Probably the most overlooked genre, tower defense games are best known for their popularity in the rebirth of the Flash gaming era. However, over the past decade the genre has seen some of its best games. Unfortunately, with so many indie and AAA games bogged down in digital and physical game stores, many glorious TD titles tend not to play. So, to make your life easier, here is a look at the handful of righteous people who deserve your attention.
Defense grid 2
via Steamplatforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch et PC
Perhaps the most visually pleasing on the list, this sci-fi title casts players into the role of a space station commander, to prevent waves of robotic aliens landing on a variety of bases. It's a much more in-depth approach to the genre, as you'll have to constantly keep an eye on your upgradable weapons - of which there are ridiculous amounts. The title is a lot more serious than the others here, as it has a full story mode, with lots of tough missions ahead.
Plants vs Zombies 2
via Polygonplatforms: iOS and Android
Of course, there are other spinoffs and sequels we could choose from, but nothing has quite felt the same since Plants vs Zombies 2. The game's soundtrack and wacky gameplay make the game better than most tower defenses. It doesn't differ much from its cult classic predecessor, but it does fill in what was missing before. On the one hand, level designs are easier on the eyes, as each world has its own dynamic theme and enemies. So even though this is a mobile exclusive title, you will find yourself playing for hours on end wherever you are.
Castlestorm
via PlayStationplatforms: iOS, Android, PS4, PS3, PS Vita, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch et PC.
Zen Studio's ChateauStorm is primarily for those who want the iconic medieval castle battles. As users maintain their fort, their primary responsibilities are usually to drop cannonballs into enemy territory, while also finding creative ways to stop arriving soldiers. As you can imagine, the title shares most of its traits from games like Angry Birds, but that doesn't mean it won't clean up your palette. The real-time strategy game offers a number of fantastic modes, so you can always be on your toes.
Bloon TD 6
platforms: iOS, Android and PC
Another series born out of the great Flash game boom of the early 2000s, the sixth main installment proves why the series still holds up after all this time. It's still as simplistic as you remember it, as you'll take control of an army of monkeys who are tasked with preventing a variety of deadly balloons from advancing until the end of a level path. Those who succeed can then add cannons and archers to help you. However, what is so fascinating about Bloon TD 6 is its dazzling graphics update, which makes it difficult to revert to old titles.
Kingdom Rush: Frontiers
via Nintendoplatforms: iOS, Android, PC, Mac and Nintendo Switch
If your primary console is the Nintendo Switch, look no further. It's the same experience on other platforms, but it's easily one of the best tower defenses on the eShop. Kingdom Rush: Frontiers is best described as a cartoon sci-fi war simulator, with absurd tower defense elements. Like Bloons TD, you'll walk a path, but with dozens of soldiers, gorillas, ninjas, and more, destroying your weapons. Don't worry: users can also unlock these characters and use them to their advantage. It's a quick TD title that really masters the best features of the genre.
The orcs must die! 2
via Steamplatforms: PC
Well, the title really says it all, but it's a different take on the genre. Instead of the traditional top-down camera, the game chooses to switch to third person, as you'll take on the form of a sorcerer or spell-wielding mage. The biggest twist, however, is its strategic monetary system. Users will have to spend their money wisely, as this is the only way to buy and set well-placed traps. In turn, traps and spells make it possible to kill passionately bloody orcs, as you protect your holy dungeon.
Sanctuary
via Rock Paper Shotgunplatforms: PC and Mac.
We cannot stress enough that Sanctuary is truly a diamond in the rough. The underground game combines spectacular first-person shooter gameplay with more than enough wave defense options to make it eligible for this list. Sanctuary gamers will surely wish more games explored this FPS aspect, as they will feel a lot more immersed in the action. We think any PC or Mac owner should really give it a try, as the eight-year-old gem rarely shows any signs of aging.
