Tower Defense Games: Master of Fortresses Review and Tips

Introduction to Master of Fortresses

Master of Fortresses stands out in the crowded field of tower defense games. Unlike traditional tower defense games, this one requires players to build and defend a fortress, adding a unique twist to the genre. The game is highly addictive, and I found myself playing it to the very end, even in endless mode.

Unique Features of Master of Fortresses

Realistic Building Mechanics

One of the most distinctive features of Master of Fortresses is its realistic building mechanics. Players must place palisades beneath every firing unit, including cannons. For cannons, you also need to build a bastion. This adds a layer of complexity and realism to the game. For example, with British troops, the cost to set up a cannon can be significantly higher than the cannon itself. Here's a breakdown:

This can be a surprise for those accustomed to traditional tower defense games.

Upgrading Troops and Cannons

Upgrading your troops and cannons is crucial for survival. For instance, if you're playing as the British, you can upgrade Militia to Red Coats and then to Green Jackets, who are excellent snipers. The upgrade costs are higher than the initial unit costs, but the game provides enough resources to make these upgrades feasible.

Strategy Tips

Choosing Your Side

I often played as the British, who have the most expensive but powerful troops. However, these strategies should work for other sides as well.

Initial Setup

• Positioning: Set your defenses in "choke points" whenever possible. If not, place your first defenses at least three squares away from your base to allow room for bastions and cannons later.
• Basic Troops: Start with basic troops on palisades and upgrade them as soon as possible. Once upgraded, you can begin building bastions and deploying cannons.

Advanced Tactics

• Barricades: If you see engineers among the attacking units, place barricades before your palisades. Engineers are tough and will break through buildings, so it's better to lose a cheap barricade than an expensive palisade.
• Traps: Utilize various traps, especially in later waves.
• Puckle Guns: These act like machine guns, firing rapidly and covering a good range. They can be lifesavers.
• Rotating Bastions: You can rotate bastions to face the direction from which the majority of enemies will come.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Mazes: Unlike other tower defense games, creating a maze is not effective. The enemies will destroy any obstacles they encounter.

Conclusion

Master of Fortresses is an addictive and well-crafted tower defense game with a variety of troops, upgrades, and strategies. While I've shared my tactics, the game offers plenty of room for you to develop your own unique strategies. For more information and to play the game, check out the resource box below. Have fun!

Interesting Stats

• Market Size: The global tower defense games market was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10% from 2021 to 2026 (source).
• Player Engagement: According to a survey, 65% of tower defense game players spend more than 5 hours a week playing these games (source).

For more insights into the world of tower defense games, you can visit IGN and PC Gamer.

Feel free to dive into the game and explore its unique features and strategies. Happy gaming!