Top 25 Strategy Games to Master in 2025

If you’re eager to challenge your tactical skills, the strategy game genre offers a rich landscape of immersive experiences. From intricate turn-based strategy titles to intense real-time strategy (RTS) battles and detailed city-building simulations, the options cater to diverse preferences and gameplay styles.

Introduction to Strategy Games

Strategy games have long captivated players by combining thoughtful planning, resource management, and tactical decision-making. Whether set against historical backdrops, fantastical realms, or futuristic sci-fi universes, these games demand critical thinking and adaptability. Recent advances in game design have also introduced narrative depth and role-playing elements, enriching the traditional strategy framework.

Why Strategy Games Are More Popular Than Ever

• Diverse subgenres: Including turn-based, real-time strategy, 4X, tactical RPGs, and city builders.
• Blend of storytelling and tactics: Many modern strategy games incorporate deep narratives and character development.
• Competitive multiplayer: Esports and online co-op modes have increased the genre’s popularity.
• Accessibility improvements: Tutorials and quality-of-life features help new players onboard quickly.

The 25 Best Strategy Games to Play in 2025

25. SteamWorld Heist 2

Developed by Thunderful Development and released in 2024 on platforms including PC, PS5, and Switch, SteamWorld Heist 2 innovates with its 2D side-scrolling, turn-based tactical combat. Players utilize precise positioning and inventive ricochet shots, with a vibrant sea-faring overworld enhancing exploration. Though some missions can feel repetitive, the core combat mechanics are among the best in the genre, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned strategists. (Source: SteamWorld Heist 2 Review)

24. Battletech

Harebrained Schemes’ 2018 PC exclusive, Battletech, adapts the tabletop mech combat experience into a round-based strategy game. Notable for its limb-targeting mechanics, it adds unpredictability that mixes strategic depth with challenging randomness. The narrative focus distinguishes it from many tactical games, providing an engaging storyline that complements the tactical battles. Despite some frustrations with randomness, it’s a unique and memorable experience. (Source: Battletech Official Site)

23. Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden

Mutant Year Zero by The Bearded Ladies (2018) combines tactical combat similar to XCOM with stealth and progression influenced by mutations. Set in a post-apocalyptic environment inhabited by mutated anthropomorphic characters, it challenges players with tough encounters and strategic stealth mechanics. Its intense difficulty and engaging story make it an excellent choice for fans of tactical strategy. For similar experiences, see our Best Games Like XCOM list.

22. Wildermyth

Worldwalker Games’ Wildermyth (2021) emphasizes narrative impact on strategy gameplay, blending RPG elements with tactical turn-based combat. Its procedural story elements and character-driven decisions make each playthrough unique. This game fosters a deep connection with your squad, combining strategy with personal storytelling effectively. The console rendition released in 2025 added enhanced accessibility and visuals. (Source: Wildermyth Impressions)

21. Gears Tactics

Xbox Game Studios developed Gears Tactics (2020) as a fast-paced, turn-based tactical game set in the gritty Gears universe. Known for its impressive visuals and aggressive gameplay style, it encourages tactical risks and strategic squad management. Its convincing fusion of cover-shooter mechanics and strategy elements creates a visually stunning and exciting experience, ideal for both fans and newcomers to tactical games. (Source: Gears Tactics Review)

20. Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2

Focusing on epic space battles within the Warhammer 40,000 universe, Tindalos Interactive’s Battlefleet Gothic: Armada 2 (2019) allows players to command fleets from 12 factions, each with unique ships and abilities. With three major solo campaigns and a deep customization system, it offers both strategic fleet management and thrilling space combat. Fans of Warhammer lore will appreciate the depth and scale this RTS delivers. (Source: Official Site)

19. Endless Legend

Endless Legend (2014) by Amplitude Studios is a fantasy-themed 4X game with diverse factions and procedurally generated worlds. It combines diplomacy, warfare, and exploration with an emphasis on unique heroes and their influence on the battlefield. Offering a deep strategic experience with countless side quests and dynamic storytelling, players often find themselves engrossed for hours. (Source: Amplitude Studios)

18. Total War: Three Kingdoms

Creative Assembly’s Total War: Three Kingdoms (2019) blends historical accuracy with mythological elements in the Chinese Civil War era. The game fuses strategic diplomacy, trade, and grand battles managed across vast maps. Its complex political landscape and customizable campaigns solidify its position as a transformative entry in the Total War series. (Source: Creative Assembly)

17. Desperados 3

Desperados 3 by Mimimi Games (2020) returns to the Wild West setting with precision turn-based tactics. Featuring challenging missions and characters with unique skills, it offers multiple strategic approaches to each predicament. Its engaging storyline and production quality make it a standout among tactical strategy titles. (Source: Mimimi Games)

16. Invisible, Inc.

Klei Entertainment’s Invisible, Inc. (2015) is a stealth-focused tactical roguelike, placing players in high-stakes corporate espionage missions. Known for its unpredictable AI guards and procedural level generation, it demands careful planning and adaptability, revitalizing the XCOM formula with unique gameplay elements. (Source: Klei Entertainment)

15. Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew

Released in 2023 by Mimimi Games, Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew features a squad of undead pirates with supernatural powers in a turn-based tactical game. Its inventive gameplay includes stealth and creative elimination methods resembling a mix of Hitman and traditional strategy. The varied character abilities encourage unique playstyles and strategic experimentation. (Source: Mimimi Games)

14. Heroes of Might and Magic 3: Complete

This 1999 classic by New World Computing remains a testament to deep, lore-rich 4X strategy gaming. Featuring a variety of myth-inspired factions, extensive expansions, and fan-created content, this game delivers an immersive experience in turn-based kingdom management and combat across lush 2D maps. (Source: GOG)

13. Tactical Breach Wizards

Suspicious Developments’ Tactical Breach Wizards (2024) combines witty narrative with strategic gameplay, blending XCOM-style tactics with magic and humor. Its accessible retry system invites casual and strategic players alike to enjoy creative tactical battles featuring unique wizard abilities. (Source: Suspicious Developments)

12. Stellaris

Paradox Development Studio’s Stellaris (2016) offers grand strategy across the galaxy, letting players customize interstellar empires through diplomacy, warfare, and exploration. The game’s ongoing updates and DLC maintain an active community and continuously enrich its spaceship battles and planetary management. (Source: Paradox Interactive)

11. Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition

This 2019 remake of a classic RTS by Forgotten Empires brings enhanced graphics and quality-of-life improvements while keeping the core gameplay that made it a genre-defining title. Players build settlements and armies from the Stone Age to the Information Age, with solo campaigns and co-op modes ensuring extensive replayability. (Source: Age of Empires Official)

10. Marvel’s Midnight Suns

Developed by Firaxis in 2022, Marvel’s Midnight Suns fuses turn-based tactical combat with collectible card mechanics and rich character interactions. Featuring iconic Marvel superheroes, the game offers a fresh take on strategy with deck-building and narrative elements that engage both strategy and comic fans. (Source: 2K Games)

9. Age of Wonders 4

Triumph Studios’ Age of Wonders 4 (2023) returns to fantasy 4X strategy with a focus on creativity and customization. Players craft unique races and navigate magical realms where choices dramatically affect gameplay and story outcomes, ensuring unparalleled replay value. (Source: Age of Wonders Official)

8. Sid Meier’s Civilization 6

Civilization 6 (2016), by Firaxis Games, continues the legendary 4X turn-based strategy series. It features city expansion, active research in technology and culture, and 20 diverse leaders with distinct victory paths. Tutorials make it approachable for newcomers while satisfying veteran strategists. (Source: Civilization Official)

7. Total War: Warhammer 3

Creative Assembly’s Total War: Warhammer 3 (2022) expands on its predecessors with more depth, variety, and content. Combining grand strategy and captivating real-time battles in a richly detailed fantasy world, it’s a compelling pick for fans seeking immersive and tactical gameplay. (Source: Creative Assembly)

6. Crusader Kings 3

Paradox Development Studio’s Crusader Kings 3 (2020) elevates grand strategy RPGs with intricate storytelling and political intrigue. Players manage dynasties and navigate medieval power struggles in a visually improved and accessible format that melds narrative depth with strategic breadth. (Source: Paradox Interactive)

5. XCOM 2

Released in 2016 by Firaxis Games, XCOM 2 intensifies the challenge with turn-based combat on expansive, dynamic maps. It features permadeath mechanics, diverse missions, and a compelling storyline about humanity fighting alien invaders. Extensive DLC like “War of the Chosen” adds new classes and adversaries, enhancing replayability. (Source: XCOM Official)

4. StarCraft 2

Blizzard Entertainment’s StarCraft 2 (2010) remains a benchmark for RTS games, showcasing polished races and tactical battles that have influenced the genre for over a decade. Its enduring multiplayer scene and engaging campaigns keep it relevant and respected. (Source: StarCraft Official)

3. Into the Breach

Subset Games’ Into the Breach (2018) offers compact, intense turn-based battles on an 8×8 grid. Procedurally generated challenges and strategic layers involving civilians and mech management create high replayability. The Advanced Edition, released recently, refines an already compelling rogue-like strategy experience. (Source: Subset Games)

2. Warcraft 3

While the Warcraft 3: Reign of Chaos (2002) original and its expansion The Frozen Throne remain the gold standard for fantasy RTS, their compelling story and hero-focused gameplay set them apart. Despite a troubled remaster, ongoing updates and community support maintain its legacy as an iconic strategy experience. (Source: Blizzard Entertainment)

1. Command and Conquer Remastered Collection

Petroglyph and Lemon Sky Studios revived this classic RTS in 2020, modernizing the user interface and visuals while preserving the original gameplay. With over 100 missions and added difficulty options, it’s a timeless tribute to the roots of strategy gaming, balancing nostalgia with accessibility. Despite some AI limitations, its multiplayer remains a strong component. (Source: EA Games)

Conclusion

The strategy game genre stands as a testament to the power of tactical thinking, adaptability, and immersive storytelling. The top 25 games outlined here, spanning decades and diverse subgenres, offer immense depth and challenge to players. Whether you prefer turn-based tactics, sprawling grand strategy, or real-time battles, 2025 is a year rich with opportunities to sharpen your strategic acumen.

For continued exploration, stay updated with new releases and expansions in this dynamic genre, and consider diving into specialized categories like 4X and RTS games for even more strategic adventures.