#31
'Age of Mythology (& Titans expansion)'
for the PC released in 2002.
Perhaps the best real-time strategy game ever made, by perhaps the best studio in the genre. 'Age of Mythology' is set in early antiquity and puts the ancient Egyptians, the old Greek and the primitive Norse against each other in warfare. With the expansion, that ensemble is enhanced by the mysterious Atlantians. While at least the original three civilisations are at their base inspired off real-world ancient civilisations, the emphysis in placed on the mythical, on the powers of the Gods.
What's best about the game, is that each civilisation is fundamentally different. Each with their own units, unit-types, buildings and tech-trees. Within each civilisations, are three sub-civilisations each worshipping their own particular God. For example, the Greek civilisation has a choice of Zeus, Poseidon and Hades as their main God. Choosing a God is half the strategy, as it unlocks specific tech and units and off course, their own 'God-Power'. Advancing ages works the same, but Gods overlap.
All this variety makes for a game that requires a lot of strategic thinking. More than ever, one must know their enemy and know their strenghts and weaknesses. The mythical setting allows for some extremely cool unit-designs and each player will find their favorite path through the many combinations of Gods to choose when advancing. On top of that, the game looked amazing and played flawlessly.
#30 Hint
Riding up a cliff in the wrong angle will send you flying.