9. Command and Conquer: Red Alert 3 (2008)

Fast paced and brutal

Developer: EA Los Angeles

Genre: Real-time strategy

Naval combat and base building has always been a staple of the series

In an attempt to save themselves from an impending defeat, the Soviets use a time machine to alter the past. Unfortunately, their actions only gave birth to the Japanese Empire of the Rising Sun, guaranteeing that the impending war will be bloodier than anything that came before.

The core concept, though, is still the same. By using a familiar constructive interface, you build up your camp and attempt to rush your opponent before he rushes you. If none of you gets wiped within the first ten minutes or so, then you may proceed toward more advanced weaponry, and the game becomes even crazier.

Red Alert 3 offers the most refined and enjoyable gameplay of any CnC game, period. The units have been well thought out and implemented even better. The naval combat is actually exciting and never feels remotely like a chore. The addition of a third side didn’t hurt the balance one bit. Instead, it only brought more variety.