Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Dark Crusade

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Dark Crusade expanded the original game with a revolutionary strategic campaign where all seven factions competed for control of the planet Kronus. The "Risk-style" strategic layer between battles created a new template for Warhammer 40,000 campaigns that influenced future games.

The Tau and Necrons joined the roster as playable factions, dramatically different from the existing races. The Tau emphasized ranged firepower and technology, while Necrons brought relentless mechanical warriors that self-repaired. The strategic campaign gave each faction unique stronghold missions.

The meta-campaign structure allowed players to conquer territories, develop forces, and face unique challenges for each enemy faction's headquarters. The non-linear progression created replay value through different conquest paths.

Dark Crusade represents a high point for the Dawn of War series, combining excellent faction variety with innovative campaign structure. The strategic layer template would be refined in Soulstorm and influence subsequent games.