Strategy games require strategic thinking, tactical planning, and understanding of game mechanics to win. The strategy game genre has produced many classics, and the ten best strategy games of all time include Civilization VI, XCOM 2, Starcraft II, Age of Empires II, Crusader Kings II, Europa Universalis IV, Total War: Warhammer II, They Are Billions, Company of Heroes 2, and Total War: Rome II. Each of these games offers endless hours of gameplay, depth, and complexity, making them must-play games for strategy game fans.
10 Best Strategy Games of All Time
For decades, strategy games have been popular among gamers. These games require strategic thinking, tactical planning, and a keen understanding of game mechanics to win. The strategy game genre has spawned numerous classics, each with its unique gameplay, mechanics, and storytelling. Here are the ten best strategy games of all time.
1. Civilization VI
Civilization VI is the latest iteration of the long-running Civilization series. The game allows you to build and manage your own civilization from the ground up. You can choose from different leaders, each with their unique abilities and traits. The game’s depth and complexity make it ideal for players who love to plan, strategize, and micromanage.
2. XCOM 2
XCOM 2 is a turn-based strategy game that puts you in charge of a team of soldiers fighting against an alien invasion. You’ll need to plan your moves carefully, build and upgrade your base, and manage your resources to survive. XCOM 2’s challenging gameplay, complex mechanics, and deep strategy make it one of the best strategy games of all time.
3. Starcraft II
Starcraft II is a real-time strategy game that pits three factions against each other: the Terrans, the Zerg, and the Protoss. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, deep strategy, and high skill ceiling make it a favorite among competitive gamers. Starcraft II has an active esports scene and is widely regarded as one of the best strategy games ever made.
4. Age of Empires II
Age of Empires II is a classic real-time strategy game that lets you lead one of 13 civilizations to victory. The game’s focus on resource management, building, and combat make it an engaging and challenging experience. Age of Empires II’s popularity has endured since its release in 1999, and it remains one of the most beloved strategy games of all time.
5. Crusader Kings II
Crusader Kings II is a medieval strategy game that lets you lead a medieval dynasty to power. You’ll need to manage your kingdom’s resources, engage in politics and diplomacy, and lead your armies to victory. Crusader Kings II’s deep and immersive gameplay, along with its heavy emphasis on role-playing, make it one of the best strategy games ever made.
6. Europa Universalis IV
Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy game that lets you control one of over 300 nations as they navigate the complexities of early modern Europe. You’ll need to manage your economy, engage in diplomacy, and lead your armies to victory in one of the game’s many wars. Europa Universalis IV’s depth, complexity, and historical accuracy make it a must-play for strategy game fans.
7. Total War: Warhammer II
Total War: Warhammer II is a combination of turn-based strategy and real-time battles set in the fantasy world of Warhammer. You’ll need to manage your empire, recruit armies, and engage in epic battles against other factions in the game’s richly detailed world. Total War: Warhammer II’s compelling gameplay, amazing graphics, and deep lore make it one of the best strategy games ever made.
8. They Are Billions
They Are Billions is a post-apocalyptic strategy game that puts you in charge of a colony of survivors fighting against hordes of zombies. You’ll need to build defenses, manage resources, and engage in combat to survive. They Are Billions’ challenging gameplay, unique mechanics, and atmospheric setting make it one of the best strategy games released in recent years.
9. Company of Heroes 2
Company of Heroes 2 is a World War II-themed real-time strategy game that lets you command armies and fight on the Eastern Front. You’ll need to manage your resources, build bases, and engage in tactical combat to overcome your enemies. Company of Heroes 2’s strategic depth, historical accuracy, and engaging gameplay make it a favorite among strategy game fans.
10. Total War: Rome II
Total War: Rome II lets you lead one of the most powerful empires in history through a time of great upheaval and conflict. You’ll need to manage your economy, recruit armies, and engage in epic battles against other factions to maintain your power. Total War: Rome II’s combination of turn-based strategy and real-time battles, combined with its rich historical setting, make it one of the best strategy games ever made.