Dive into D-Day’s History Through the Best PC Wargames

The Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day, June 6, 1944, stands as a turning point in World War II. It’s no surprise then that this historic event has fueled countless stories across all forms of media. But for an immersive experience that blends historical accuracy with thrilling gameplay, look no further than PC wargames.

The best D-Day wargames transport players right into the heart of the action. These games recreate the battles – from the brutal fight for Omaha Beach to daring airborne assaults behind enemy lines. They offer a unique perspective on this critical chapter of World War II, allowing players to experience the intensity and heroism of D-Day firsthand.

Disclaimer:

I reached out to Wargame Design Studio letting them know I was going to write this list and that their games would be showing up. They were kind enough to sponsor this article. These are still my genuine opinions on their titles, and you can see that for a long time, I’ve been ranking their games on other lists. Go and pay them a visit. They’re a great company.

Update: Normandy 44′ Gold is currently WDS’s Game of the Week and its currently going for $29.95, a steal for the amount of content it has! Go show WDS some love and get the game!

15 – Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines – A Nostalgic Blast of D-Day Covert Ops

Commandos offers a nostalgic journey back to the early days of WW2 video games. For a unique twist on the D-Day experience, look no further than the classic 1998 title, Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines. Here’s why it stands out:

Pioneering Pre-D-Day Stealth:

In the realm of World War 2 D-Day, the classic Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines stands out for its unique take on covert operations along the Normandy coast, even predating others, more renowned D-Day-focused titles like Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. You control a special forces team tasked with sabotaging crucial enemy defences along the Normandy coast.

Historical Accuracy with a Twist:

Released before Saving Private Ryan’s iconic portrayal of D-Day (1998), Commandos offers a slightly different historical perspective. The ubiquitous “Schnabelstand” bunkers, heavily featured in later media, were not as prevalent on the real beaches. This provides an interesting historical snapshot from the pre-Spielberg era.

Nostalgia for Veterans of WW2 Gaming:

Although controls might feel dated compared to modern games, revisiting Commandos offers a nostalgic journey back to the early days of WW2 video games. It’s a great choice for players who enjoy revisiting classic titles and experiencing a different perspective on the D-Day narrative.

14 – Steel Division: Normandy 44 – A Deep Dive for D-Day Strategy Fans

I don’t think any Best D-Day Games List is complete without including the interesting Steel Division: Normandy 44 from Eugen and Paradox. Released in 2017- it was the first game I have ever reviewed– Steel Division: Normandy 44 transports players to the bocage-ridden fields of Normandy.

Fresh Take on D-Day Strategy:

Unlike other, more traditional real-time strategy, steel Division Normandy 44 does things a bit differently. Instead of zooming in too much or too little, Steel Division captures an almost perfect middle ground between the squad-focused action of titles like Company of Heroes or Men of War, and of other, more abstract games like The Operational Art of War. Engagements happen at long distances, reconnaissance is fundamental, and combined warfare manoeuvres are fulcral to success.

Detailed World and Diverse Units:

Steel Division’s photo-based maps come to life with exquisite detail, and the extensive unit selection and the mix and mash that’s possible by pitting several different divisions against one another perfectly cater to those who love to experiment with history.

The game’s innovative three-phase campaign system effectively mirrors the progression of real-world military operations. You’ll start with initial troop deployments, followed by intense battles, culminating with the arrival of heavy reinforcements.

Budget-Friendly D-Day Experience:

Steel Division: Normandy 44 frequently goes on sale, making it a great choice for budget-minded D-Day strategy enthusiasts. We’re nearing the Steam Summer Sale, so keep an eye out for it!

13 – Company of Heroes: Experience D-Day’s Intensity in Real-Time

Company of Heroes (CoH) isn’t your typical wargame, as it’s more of an RTS, but it offers a thrilling, action-packed take on D-Day for strategy fans that shouldn’t be missed. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Hollywood-Inspired D-Day Landing:

Company of Heroes 1 is often likened to a real-time strategy (RTS) rendition of Hollywood war movies, and the unwritten rule is that if your game is taking cues from Hollywood, you have to start your World War 2 campaign with the D-Day landings. Of course, Company of Heroes opens up with the iconic Ranger-filled Higgins storming Omaha. Upon hitting the shore, players face the immediate challenge of leading their troops forward amidst the chaos of battle.

Squad-Based Combat with Tactical Depth:

The following missions are about Fox Company and their drive towards capturing and defending the critical town of Carentan, then Able and Dog advance on Cherbourg and Saint-Lô, with the Campaign action culminating in the action around the Falaise Pocket. Company of Heroes isn’t a realistic wargame by any means, but it absolutely nails down the basics of squad-based combat around the 4Fs – Find, Fix, Flank and Finish.

Its innovative cover system and laser focus exclusively on small-scale but intense action make Company of Heroes one of the best games you can play to this very day, especially if you’re looking to scratch that D-Day itch.

A Nostalgic Favorite with Lasting Appeal:

Despite its age (15 years old!), CoH’s innovative cover system and action-oriented gameplay still hold up today. It’s a fantastic choice for players looking for a fast-paced, strategic D-Day experience, especially for those who might be new to wargames and prefer a more accessible entry point.

12 – Beyond D-Day: Medal of Honor: Allied Assault Redefines the WW2 FPS

Nowadays, a World War 2 first-person shooter set in the Western Front without the titular D-Day Invasion just doesn’t feel right, and it’s all thanks to Medal of Honor: Allied Assault. Here’s why you should try it:

Pioneering the D-Day Experience:

Inspired by Saving Private Ryan (1998), Medal of Honor wasn’t the first D-Day game, but it was the most spectacular at the time. Playing as OSS operative Mike Powell, assigned to the 2nd Ranger Battalion you charge Omaha Beach in a now-iconic mission that’s still hauntingly intense and beautifully crafted, even 20 years later.

Intensity You Can Feel:

The Operation Overlord mission starts up with the spine-chilling “Clear the ramp! 30 seconds!”, and not a second later, the ramp drops and the front row is mowed down by German machine gun fire. What follows is one of first-person shooters’ most iconic missions as you fight your way off the beach, dodging MG-42 bursts and hiding behind hedgehogs. You reach the relative safety of the shingle just to be commanded to go back to grab a couple of bangalore’s and to once again rush the German positions. It’s so well-paced and it’s so well done it’s amazing. You owe it to yourself to try it at least once.

A Must-Play for History Buffs and FPS Fans:

The game’s Normandy mission will last you around 1 to 2 hours after the landing is done, as you fight your way through Villers-Bocage. Whether you’re a history buff or simply enjoy a great FPS experience, Medal of Honor: Allied Assault deserves a place in your gaming library. It’s a landmark title that continues to hold up even today.

11 – Wargame Design Studio Normandy ’44 Gold: Command the D-Day Offensive in this Operational Wargame

For strategy buffs seeking a deep dive into D-Day’s strategic landscape, look no further than Normandy ’44 Gold by Wargame Design Studio.

Operational Focus: You’re the Commander Now:

Unlike other Wargame Design Studio titles like Eagles Strike and Battles of Normandy, Normandy ’44 Gold shifts the focus from squad-level tactics to true operational-level command set during the “Great Crusade”. You’ll take the reins as a battlefield commander, overseeing the “big picture” and making crucial strategic decisions throughout the D-Day campaign- You’re no longer Lieutenant Winters leading Easy Company during the jumps, but instead, you’re taking the Mantle of Omar Bradley and commanding an entire Army. Normandy ’44 is part of what is- probably- Wargame Design Studio’s most famous series of titles, the Panzer Campaigns.

Hex-and-Counter with a Grander Scale:

Normandy ’44 Gold utilizes a classic hex-and-counter system but with a significant scale increase. Units represent companies and battalions operating on a 1-kilometre hex grid. This shift in scale demands a different approach compared to the studio’s other titles.

Embrace the Slow Burn, Master the Challenge:

Normandy ’44 Gold will make you trudge your way through the bocage-ridden French countryside and force you to think as a real commander, particularly in those bigger missions. While Normandy ’44 Gold might seem daunting at first glance, its strategic depth offers a rewarding experience for patient players. Take your time, carefully plan your moves, and relish the satisfaction of outsmarting your opponent over a relaxing Friday night session.

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