The Thrilling Alternative Combat: Top 5 Raw Rivals to "World of Tanks"

World of Tanks is one of the most loved warfare games due to its immersive gameplay, professional scene and intense battles. But if you want a break from tank warfare or looking for similar potent games with a slightly different setting and gameplay, read on. We have curated the top 5 alternative games to "World of Tanks" that capture the essence of the thrill, strategy, and tactical maneuvering that is the hallmark of this genre.

1. War Thunder

War Thunder is a combat-filled multiplayer game developed by Gaijin Entertainment. Its realistic battles, variety of vehicles, and the addition of aircraft and naval crafts make it one of the best alternatives to World of Tanks.

Gameplay

War Thunder offers an engaging mix of air, land, and sea battles. Players can engage in stimulating fights using tanks, planes, ships, and even helicopters. The game offers various modes such as arcade mode, realistic mode, and simulator mode. The three modes vary in levels of realism and difficulty, thereby catering to a wide range of players. The ground combat in War Thunder is very satisfying with detailed damage models and a wide array of tanks and armored vehicles.

Story and Setting

The game does not follow a specific storyline but runs in an ongoing war setting that offers numerous maps designed on real geographic locations. These invigorating maps from World War II era to the Korean War and beyond offer a rich combat experience.

2. Armored Warfare

Armored Warfare is an innovative game by Obsidian Entertainment and is a strong rival to World of Tanks. Its modern setting, along with its stunning graphics and Freedom of role choice, make it interesting.

Gameplay

The gameplay of Armored Warfare is highly mechanized and strategic. Players have the liberty to choose different roles such as long-range snipers, agile scouts, or heavy brawlers. The game stands out due to its use of modern technology warfare including ATGMs, APS, ERA, and much more. The PvE missions bring an added element to the game, offering a cooperative mode away from the traditional player vs player.

Story and Setting

Armored Warfare takes place in a not-so-distant future wherein players choose contracts and battle against AI faction opponents. The setting feels quite contemporary, making a significant departure from the usual WWII era in tank games.

3. World of Warships

If you're looking to take a break from land warfare and explore naval battles, World of Warships is a worthy alternative. Developed by Wargaming, the same developer as World of Tanks, it offers an enticing sea warfare experience.

Gameplay

World of Warships boasts over 300 historical naval vessels for the players to play with. It's all about strategy as you micromanage these lethal warships, balance the ship weight, speed, firepower, and endurance. Players can customize each ship, modify them to suit their tactical needs. The game also includes real-time weather effects, further adding to its realism and complexity.

Story and Setting

This game doesn't follow a conventional storyline but threads on an endless sea battle scenario. The vessels and maps are modeled after real-world locations and ships, and each ship detail is a replica of their real-world counterpart.

4. Crossout

For gamers who enjoy a post-apocalyptic setting, Crossout by Targem Games is an exciting alternative to World of Tanks. The unique blend of vehicle combat and crafting mechanics makes this game stand out.

Gameplay

In Crossout, Players build, customize and upgrade their armored vehicles using the extensive crafting system, and then battle against other players in PvP combat. The game offers a wide range of weapon racks that you can bolt to your vehicle, from chainsaws to rocket launchers and everything in between.

Story and Setting

The game sets in a post-apocalyptic world where resources are scarce and battles are waged for the last remaining assets. This creates a Mad-Max like ambiance and adds a unique twist to the tactical warfare genre.

5. PlanetSide 2

If you want to experience tank warfare on a massive scale, then PlanetSide 2 should be your pick. The game is a first-person shooter game that mixes in warfare strategies and tactical gameplay splendidly.

Gameplay

PlanetSide 2 offers battles on an epic scale, with thousands of players battling in a single conflict. The game offers six classes to choose from, with different play style each. Every class has its vehicles, weapons, and play styles. It also places a heavy emphasis on teamwork, making it a great game to play with friends or a coordinated team.

Story and Setting

The game is set on the planet Auraxis where three factions are entangled in perpetual warfare. This creates a deep narrative, giving a more immersive experience to the players.

In conclusion, while World of Tanks holds its unique charm for armored battle enthusiasts, these five alternatives each bring their flavors to the genre. So whether you prefer modern warfare, air and sea battles, post-apocalyptic combat, or grand scale warfare, there's an alternative game waiting for your conquest.