Top 30 Best Strategy Games To Play In 2024
Strategy games are possibly the most popular gaming genre and each one of us gamers has spent a good chunk of our time playing titles like AOE and Stronghold back in the day. And well, if you aren’t up to speed on the latest and most popular titles of modern-day gaming, you’ll truly find some gems here.
If you’re on the quest to find the best strategy games on the market, we’ve got you covered. Our experts have left no stone unturned in finding the finest strategy games out there. From real-time strategy games to iconic turn-based titles, we’ve gone all out to ensure no genre is overlooked and no epic game forgotten.
Often, finding the right place to purchase games can be a bit of a pickle but you can rely on Eneba marketplace to find almost every AAA title on the market at a jaw-dropping price.
Top Picks: Best Strategy Games
Strategy games push your strategic thinking to the limit, offering everything from sweeping historical campaigns to intense tactical skirmishes. Explore our must-play lineup, where stealthy operations on planet Earth mix with intergalactic conquests:
- Tropico 6 – tropical dictatorship simulation with a focus on building and managing an island nation.
- Commandos 2 – real-time tactics game with a focus on stealth and infiltration.
- Door Kickers – tactical squad-based action game with a focus on planning and execution.
- Desperados III – tactical stealth game set in the Wild West.
- Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun – tactical stealth game set in feudal Japan.
- Company of Heroes 3 – real-time strategy set in World War II with a focus on tactical battles.
- Old World – historical grand strategy with a focus on dynasty management and political intrigue.
- Galactic Civilizations IV – 4X strategy: exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination.
- Endless Legend – turn-based strategy with a focus on exploration, diplomacy, and faction-specific abilities.
- Age of Wonders 4 – turn-based strategy with a fantasy setting and a focus on magic and hero units.
Continue reading to find our full list of strategy games celebrated as some of the best in the genre and find a game that’s right for you!
The Appeal Of Strategy Games: Why Gamers Love Strategy
Some people play strategy games to sharpen their wits and outperform their nemesis and reduce them to dust, and with each win, they feel a jolt in their brain which feels like a shot of caffeine to them and they keep coming back to it.
Other less competitive players like myself, we prefer to get lost in strategy games and spend a good few hours playing our favorite games and testing our intellect in building towns, raising armies, and solving matters of national security with a few blades and shields.
With other genres like open-world and FPS games, things tend to be a bit repetitive and you feel a bit bored after a while. However, when you’re deep into a strategy game and everything’s unfolding in real-time, it’s like a breath of fresh air for your brain. After sinking over 500 hours into Age of Empires II, I can confidently say that once you get hooked on strategy games, there’s no turning back.
What Defines A Strategy Game?
Defining a strategy game isn’t complicated, it’s the sub-genres that’ll get you.
In layman’s terms, strategy games have a strong emphasis on planning and building resources from scratch and you’re expected to make tactical decisions in real-time to keep running all the operations smoothly. In other genres like first-person shooter games, you’re expected to hack-n-slash your way to the final and call it a day.
Planning and implementing your strategies are an integral part of strategy games and whether you’re playing against offline bots or competing in multiplayer battles, you’re expected to outwit your enemies and use well-considered approaches to do it.
Strategy games are divided into a variety of sub-genres. From real-time strategy games like Age of Empires to retro turn-based combat strategy games like Final Fantasy, It’s easy to become immersed in this genre.
And the sub-genres don’t stop there; you’ll discover hidden gems in 4X strategy, tactical strategy, and tower defense games as well.
How Did We Choose The Best Strategy Games?
Our experts have spent a good few hours digging out the best strategy games out there and we based our rankings on multiple features. In-game mechanics and strategic depth, ensuring each game is well-regarded by the community and has received positive feedback.
Replayability also played a pivotal role because with some strategy games, gameplay gets repetitive and after a few hours in, it feels more like a chore when you’re playing these games. We’ve made sure to present games with diverse strategic elements that keep you fully immersed. Lastly, visuals and overall in-game mechanics were also considered while curating this list as these factors can truly make or break the game.
30 Best Strategy Games To Play
We’ve rounded up the 30 best games from various sub-genres with each offering unique experiences for players. From classic genre-defining games to modern AAA titles, we’ve ensured that our readers are presented with the finest options on the market.
Finding the right place to snag your favorite titles can be a challenge, but you’ll find purchase links from the Eneba marketplace to make it easier to quickly grab the games you want to play without browsing through the entire web.
There are countless strategy games available, and while many have climbed to the top of the charts, there are still some underrated gems that deserve more attention. Let’s take a look at a few of these hidden treasures.
1. Tropico 6
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2019 | Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox One, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Tropico 6 is an immensely underrated gem that definitely deserves more recognition. Set on a Caribbean island, you take on the role of the sole dictator, tasked with managing and growing the island’s prosperity.
Why It Stands Out: The game challenges you to gather resources, expand by constructing new buildings, and foster diplomatic relations with neighboring countries to enhance your standing.
Ideal For: People less interested in the combat side of things and more focused on managing resources and building cities.
2. Commandos 2
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2019 | Windows |
Game Synopsis: The Commandos franchise is fairly popular in the strategy games genre. However, Commandos 2 didn’t make it to the top leagues and it really is an underrated gem.
Why It Stands Out: Featuring top-down gameplay with elements of stealth and real-time strategy, it is a must-play game if you love modern warfare.
Ideal For: People who don’t mind spending a good few hours trying various tactics to achieve a single objective.
3. Door Kickers
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2014 | Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox One, Android, iOS, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Door Kickers is an underrated gem in the strategy games genre. Featuring real-time tactics elements, players are assigned a police squad that is tasked to infiltrate buildings and eliminate all the enemies.
Why It Stands Out: Players can use different weapons from their arsenal to test different strategies and clear out buildings. You can replay different scenarios and use a variety of strategies for each scenario.
Ideal For: People who love to test their mindfulness against terrorists in real-time scenarios.
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Cross-platform Strategy Games
When comparing console game libraries to PC, the selection might seem smaller, but there are still some hidden gems worth exploring that are available on multiple platforms. Let’s uncover these treasures and highlight the best cross-platform strategy games available.
4. Desperados III
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2020 | PlayStation, Xbox One, Windows, GeForce Now |
Game Synopsis: Desperados III is an excellent stealth-based game available on multiple platforms. It follows a tale of a group of outlaws that complete various missions using deep tactics while keeping themselves hidden at all times.
Why It Stands Out: Set in a beautifully crafted world, you’ll never get tired of its stunning visuals and the in-game mechanics keep motivating you to come back to it.
Ideal For: People who like to play games for their visual appeal.
Grab a copy of Desperados III >
5. Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2016 | PlayStation, Xbox One, Windows |
Game Synopsis: Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is a stealth-based strategy game that demands precision and careful planning, as even the smallest mistake can cost you dearly. With its top-down perspective, the game features stunning visuals and nicely designed maps.
Why It Stands Out: The stealth mechanics are exceptional, and the ongoing commentary adds an immersive layer, keeping you fully engaged throughout each mission.
Ideal For: People with a knack for playing stealth-based games.
Get the best deal on Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun >
6. Company of Heroes 3
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2023 | PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows |
Game Synopsis: Company of Heroes 3 is a WWII-inspired real-time strategy game with the most stunning graphics and deep strategy in this sub-genre. The player commands an entire battalion and engages in combat with the enemies behind the lines.
Why It Stands Out: Factors like weather, stealth, and resources play a pivotal role in the overall progress of the game and its unique gameplay makes it a timeless fan favorite in this sub-genre as well.
Ideal For: People who love playing games with a deep emphasis on modern warfare.
Grab a copy of Company of Heroes 3 >
4X Strategy Games
The term 4X strategy game is often mentioned when discussing subgenres of strategy games. It has four key characteristics: exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination. In simple terms, any strategy game that features these elements is classified as a 4X game.
7. Old World
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2020 | GeForce Now, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Old World incorporates all the classic 4X elements while delivering a unique and unforgettable experience. You take control of a ruling family from the Stone Age, exploring new lands, forging alliances, arranging marriages, and ensuring your dynasty thrives by producing heirs.
Why It Stands Out: Its heavy focus on character-driven gameplay makes it a standout title in the 4X strategy genre.
Ideal For: People looking for a mix of grand strategy games with deep roots in their character.
8. Galactic Civilizations IV
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2021 | GeForce Now, Windows |
Game Synopsis: Galactic Civilizations IV is based in outer space where players explore the outer world in search of resources and encounter new allies and enemies.
Why It Stands Out: From high-end ships to technological advancements, this game employs deep strategy elements which makes it a fan-favorite in the 4X genre.
Ideal For: People obsessed with space exploration and enjoy using various tactics to prosper.
Get a copy of Galactic Civilizations IV: Supernova Edition >
9. Endless Legend
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2014 | GeForce Now, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Endless Legends tells a tale of a rotten place called Auriga where the player takes the lead of a faction that’s exploring the dying world and fighting off against the most brutal monsters of the realm.
Why It Stands Out: From initial exploring to gathering resources to building entire bases, it’s a perfect example of a 4X strategy game.
Ideal For: Creative strategists.
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Strategy Games With Strong Storylines
Strategy games aren’t just about building armies and deploying tactics to defeat your enemies; there are also story-driven strategy games that offer a unique world with memorable characters and narrative.
10. Age of Wonders 4
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2023 | PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows |
Game Synopsis: From the moment you select your realm and faction, Age of Wonders 4 immerses you in a rich narrative experience, with a strong emphasis on storytelling woven into its gameplay.
Why It Stands Out: In this majestic world, the plot isn’t pre-written; instead, the choices made by the player will shape the future, which makes it an exciting strategy game for all enthusiasts. With strong combat elements, the introduction of magical abilities, and appealing visuals, this is one of the most loved strategy games on the market in recent times.
Ideal For: People with a knack for grand strategy games and a lot of patience.
Get a copy of Age of Wonders 4 >
11. Victoria 3
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2022 | Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Victoria 3 is a grand-strategy game and you have the entire map to yourself where you can use various tactics to control nations, build alliances, and resolve conflicts all around. The gameplay itself is a bit complicated and you have to master politics, economy, and warfare to excel, making it a very interesting strategy game.
Why It Stands Out: Set in the early 20th century, it isn’t exactly a narrative-driven game, but offers the flexibility to build your own narrative as your decisions can unfold various events during the progress of the game.
Ideal For: People who like to get fully immersed in strategy games and are able to grasp the complicated nature of strategy games.
12. The Banner Saga 3
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2018 | Nintendo, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: The Banner Saga franchise has received high praise from game enthusiasts and the latest installment, the Banner Saga 3 continues with the journey of the caravan with each choice having a massive impact on the entire storyline of the game. As the sole protector of the caravan, you develop deep connections with certain elements of the game, and some decisions can lead to casualties and loss of valuable resources.
Why It Stands Out: With deep storytelling and stellar hand-drawn graphics, it’s easy to get immersed in the game. For anyone looking for a strategy game with a deep and warm storyline, the Banner Saga 3 and its entire franchise come highly recommended.
Ideal For: Players who have a deep love for hand-crafted artworks in games with great storytelling.
Get a copy of the Banner Saga 3 >
Best Indie Strategy Games
If we only pick the AAA titles from big studios then it wouldn’t be fair to the indie developers that have shed their sweat and tears into building stunning games for us. To honor indie developers, we have to decide to mention the best indie strategy games as well.
13. Mark of the Ninja
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2018 | PlayStation, Xbox One, Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Developed by Klei Entertainment, Mark of the Ninja was originally released in 2012 and received high praise. Later in 2018, the same developed released a remastered version of the game which further improved the graphics, in-game mechanics, and overall feel of the game to give it a modern touch for all enthusiasts to enjoy.
Why It Stands Out: The Mark of the Ninja Remastered is a rare stealth-based strategy game that blows you away with its simple yet attractive gameplay. Featuring a 2D side-scrolling gameplay, you play as a ninja who sneaks through the most guarded places to complete his missions.
Ideal For: People who love playing stealth-based games with deep strategic elements.
Get the best deal on Mark of the Ninja Remastered >
14. Northgard
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2017 | PlayStation, GeForce Now, Windows |
Game Synopsis: From impeccable graphics to a wide strategic variety, Northgard from Shiro Games is another gem that’s simply too good to miss. Featuring elements of base building, gathering resources, and raising armies with real-time battles and a chance to expand the clan, this title contains the best of all the sub-genres of strategy games.
Why It Stands Out: Hacking-n-slashing your way isn’t the only way to dominate here, you can use diplomacy and make allies with other clans to expand your clan. All-in-all, this visual masterpiece comes highly recommended if you’re after a visually appealing strategy game.
Ideal For: People looking to find strategy games with the best visuals.
15. They Are Billions
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2020 | PlayStation 4, GeForce Now, Windows |
Game Synopsis: Developed by Numantian Games, They Are Billions is a survival strategy game where hoards of undead humans, also referred to as zombies, are storming the colonies in a post-apocalyptic world and your job isn’t only to defend these colonies but also to use the resources to make the town more prosper and expand the colonies.
Why It Stands Out: With thousands of positive reviews from the community, this is, undeniably, one of the top indie games available, requiring sophisticated strategies and careful planning to truly master.
Ideal For: People who love to take on hoards of zombies and reduce them to dust with the weapons at their disposal.
Get a copy of They Are Billions >
Tower Defense Strategy Games
The tower defense strategy games are one of the least complicated games in the entire genre. The task is simple, enemies are coming in hot and your only job is to protect your town using various tactics and weapons are your disposal and that pretty much sums up this entire sub-genre.
16. Orcs Must Die 3
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2020 | PlayStation, GeForce Now, Windows |
Game Synopsis: Tired of the usual top-down strategy games? Orcs Must Die 3 switches things up with a third-person perspective, putting you right in the action as you defend your beautifully crafted castle from relentless waves of enemies. You can use the local defenses and projectile weapons to defend against each wave of enemies.
Why It Stands Out: The graphics of the game are quite spectacular and every bit of the game is crafted to perfection. As for the mechanics, you can freely roam around the castle and use different tactics to defeat the enemies. In modern times, this is truly one of the best tower defense strategy games out there.
Ideal For: People who love playing FPS and 3rd-person shooters as this feels quite similar to a traditional shooter game.
Grab your copy of Orcs Must Die 3 >
17. Kingdom Rush Origins
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2014 | Nintendo, Xbox, Windows, Android, iOS |
Game Synopsis: In a beautifully crafted world, the Gnoll—a vile creature from the underworld—emerges to threaten the town. As the hero, you must deploy masterful tactics, using watchtowers and ground troops to hold the line and protect your people.
Why It Stands Out: Sounds straightforward, doesn’t it? That is, until a massive horde of Gnolls launches an assault, forcing you to defend your base on multiple fronts. The chaos quickly becomes both thrilling and terrifying. In the tower defense genre, the Kingdom Rush franchise stands tall as one of the best and most beloved series out there.
Ideal For: People who love playing real-time strategy games because things can get complicated very quickly.
Get a copy of Kingdom Rush Origins >
18. Plants vs Zombies
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2009 | Windows, Android, iOS |
Game Synopsis: Plants vs Zombies is quite simple. Zombies are attacking the garden but you have a bunch of plants you can use that throw projectiles to engage with these zombies. Initially, beating the levels is a piece of cake.
Why It Stands Out: As you make progress to harder levels, you have to use sophisticated approaches to tackle the enemies and it gets very interesting. With availability on multiple platforms, it is one of the most-played video games of all time.
Ideal For: People looking for a fun and relaxing time.
Get the best deal on Plants vs Zombies >
Best Grand Strategy Games
Grand Strategy games are best defined as games with a heavy emphasis on long-term planning and diplomatic decisions that can change the entire course of history. Unlike other strategy games, you have to plan for the future of your empire or in some cases, civilizations that span over centuries when you’re playing grand strategy games.
19. Stellaris
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2016 | PlayStation, Xbox Series X/S, Windows |
Game Synopsis: In the world of grand strategy games, Stellaris is among the top picks because of its diverse and other-worldly gameplay. Players lead an intergalactic empire where they will be responsible for gathering resources, engaging in combat, and using unique technologies to further progress and dominate the galaxy.
Why It Stands Out: For simple folks, the gameplay can be quite daunting and it takes a while before you get a good grasp of the entire ecosystem. However, with its attractive cut scenes and deep learning curve, its easy to get immersed into its gameplay.
Ideal For: Players with extensive experience of playing strategy games.
20. Europa Universalis IV
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2013 | Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Looking for something to challenge your mind? Europa Universalis IV offers complex yet thrilling gameplay that will keep you deeply engaged. It features the entire map of the world and allows you to select a nation and use strategies to progress your nation. And, the fun part, you get to see the results of your decisions spanning over centuries.
Why It Stands Out: The entire world is your playground here where you can excel by using diplomacy, trade, and making allies throughout the world. Its gameplay and mechanics are a bit complicated and not easy to grasp. However, once you get the hang of it, the gameplay becomes super addictive and in a good way.
Ideal For: Players looking to get a taste of all sub-genres of strategy games in a single place.
Get the best deal on Europa Universalis IV >
21. Total War: Rome II
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2013 | Windows, macOS |
Game Synopsis: Total War: Rome II is described as a complete strategy game with elements of many other sub-genres infused into one single title. In this game, you have to build civilizations, raise armies, and use diplomacy to rule tumble empires and reduce them to dust.
Why It Stands Out: Each decision can have its advantages and consequences and you have to be in a forward-thinking state of mind to master this strategy game. In short, it is a genre-defining title that is too good to pass on.
Ideal For: People obsessed with strategy games based on historical destinations.
Get your copy of Total War: Rome II >
Turn-based Strategy (TBS) Games
Not a fan of real-time strategy games? Turn-based strategy games might be your true calling. In TBS games, players have to wait for their turn before they can attack and while it may sound boring, you have to employ deep strategies and calculate each of your moves which keep things exciting.
22. Into the Breach
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2016 | Nintendo, Windows, PS4, Android, macOS |
Game Synopsis: In the turn-based strategy games genre, Into the Breach is another popular title that captured the attention with its 8×8 grid gameplay where you’re fighting other-worldly creatures called Vik. To win the battle, you have to use various troops called Mechs and a variety of weapons in a turn-based combat scenario.
Why It Stands Out: Players have to rely on the unique abilities of heroes to complete the objectives and keep the city safe from any intruders. Moreover, for TBS games enthusiasts, this game promises an enjoyable experience and you’re better off grabbing it on Eneba.
Ideal For: People looking to get into strategy games without too many complications.
Get a copy of Into the Breach >
23. XCOM 2
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2016 | Nintendo, Windows, PS4, Android, macOS |
Game Synopsis: The original XCOM may have been the genre-defining game but XCOM 2 perfected it. Following the same script as its predecessor, you’re squaring up against aliens taking over the world in a futuristic city and equipped with all the modern tech, you’re tasked with eliminating the aliens using various tactics and tools at your disposal.
Why It Stands Out: In modern times, turn-based games are becoming rare but games like XCOM 2 are keeping the tradition of TBS games alive. If you’re into advanced warfare games with deep tactics and visuals that’ll leave you in awe then XCOM 2 comes highly recommended.
Ideal For: People who love minimalistic settings with fast-paced gameplay.
24. Civilization VI
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2016 | Windows, Xbox, PS4, Android, and iOS |
Game Synopsis: Sid Meier’s Civilization VI offers classic turn-based strategy gameplay with deep planning that requires you to build cities from scratch and upgrade them to modern monuments. Players rely on scientific advancements, resource building, and gathering with a strong emphasis on combat.
Why It Stands Out: Civilization VI is adored by enthusiasts for its rich strategy and constantly evolving elements, making it highly replayable and why player keeps returning to it.
Ideal For: People who love deep 4X strategy games with turn-based mechanics.
Grab a copy of Civilization VI >
Real-time Strategy (RTS) Games
Among all the sub-genres of strategy games, real-time strategy (RTS) games are the most popular and loved by many. Every game with an RTS element like Stronghold or Age of Empires requires you to think ahead, execute strategies efficiently, and adapt to changing circumstances in real-time which, at times feels like an adrenaline shot and it is one of the reasons why it is such a beloved genre.
25. Stronghold: Warlords
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2020 | Windows, OS Classic |
Game Synopsis: Stronghold: Warlords brings the beloved franchise back into the spotlight, offering an exciting mix of base defense and strategic offense that has rekindled the passion of longtime fans. The Stronghold series was hugely popular in the early 2000s but lost some of its charm over time.
Why It Stands Out: With the release of Stronghold: Warlords in 2021, we’ve seen a remarkable improvement in gameplay, setting the stage for it to become a timeless favorite once again. It is available at the Eneba marketplace at an excellent price.
Ideal For: People fascinated with the Mongol era.
Get your copy of Stronghold: Warlords >
26. Warcraft III
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2003 | Windows |
Game Synopsis: Warcraft III is quite similar to the Age Of Empires franchise and you have to build a base from scratch, raise armies, and take on otherworldly creatures that are eyeing up your base. Map exploration, resource gathering, and managing armies are pivotal parts of the game and if you’re a fan of the AOE franchise, this RTS strategy game is right up your alley.
Why It Stands Out: The gameplay is quite diverse with a range of troops and in-game mechanics that you have to master to be crowned the king. Overall, it is another fan-favorite RTS title on the market that you can afford to miss out on.
Ideal For: People with a knack for base building and intense combat.
Grab a copy of Warcraft III (Gold Edition) >
27. Age of Empires II
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 2019 | Windows, Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One |
Game Synopsis: For every RTS game enthusiast, the Age of Empires II is the perfect addition to your game arsenal. Consisting of building bases from scratch, raising armies, and advancing from the Stone Age to the Imperial Age, there isn’t a better RTS game, period.
Why It Stands Out: In the modern definite edition, a plethora of historic scenarios are added where you can play different campaigns based on historical figures. From Russian princes defending against the army of Genghis Khan to Babar reclaiming his throne, this one is a highly addictive game and a must-play title.
Ideal For: Beginners looking to test the waters in the strategy games genre.
Get the best deal on the Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition >
Classic Strategy Games That Defined The Genre
Since the dawn of gaming, strategy games have been a beloved genre, and games like Stronghold, Civilization, Starcraft, and a bunch of other amazing titles paved the way for the success of the genre.
Even in earlier times, strategy games amazed players with their deep strategic elements and innovation, which had a massive impact on the replayability of the title. That’s why, even to this day, a remastered version of such classical titles is still played and mastered by many.
28. Command & Conquer
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 1995 | Windows |
Game Synopsis: In the mid-90s, Command & Conquer quickly became one of the most beloved RTS strategy games with its modern warfare-themed gameplay. Players had to choose a faction and attack their enemies using well-thought strategies and in these real-time scenarios, players were expected to build bases, manage their resources, and come up with strategies to beat their enemies.
Why It Stands Out: From modern tanks to naval ships to ground units, there were a number of moving parts that kept the game engaging and massively improved the replayability feature. And to this day, we’re seeing some variation of Command & Conquer on the market.
Ideal For: People looking to get a nostalgic feel with a real-time strategy title.
Get your copy of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection >
29. X-COM: UFO Defense
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 1994 | Windows, DOS, PlayStation |
Game Synopsis: X-COM: UFO Defense, with its release in 1994, introduced a one-of-a-kind turn-based strategy game that wasn’t only ahead of its time but enabled players to engage in deep strategic scenarios they hadn’t seen before.
Why It Stands Out: Players were tasked with raising armies, picking the best combinations, and deploying the armies against aliens threatening to put an end to human civilization.
In its wake, X-COM: UFO Defense inspired many other turn-based classics, and even to this day, it is considered one of the classic genre-defining games and a timeless favorite for many strategy game enthusiasts.
Ideal For: People who love turn-based gameplay.
Get a copy of X-COM: UFO Defense >
30. StarCraft
| Release Date | Platform Availability |
| 1998 | Windows, MacOS |
Game Synopsis: The original StarCraft is undoubtedly the most popular classic strategy game that truly revealed the depth that strategy games could offer. The gameplay focused on controlling one faction, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, and using strong tactics to outwit your enemies in real-time scenarios.
Why It Stands Out: Visually, StarCraft was ahead of its time and with its multiplayer feature, it wasn’t long before it was one of the most-played strategy games of its time. Originally released in 1998, Blizzard launched a revamped version of StarCraft: Remastered in 2017 with polished gameplay, and to this day, it remains a very popular strategy game.
Ideal For: People who love to explore the outer worlds.
Grab a copy of StarCraft: Remastered >
Tips for Mastering Strategy Games
Being great at strategy games is not a piece of cake and you have to spend a good chunk of hours before you get a grasp on the entire ecosystem. From gathering resources to raising armies, you have to think before making any decision.
Something that helped me in mastering strategy games is thinking out of the box. Using the same strategies over and over again won’t do you any good, but if you try different approaches, you’ll start to see good results.
Recommendations for New Strategy Gamers
Before diving deep into the world of strategy games, it’s a good idea to start with titles like Age of Empires II and Northgard to gain a solid understanding of the genre.
Once you’re comfortable with these games, you can step up to 4X strategy games, which offer a completely different experience and will open up new dimensions of gameplay you may not have expected.
Mastering more complex games like Old World and the Banner Saga might take some time, but once you get the hang of them, you’ll soon find yourself as the king of the hill.
FAQs
What is the most popular strategy game of all time?
Age of Empires II is arguably the most popular strategy game of all time, consisting of several historical camping and hands-on asset management.
What is the difference between RTS and TBS games?
In real-time strategy (RTS) games, players attack each other simultaneously while in turn-based strategy (TBS) games, each player uses their turn to attack their enemies.
Are there strategy games with co-op mode?
Absolutely! Strategy games are some of the most fun to play with your more analytical friends. Go for Age of Empires II, Stellaris, or try some other greats we didn’t mention in our list like Factorio or Helldivers 2.
What are good strategy games for beginners?
The Age of Empires and Commandos franchises are a good place to start if you’re a beginner in the strategy games genre.
What is a 4X strategy game?
4X strategy is a subgenre of strategy games that is defined by a focus on exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination.
