?
Determining the “most played” RTS is tricky, as it depends heavily on the platform and definition of “RTS.” Steam charts offer a snapshot of concurrent players, not overall playtime, which is a significant distinction. The data provided shows peak concurrent players, not a holistic measure of popularity.
Steam’s Top RTS Concurrent Players (All-Time Peak):
- Dota 2 (1,295,114): While often categorized as a MOBA, Dota 2 shares core strategic elements with RTS games, particularly in its base building and army management aspects. Its massive player base is a testament to its enduring appeal and competitive scene.
- Hearts of Iron IV (93,196): A grand strategy game focusing on World War II, Hearts of Iron IV demands intricate strategic planning and resource management, aligning with key RTS elements. Its strong community and extensive modding capabilities contribute to its longevity.
- Total War: WARHAMMER III (166,754): This title blends the real-time tactical combat of Total War with the fantasy setting of Warhammer. The high concurrent player count reflects the popularity of both franchises and the unique gameplay experience they offer.
- Crusader Kings III (98,872): Often considered a grand strategy game, Crusader Kings III incorporates real-time elements in battles. However, its focus on long-term political maneuvering and character development sets it apart from more traditional RTS titles.
Important Considerations: This list is limited to Steam. Other platforms like Blizzard’s Battle.net (for StarCraft II) host massive RTS communities not reflected here. Furthermore, many classic RTS titles maintain devoted player bases despite lower concurrent player counts on modern platforms.
Ultimately, the “most played” RTS remains subjective and dependent on the metrics used. This Steam data provides a valuable perspective, but a complete picture requires considering broader factors and alternative platforms.
Why aren’t RTS popular anymore?
The RTS genre’s decline isn’t about the games themselves; it’s about the shifting landscape of gaming. Younger audiences gravitate towards twitch-based experiences prioritizing immediate gratification and flashy mechanics. RTS games, demanding strategic depth, intricate macro-management, and long-term planning, simply don’t offer the instant reward loop that many modern players crave. Think of the difference between the precise, calculated movements of a StarCraft army versus the visceral thrill of a Call of Duty firefight – the latter provides immediate sensory feedback and a faster sense of progression.
Furthermore, monetization strategies for RTS games haven’t kept pace with the industry. The traditional model of selling a complete game struggles against the prevailing popularity of live service games, battle passes, and microtransactions. Integrating these elements into RTS without disrupting the core gameplay balance is challenging, often leading to backlash from the dedicated fanbase who value a fair and balanced competitive experience.
The complexity of RTS also creates a higher barrier to entry. The steep learning curve can be daunting for casual players, while the time commitment required to master the intricacies of base building, resource management, and army composition discourages those seeking quicker, less demanding entertainment. This contrasts sharply with the more accessible gameplay loop found in many modern genres.
Finally, the lack of strong esports scenes for many RTS titles outside of established giants like StarCraft II and Dota 2 further contributes to their decline in mainstream popularity. A thriving esports scene provides a crucial platform for player engagement, community growth, and long-term sustainability, something many modern RTS struggle to achieve.
Is RTS good for brain?
Research, such as Zhang et al. (2015), using diffusion tensor imaging, indicates that Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games foster structural brain plasticity. This isn’t just anecdotal; it suggests that the demanding multitasking, strategic planning, and rapid decision-making inherent in RTS gameplay actively reshape brain structure, enhancing cognitive abilities. The improvements aren’t limited to in-game skills. Studies have shown correlations between RTS experience and improved performance in tasks requiring spatial reasoning, working memory, and problem-solving – skills crucial for success in many fields beyond gaming.
The cognitive load in RTS is exceptionally high. Players must simultaneously manage resource gathering, unit production, base construction, and tactical combat, demanding significant cognitive flexibility and executive function. This constant juggling of information and prioritization trains the brain to efficiently process and allocate attention, leading to measurable improvements in cognitive efficiency.
However, it’s crucial to note that correlation doesn’t equal causation. While the studies suggest a link between RTS and improved cognitive function, more research is needed to fully understand the causal relationship and the extent of the benefits. Factors like pre-existing cognitive abilities and the intensity of gameplay also play significant roles.
The type of RTS game and the player’s engagement level likely influence the effect. Highly competitive play, requiring continuous adaptation and strategic depth, may yield more significant cognitive benefits compared to casual play. The complexity of the game itself—the number of units, technologies, and strategic options—also likely contributes to the cognitive challenge and resulting plasticity.
Is RTS coming to an end?
The key takeaway: Yes, RTS is being decommissioned. The supporting infrastructure is being shut down on June 30th, 2025. This means that all meters reliant on RTS technology will cease to function as intended after that date.
Here’s what that means for you:
- No more automatic peak/off-peak switching: If your meter utilizes RTS, you’ll lose the automated rate switching capabilities. Expect a single, consistent rate for your electricity usage.
- Meter replacement likely: Electricity providers are likely undertaking significant meter upgrades. You might receive a new, smarter meter (often using different communication technologies like cellular or power line communication) before June 30th, 2025.
- Potential for increased bills (depending on your usage patterns): Without the off-peak rate benefit, your electricity costs could increase if you heavily use electricity during peak hours.
Why is this happening? RTS is an outdated technology. Maintaining it is increasingly costly and inefficient compared to newer, more reliable, and versatile smart meter technologies. This shutdown is part of a wider modernization of electricity grids aiming for improved efficiency and greater control.
Actionable steps:
- Contact your electricity provider: Confirm if your meter uses RTS and inquire about the upgrade process. Find out if they are providing any support or compensation for the change.
- Review your electricity usage: Understand your peak and off-peak usage patterns. This will help you budget for potentially higher electricity bills once the RTS system is switched off.
- Consider energy-saving measures: Implement strategies to reduce your electricity consumption, especially during peak hours, to mitigate the impact of the change.
What is the easiest RTS?
Choosing the “easiest” RTS is subjective, depending on your existing strategy game experience and preferred playstyle. However, several titles offer gentler learning curves for newcomers.
Halo Wars (4th): Its streamlined mechanics and unit control, combined with a focus on hero units, make it incredibly accessible. Excellent for understanding core RTS concepts without overwhelming complexity. The relatively small unit caps ease early-game management.
Age of Empires 4 (3rd): While boasting a rich history and diverse civilizations, AoE4 simplifies some aspects compared to its predecessors. Its campaign mode acts as an excellent tutorial, guiding you through essential mechanics. Focus on understanding economy and unit composition for early success.
Total War: Shogun 2 (5th): Shogun 2, while a Total War game, offers a relatively manageable introduction to the series. Its feudal Japan setting provides a clear understanding of the game’s core elements, though its strategic layer can still present a learning curve.
The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth (6th): This game brilliantly blends RTS gameplay with the beloved LOTR lore. Its unit diversity is manageable, and the strong emphasis on hero units simplifies early-game strategies. Its intuitive interface makes it easier to grasp unit commands.
Company of Heroes 3 (7th): Though a more complex game in the long run, CoH3’s tactical depth is surprisingly accessible due to its intuitive squad management. The campaign’s dynamic map introduces many concepts naturally. Focus on mastering squad positioning and tactical maneuvers.
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 (8th): A classic for a reason! Red Alert 2’s straightforward gameplay and clear unit roles offer an easy gateway to RTS. Mastering base building and resource management is key, and the distinct unit abilities are easy to learn.
StarCraft 2 (9th): While deceptively simple in its premise, StarCraft 2’s depth is formidable. The campaign provides a structured introduction, however, mastering its micro-management and complex strategic maneuvers takes significant dedication. Start with the Terran campaign for a generally easier introduction to the mechanics.
Hearts of Iron IV (10th): This grand strategy title offers a unique approach to RTS elements within its war-focused gameplay. While it’s the most complex game on this list, its extensive options and tutorials can mitigate this, allowing you to slowly introduce yourself to its complex systems. Start on the easiest difficulty and focus on learning the core mechanics of production and military organization.
What is the #1 most played video game?
Determining the #1 most played video game is tricky, as accurate, globally consistent data is scarce. Different metrics (unique players, total hours played, revenue) yield different results. However, several contenders consistently rank highly.
PUBG (PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds): While precise player counts are debated, PUBG undoubtedly boasts massive player numbers. Its battle royale formula revolutionized the gaming landscape, spawning countless imitators. Its success lies in its accessible yet strategic gameplay, fostering intense competition and memorable moments. It’s crucial to note that player numbers have fluctuated over time; peak numbers are often cited, not current active player counts.
Pac-Man: A classic arcade game with enduring appeal, Pac-Man’s longevity speaks volumes. Its simple yet addictive gameplay has captivated generations. The sheer number of arcades it graced, plus countless ports across various consoles and platforms, contributes significantly to its massive player count. However, accurately quantifying its total playtime across all versions over decades is nearly impossible.
Pokémon Go: This augmented reality sensation redefined mobile gaming. Its peak popularity involved millions of simultaneous players engaging in location-based gameplay. While active player counts are significantly lower than at its launch, its initial massive impact on the gaming world and culture cannot be ignored.
CrossFire: A popular first-person shooter, particularly prominent in Asia, CrossFire has maintained a substantial player base for years. Its free-to-play model and regular updates contribute to its longevity. However, like other games on this list, pinpointing the exact number of players across all regions is challenging.
Important Note: The provided list offers a snapshot in time. Player counts are dynamic and shift constantly. Games like Minecraft and Tetris, due to their timeless appeal and accessibility, also deserve consideration in any discussion of the most played games ever.
- Consider the Metrics: Active players vs. total players throughout history; concurrent players vs. total players ever.
- Regional Differences: Popularity fluctuates across regions, making global comparisons difficult.
- Data Accuracy: Reliable, consistent global data is rarely available for all games and platforms.
Is RTS network being phased out?
Yo, what’s up everyone? Big news regarding the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS). It’s getting the axe – completely phased out by the end of June 2025.
This is a serious deal for some of you. If you’re rocking an older electricity meter and using it to power your home heating and hot water, RTS might be your jam. If so, you’re about to lose that jam.
Here’s the lowdown:
- What is RTS? It’s an older system that uses radio signals to control your heating and hot water. Think of it as a very old-school smart home system, but way less cool.
- Why is it being switched off? Basically, it’s outdated technology. It’s inefficient, unreliable, and difficult to maintain.
- Who is affected? Only those using older electricity meters with RTS for heating and hot water. This isn’t a widespread issue, but definitely check if it’s *you*.
What you need to do:
- Find out if you’re affected. Contact your energy supplier ASAP. Don’t wait for this to sneak up on you in June 2025.
- Explore your options. Your energy supplier should offer solutions, whether it’s upgrading your meter or installing a new system. Get the details from them.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you need assistance navigating the upgrade process, reach out to your supplier. There are often support programs available.
Seriously, don’t sleep on this. Get informed and take action now. Your cozy winter nights depend on it.
Is there a downside to getting a smart meter?
Smart meters? Think of them as your energy team’s support infrastructure. They’re usually solid, delivering real-time data like a pro gamer’s ping. But, just like a network outage can lag your favourite online game, network disruptions can prevent data transmission to your supplier. It’s a rare “disconnect,” though – a minor glitch, not a game-ending crash. You’ve always got the fallback: a manual meter read, your ultimate clutch play to keep the energy flowing. This is your “offline mode,” ensuring you’re never totally out of the game.
Consider it this way: the smart meter is like having a dedicated, always-on coach providing constant stats. While generally reliable, rare network issues are the equivalent of a temporary server hiccup. It’s not ideal, but it’s hardly a showstopper. The manual reading capability is your backup strategy, ensuring you still manage your energy consumption even during unexpected downtime. Think of it as a second monitor – always there, always ready.
Do strategy games increase IQ?
Nah, that’s a load of academic BS. While those studies might show no *statistically significant* IQ boost from off-the-shelf games, they’re missing the point. They’re using blunt instruments to measure something incredibly nuanced. Sure, popping in *Civilization* for a few hours won’t suddenly make you a genius, but that’s not the point. Strategy games, especially complex ones with deep mechanics like *StarCraft II*, *Total War*, or even older classics like *Master of Orion II*, build *specific* cognitive skills. We’re talking multitasking, rapid decision-making under pressure, pattern recognition honed to a razor’s edge, and strategic thinking that translates into real-world problem-solving. These games are intense mental workouts that train your brain in ways standardized IQ tests simply can’t capture.
The studies are also often flawed; they focus on short-term effects and don’t account for long-term engagement. Think about the countless hours dedicated to mastering a specific game’s meta, adapting to new patches, and developing advanced strategies. That’s years of constant cognitive training. It’s not about raw IQ points, it’s about building mental resilience, improving focus, and developing an analytical mind. You won’t see it on a Wechsler-Bellevue, but you’ll feel it when you’re facing a challenging real-world scenario – needing to think on your feet, assess risk, and plan multiple steps ahead. So yeah, maybe it doesn’t raise your IQ number, but it sharpens your mind in ways that matter more than any test score.
The key is *engagement* and *dedication*. Casual gaming won’t cut it. It’s about truly immersing yourself in the game’s complexity, mastering its systems, and pushing your cognitive limits. Think of it like weightlifting for your brain. You wouldn’t expect to bench press 300 lbs after one session, would you? Same goes for boosting cognitive skills. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
How hard are RTS games?
RTS games have a deceptive learning curve. The single-player campaigns are generally designed to ease you in, offering adjustable difficulty settings. Don’t let this fool you though. Mastering an RTS is a marathon, not a sprint. The core mechanics are relatively straightforward – building bases, gathering resources, producing units, and battling – but the strategic depth is immense.
What truly separates the casual player from the pro is micro-management and macro-strategic thinking. Micro involves precise control of individual units in combat, reacting to changing battlefield conditions in real-time. This requires quick reflexes and sharp decision-making under pressure. Macro is about the bigger picture: managing your economy, researching upgrades, expanding your base, and anticipating your opponent’s moves. It’s about long-term planning and efficient resource allocation.
Many top-tier RTS players dedicate countless hours to perfecting these skills. They study replays of professional matches, analyze their own gameplay for weaknesses, and practice consistently. It’s a constant process of learning and refinement. The best players are not just good at the game, but masters of strategy, possessing keen instincts and the ability to adapt their tactics on the fly.
Don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. Focus on understanding the fundamental mechanics, gradually increasing the difficulty, and analyzing your mistakes. The reward for mastering an RTS is immense; the feeling of outmaneuvering a skilled opponent through superior strategy is unlike any other gaming experience.
Is Economy 7 going to be phased out?
The Economy 7 tariff, a relic of a bygone era of coal-fired power plants, is indeed sunsetting in the UK. Think of it as a veteran RPG character finally retiring after decades of loyal service. While the government aims for a complete coal power plant shutdown by 2030, this isn’t a total wipe-out of off-peak energy pricing; it’s more of a rebalancing. The game mechanics are changing. We’re seeing a shift away from the classic Economy 7’s distinct two-tiered system. Expect to see new, more dynamic energy pricing strategies emerge, potentially involving smart meters and time-of-use tariffs that adjust based on real-time energy demand – a far cry from the simpler, predictable mechanics of the older system. This transition is analogous to a major game update, where the core gameplay loop remains, but the details are significantly revamped for improved efficiency and sustainability. This means players (consumers) need to adapt their energy consumption strategies, much like adapting builds and strategies in a changing game meta.
While the old Economy 7 might be entering the digital graveyard, the underlying concept of cheaper off-peak electricity isn’t disappearing entirely. Consider it a legacy feature receiving a major overhaul, rather than a complete deletion. Expect a new generation of smarter, more responsive off-peak tariffs – a fresh new expansion pack, if you will, built upon the foundations of the old system.
Why is RTS being switched off?
The cessation of RTS functionality stems from its reliance on longwave radio signals, a technology the BBC, and indeed much of the broadcasting world, is phasing out. Think of it like this: RTS was piggybacking on an aging infrastructure.
Why the shift away from longwave? Several factors contribute to longwave’s obsolescence:
- Inefficiency: Longwave is incredibly power-hungry. Maintaining the infrastructure is expensive and environmentally unsustainable compared to modern digital alternatives.
- Limited Bandwidth: Longwave simply can’t handle the data demands of modern broadcasting. Think of it like trying to fit a high-definition movie onto a cassette tape – it’s just not designed for it.
- Technological Advancements: Digital broadcasting methods, such as DAB and online streaming, offer superior sound quality, greater flexibility, and more efficient use of the radio spectrum.
The BBC’s move away from longwave is part of a broader global trend. This means the radio frequencies RTS depended on are being reallocated for other uses, rendering the system unreliable and eventually unusable. It’s not a sudden switch-off, but rather a gradual decline in signal stability that ultimately makes RTS functionality impossible to maintain.
In short: RTS isn’t being actively “switched off” in the sense of a deliberate action, but rather it’s becoming functionally obsolete due to the underlying infrastructure’s obsolescence. It’s a casualty of technological progress and the evolution of broadcasting standards.
What this means for you: If you relied on RTS, you’ll need to find alternative solutions, perhaps exploring updated communication methods.
What if I don’t want a smart meter?
Refusing a smart meter? Consider this your PvP guide to energy independence. You absolutely have the right to opt out. Don’t let your supplier bully you; their claims of mandatory installation are often bluff. Contact Citizens Advice or your equivalent consumer protection agency immediately if pressured. They’re your healers in this battle.
The downsides? Limited tariff access. This is the real cost. Smart meter data allows suppliers to offer time-of-use and other dynamic tariffs, often resulting in cost savings. Without one, you’re locked into standard tariffs – think of it as a debuff to your wallet. Carefully weigh the potential cost increase against your privacy concerns. Consider this your threat assessment.
Pro Tip: Explore alternative strategies. You may be able to negotiate a different kind of meter or even a delay in installation, depending on your situation. It’s a negotiation, not a war.
Advanced Tactics: Research your region’s energy regulations. They’re your strategy guide. Knowledge is power in this fight.
Is Economy 7 worth keeping?
Economy 7 – is it still a viable option in the modern energy landscape? The short answer is: it depends. This tariff hinges on your electricity usage patterns. Are you a night owl when it comes to energy consumption? If so, Economy 7 could be your secret weapon.
The Core Concept: Economy 7 offers cheaper electricity during off-peak hours (typically overnight) and a higher rate during peak times (daytime). The real savings are unlocked by shifting your energy-intensive activities to the night.
Who Benefits Most?
- Electric Storage Heaters: The classic Economy 7 user. Charging your storage heater overnight with cheap electricity and releasing that stored heat throughout the day is the original use case, offering significant potential savings.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Owners: Charging your EV overnight takes advantage of the lower nighttime rates, potentially slashing your charging costs considerably.
- Time-Shifting Appliances: Consider appliances you can schedule to run overnight – water heaters, washing machines, etc. This requires some planning but maximizes your savings.
Factors Affecting Savings:
- Your Usage Pattern: If your daytime energy consumption significantly outweighs your nighttime usage, Economy 7 may not be advantageous.
- Tariff Variations: Rates vary drastically between energy suppliers. Thorough price comparison across different Economy 7 tariffs is essential. Look beyond the headline rate; examine the total cost over your typical energy consumption.
- Smart Meters: Smart meters offer precise usage tracking, enabling better monitoring of your energy consumption and informing smarter choices about your tariff.
In short: Don’t blindly assume Economy 7 is obsolete. With careful planning and a strategic approach, it can still deliver substantial savings. But always compare multiple tariffs to ensure it’s the right fit for your energy profile.
What boosts IQ the most?
Level up your cognitive game, bro! Forget boring textbooks; we’re talking serious brainpower boosts here. Think of your brain as your ultimate esports rig – needs constant upgrades to dominate the competition.
Master a musical instrument: Improves reaction time and coordination, crucial for clutch plays. Think insane APM in StarCraft!
Memory training: Essential for strategic planning and remembering enemy builds/strategies in Dota 2 or League of Legends. Practice memorization techniques, not just rote learning.
Visuospatial skills: Dominate the map! Improved spatial awareness is key for navigating complex game environments like PUBG or Fortnite.
Learn a new language: Broadens your horizons and improves multitasking, crucial for managing resources and communicating in team-based games.
Devour books: Not just any books – strategy guides, biographies of successful gamers, articles on game design. Analyze enemy playstyles, improve your own.
Executive control: This is your decision-making process under pressure – stay calm, make the right calls even when you’re down in CS:GO.
Relational skills: Teamwork makes the dream work! Strong communication and collaboration are essential for winning in any team game.
Study: Not just school stuff. Analyze replays, learn from your mistakes, study pro player strategies. Become a gaming scholar!
