Top-5 Alternatives to 'World of Tanks': Exploring the Battlefield

'World of Tanks' has been a dominant force in the world of MMO (massively multiplayer online) tank games for many years. Its blend of tactical combat, detailed historical accuracy, and an immense variety of vehicles have made it a favorite among fans. But what if you're looking for something different? Whether you want a change of scenery, more modern warfare, or just feel like trying something new, there are plenty of alternatives out there. Here are our top five picks.

1. War Thunder

Introduction to War Thunder

War Thunder is often considered World of Tank's main competitor in terms of MMO military games. It offers a broader scope than WoT as it incorporates air and sea battles alongside ground warfare.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

In War Thunder, players can take control not only of tanks but also aircraft and naval vessels, providing much more varied gameplay. The game includes over 1500 playable vehicles from various nations, including the USA, Germany, the Soviet Union, Britain, and Japan. Unlike World of Tanks, which focuses solely on tank warfare, War Thunder allows for massive combined arms battles where you could be battling tanks on the ground one moment and then switching to an airplane for aerial combat the next. The game is set during the same time period as World of Tanks - from pre-WWII to the Cold War era - but does not follow a specific storyline, allowing players to create their own narratives based on their actions and experiences in-game.

2. Armored Warfare

Introduction to Armored Warfare

If you're looking for a more modern-tank experience compared to World of Tanks' mid-20th century focus, Armored Warfare might be your best bet.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

Armored Warfare is a free-to-play MMO that focuses on modern tank warfare. Players can choose from a vast array of tanks and armored vehicles from the 1950s all the way to the present day. The gameplay is similar to World of Tanks but with some added features such as dynamic environments that can be altered by player actions, advanced customization options for vehicles, and a PvE (Player versus Environment) mode. Set in a modern-day world, Armored Warfare provides players with various scenarios and missions based on real-world events or possible future conflicts.

3. Steel Armor: Blaze of War

Introduction to Steel Armor: Blaze of War

For those looking for a more realistic tank simulation game compared to the arcade-style combat of World of Tanks, Steel Armor: Blaze of War might be an interesting option.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

Steel Armor: Blaze of War offers an intense simulation experience where players take control not just over the tank itself but also its crew members. This adds another layer of depth as players must manage their crew's morale, skills, and even health. The game is set during three significant military operations - Operation Star during the Soviet-Afghan war, Iran-Iraq war in Operation Evening Light, and Angola Civil War's Operation Hooper.

4. World of Warships

Introduction to World of Warships

From the same creators as World of Tanks comes World Of Warships. It offers similar gameplay mechanics but instead focuses on naval warfare.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

World Of Warships allows players to take command over naval vessels, including destroyers, cruisers, battleships, and aircraft carriers from various nations during the WWII era. Like World of Tanks, the game doesn't follow a specific storyline but rather allows players to create their own narratives based on their actions and experiences in-game. The gameplay is slow-paced and strategic, requiring careful planning and execution.

5. Tank Force

Introduction to Tank Force

Tank Force is another modern take on tank warfare that offers similar gameplay to World of Tanks but with modern vehicles and technology.

Gameplay, Story, and Setting

Tank Force is a free-to-play MMO that focuses heavily on team-based tactics and strategy. Players can choose from a wide range of tanks from various countries, including the USA, Russia, and China.

The game features realistic graphics, destructible environments, and advanced damage models for tanks. Set on different battlefields around the world, the game doesn't have a specific storyline but offers various missions and tasks for players to complete.

Whether you're into historical battles or prefer more modern settings, whether you enjoy strategy-heavy simulations or fast-paced action games, there's likely an alternative to 'World of Tanks out there that will suit your preferences.