Top Strategy Games for PC: Ultimate Collection
Are you ready for epic journeys of conquest and diplomacy? PC strategy games offer a wide range of exciting experiences. From the turn-based grandeur of Sid Meier's Civilization® VI to the real-time battles of Total War: Warhammer III1. Our experts have reviewed 41 products in the PC games category in the past year1. We're excited to share the ultimate collection of must-play strategy titles that will challenge your mind and spark your imagination.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a wide array of strategy game subgenres, from turn-based to real-time, grand strategy to tactical RPGs.
- Explore immersive worlds and engage in epic battles, whether commanding fleets in space or leading armies on fantasy battlefields.
- Delve into the intricate mechanics of resource management, city-building, and political intrigue in acclaimed strategy franchises.
- Experience the thrill of shaping history, forging new civilizations, or rising to power as a mob boss in the underworld.
- Uncover the best PC strategy games that offer captivating storytelling, deep gameplay mechanics, and endless replayability.
Welcome to the ultimate destination for PC strategy game enthusiasts. Prepare to embark on unforgettable journeys, forge empires, and conquer worlds as you explore the most exceptional strategy experiences available on the PC platform.
Best Of Strategy Games for PC
PC strategy games offer a wide range of experiences for different players. You can choose from turn-based, real-time, or grand strategy games. Each type has its own unique style and challenges2.
Turn-Based Strategy Games
Turn-based strategy games let you plan your moves carefully. You manage resources and outsmart your opponents. These games have rich worlds and deep gameplay, making you build and develop empires2.
Real-Time Strategy Games
Real-time strategy games require quick thinking and fast actions. You manage units and resources while adapting to the game's pace. These games offer intense battles and the thrill of outsmarting opponents2.
Grand Strategy Games
Grand strategy games give you a big-picture view of the world. You manage economies, diplomacy, and military strength on a large scale. These games offer deep strategy and the chance to guide a civilization through time2.
PC has a lot of strategy games for every type of player. Whether you like turn-based, real-time, or grand strategy, there's something for you. These games are highly recommended and offer great experiences234.
Game Genre | Example Titles | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Turn-Based Strategy | Sid Meier's Civilization VI, XCOM 2, Crusader Kings 3 | Methodical gameplay, resource management, empire-building, tactical combat |
Real-Time Strategy | StarCraft 2, Company of Heroes, Total War: Warhammer 3 | Fast-paced action, unit coordination, resource management, dynamic battles |
Grand Strategy | Europa Universalis IV, Hearts of Iron IV, Stellaris | Expansive scope, complex systems, diplomacy, military might, economic management |
Strategy games on PC have something for everyone, from beginners to experts. They offer a wide range of genres and gameplay styles. The best strategy games for PC are engaging and challenging234.
"The best new strategy game in many years." - Solium Infernum
PC strategy games range from tactical combat to grand strategy. They offer immersive experiences for all players. Whether you're new or experienced, these games will test your skills and challenge you234.
Sid Meier's Civilization® VI
Sid Meier's Civilization® VI is a top choice for fans of epic strategy games. This classic 4X game lets players lead a civilization from ancient times to today5. It has a high review score of 87% from recent players and 86% overall5. This game offers a deep, engaging, and rewarding experience. Players must balance resources, technology, diplomacy, and military strength to win.
The game has many factions and leaders, each with special bonuses6. Players can choose from different victory conditions, like conquering all capitals or achieving cultural, scientific, or religious dominance6. The game's AI is well-balanced, and new mechanics like natural disasters and resource collection improvements add to the fun6.
Civilization VI looks great, with colorful maps and relaxing music6. It's easy to learn, thanks to its tutorials, making it great for new and experienced players6. Whether you play alone or with friends6, it's a top pick for fans of historical strategy games and 4X gameplay.
"Civilization VI is a radical redesign, emphasizing the strategic and tactical importance of geography in the game. The busy gameplay, with its various cultural, technological, and military aspects, makes for a truly engrossing strategy simulation."
- Rock Paper Shotgun7
With its engaging mechanics, diverse civilizations, and strategic challenges, Sid Meier's Civilization® VI is a true masterpiece among acclaimed strategy titles and best-selling strategy hits on PC.
Europa Universalis IV
Europa Universalis IV is a top pick among pc strategy titles. It's an award-winning strategy game for pc made by Paradox Interactive. This game takes you through the early modern era, from the 15th to the 19th century8.
This game is known for its deep strategy. Players guide a nation through diplomatic relations, economic systems, and military conflicts of the time9. Its engaging gameplay has made it popular among fans of grand strategy games and historical strategy games.
Europa Universalis IV offers a lot of content for players8. With a subscription model, players get access to 14 major expansions, 3 immersion packs, and 9 content packs over eight years8. This makes the game a top strategy hit and masterpiece.
The game lets players shape history with strategic decisions9. It challenges you to manage provinces, trade routes, and internal affairs wisely. The game's setting and random events make it a captivating simulation for all players.
Whether you're new to grand strategy games or a pro, Europa Universalis IV is a must-play. It offers a deep immersive strategic experience and a chance to impact history89.
Hearts of Iron IV
For fans of grand strategy games, Hearts of Iron IV is a top choice. It's made by Paradox Interactive and lets players dive into World War II. This historical strategy game is known for its deep and complex gameplay10.
The game's world is huge, covering an Earth map circa 1936 with over 11,000 unique provinces, sea regions, and air zones. Players can lead any nation from 1936 to 1939 through the war's challenges. The game runs from 1936 to 1948, offering many alternate historical scenarios for replayability10.
Players can customize their divisions with different numbers of troops and equipment. This lets them plan their attacks carefully. The game's logistics system gives clear feedback on production and supply, helping players keep their armies strong10.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Total User Reviews on Steam | 211,331 |
Positive User Reviews | 91% |
Recent Positive Reviews (Last 30 Days) | 89% |
Promotional Discount | 70% (from $49.99 to $14.99) |
Game Expansion Packs | Death or Dishonor, Together for Victory, Waking the Tiger |
Critical Ratings | 9/10 (IGN), 8.8/10 (PC Gamer), 8/10 (Polygon) |
Hearts of Iron IV is known for its engrossing strategy gameplay and historical accuracy. It's a top military strategy game and must-play PC strategy title for fans101112.
"Hearts of Iron IV offers a truly immersive and engrossing experience for fans of military and grand strategy games on PC."
Whether you're new to strategy or a pro, Hearts of Iron IV offers an epic strategy gameplay. It's full of gripping strategic challenges and engrossing strategy simulations. Paradox Interactive is known for their award-winning strategy games for PC111210.
From Classics to Newcomers
The PC strategy game world is full of must-play pc strategy titles and award-winning strategy games for pc. Classics like Civilization and Age of Empires sit alongside new hits like Europa Universalis and Hearts of Iron. These games offer highly recommended strategy games and acclaimed strategy masterpieces13.
New games like Manor Lords, Homeworld 3, and Against the Storm are pushing the genre forward. They bring fresh ideas to popular strategic gameplay and immersive strategic experiences. Whether you're new or experienced, there's a wide range of best pc strategy titles to explore and conquer13.
Civilization 6 and XCOM 2 are just a few examples of the best-selling strategy hits on PC. Games like Starcraft 2, Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, and Cities: Skylines have been favorites for years. They offer popular real-time strategy games and hit turn-based strategy games13.
PC strategy games keep getting better, with new hits like Total War: Warhammer 3, Crusader Kings 3, and Sins of a Solar Empire. These highly recommended strategy pc releases show off the platform's depth. They provide engrossing strategy simulations and top-rated strategy video games on pc that challenge and engage players13.
If you love must-play strategy games for pc, critically acclaimed pc strategy games, or highest-rated strategy games for pc, PC has a lot to offer. From popular strategy games for pc to award-winning strategy pc games and top-selling strategy games for pc, there's a lot of epic strategy gameplay and engrossing strategic experiences13.
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
The beloved Age of Empires has been remastered in the Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition. This game is a top pick for PC strategy fans, loved for over 20 years14. Players are taken back to the medieval era. They must lead their civilization through conquest, diplomacy, and technological growth.
This game is known for its deep, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and rich historical setting. It's a must-play strategy experience for PC gamers14. It includes three new playable civilizations of India and 15 single-player missions. Expansions like Dawn of the Dukes and Lords of the West add new civilizations, units, and technologies14.
The Empire Wars game mode is a highlight, letting players quickly advance their civilization. The CaptureAge tool is also available, helping players improve their strategies and skills14.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
User Reviews on Steam | 128,411 "Very Positive" reviews15 |
Recent User Reviews | 1,188 reviews in the last 30 days, 91% positive15 |
Expansions | The Last Khans expansion with 3 new campaigns and 4 new civilizations15 |
Game Pricing | 50% discount, from $19.99 to $9.9915 |
System Requirements | Minimum 4 GB RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GT 420 or equivalent with 2 GB VRAM15 |
Playable Civilizations | 35 different civilizations for online play15 |
This game has gotten great reviews, scoring an 81 on OpenCritic and 92% of critics recommend it16. Critics love its stunning 4K Ultra HD graphics, remastered soundtrack, and new content like "The Last Khans" expansion14. They also praise its engrossing strategy gameplay mechanics and immersive strategic experiences. It's seen as one of the best-selling strategy hits and a must-play PC strategy title16.
"Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is a true masterpiece, offering an epic strategy gameplay experience that will captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike."
Rise of Kingdoms: Charming Colony Sim
In the world of strategy games, Rise of Kingdoms is a top choice for city-building and resource management fans17. This game lets players build and grow their own civilizations. You can pick from many historical cultures, each with its own strengths and ways to play17.
Build Your Civilization
Rise of Kingdoms challenges you to build and develop your kingdom. You can plan your city's layout carefully. Place resources, buildings, and defenses to make a bustling center of activity.
The game has strong resource management. You must balance the production and use of important goods. This keeps your civilization growing and doing well.
Immersive Storytelling
Rise of Kingdoms also has a great story with memorable characters. These characters tell stories that pull you into the game's world. The story mixes well with building cities and managing resources, making the game very engaging.
Rise of Kingdoms has great visuals, fun gameplay, and a deep story. It's a top pick for PC players who love colony sims and resource management games17. Its mix of strategy and RPG storytelling makes it a must-play for fans looking for an epic adventure17.
Warpath: RTS Base-Building Hybrid
If you love strategy games, Warpath is a top choice for PC. It's a free game that mixes real-time strategy with base-building18. You'll enjoy managing resources, researching, and crafting, making it fun and easy to get into18.
In Warpath, you lead an army to grow your territory and beat your enemies18. You'll use strategy and tactics for success. Plus, you can manage resources to upgrade your troops, strengthen your base, and discover new techs18.
What makes Warpath special is how you can talk with your allies in the game18. This helps you work together better and makes the game more exciting. It's perfect for both new and experienced players18.
Warpath combines real-time strategy, managing resources, and building bases for a unique challenge18. It's great for those who want to conquer lands, outsmart foes, or make alliances. This game will keep you playing for hours18.
"Warpath delivers a thrilling and addictive strategic experience, blending real-time strategy with deep resource management and base-building mechanics. It's a must-play for any fan of the genre."
Homeworld 3: Epic Space Strategy
Homeworld 3 is the newest game in the Homeworld series. It gives players an immersive and19 epic space strategy experience20. You'll control huge fleets of spaceships in a big interstellar fight. The game's stunning 3D worlds and huge scale make for a captivating strategy experience. It draws in both fans and new players.
Massive Fleet Battles
Homeworld 3's combat system is thrilling. It challenges players to skillfully lead their large fleets21. The campaign has 13 missions that take about 10 hours to finish on normal difficulty. You'll get lost in a gripping story.
Managing your fleet is key. Use different ship types and special abilities to beat your foes in21 beautiful space scenes.
Customizable War Games Mode
Homeworld 3 also has a strong20 "War Games" mode. Here, players can make their own scenarios and battles21. This mode is different from the usual Homeworld maps. It has various goals and crowded space areas that need smart strategies.
Use the game's19 tactical pause feature and21 formation controls to improve your tactics. This makes for exciting three-dimensional space fights.
Homeworld 3 mixes great storytelling20, immersive sound, and19 tough gameplay. It's a must-play for fans of big-scale space battles19. Whether you're going through the campaign or playing War Games, you'll find the game's20 challenges gripping.
"Homeworld 3 offers a truly epic space strategy experience, blending stunning visuals, a rich narrative, and engrossing tactical gameplay that will keep players enthralled for hours on end."
The Grand Mafia: Mob Boss Strategy
Dive into the gritty world of The Grand Mafia, a strategy game where you lead a criminal empire22. This top PC game22 tests your skills in a world of power, greed, and betrayal. Your goal is to dominate the territory22.
Resource Management
As a mob boss, managing your resources is key to growing your criminal business22. Hire skilled Enforcers to help you with your plans22. Use the Attractive Babe System to boost your illegal activities22. With over 500,000 words of story and many strategic choices22, The Grand Mafia provides a deep strategy experience.
Territory Domination
Grow your power by taking over the criminal world22. Use thirty-six unique strategies to place your assets and win battles22. Join online tournaments to face off against top mob bosses worldwide23. As you rise, make smart moves to build your empire and become the top Grand Mafia boss.
The Grand Mafia is great for both strategy fans and new players22. It offers a deep story, varied gameplay, and tough challenges. This must-play PC game22 is a standout in strategy games22.
Manor Lords: Medieval City-Builder
If you're looking for a deep dive into medieval city-building, Manor Lords is a top choice. This game is praised for its mix of city-building and medieval combat. It offers a rich strategic gameplay experience24.
Crafting and Combat
Manor Lords shines with its crafting system. Players can make and outfit their villagers with various weapons and armor25. This adds a layer of strategy to the game's combat. Even though it's still being developed, the blueprint for exciting battles is clear. Manor Lords is set to be a hit among PC strategy games24.
Players aim to build and manage a medieval village. They must also get their citizens ready for battles against other factions25. The game's city-building is unique, thanks to its gridless design and flexible placement. This makes it stand out from other city-building games25.
The game shows how unchecked growth affects the environment, like wildlife and forests25. Players can also set up trade routes and sell goods to merchants. This adds a strategic layer to managing resources and growing the economy25.
With its deep crafting and combat, Manor Lords is a top pick for PC strategy fans24. As it gets updates, Manor Lords is likely to become a favorite among medieval city-builder games24.
The team at Slavic Magic has worked hard to make Manor Lords a standout medieval city-builder. With ongoing updates, it's set to be a top strategy game on PC26.
"Manor Lords offers a truly captivating and strategic city-building experience, with a level of depth and complexity that sets it apart from the competition. The crafting system and combat mechanics are a joy to engage with, making this a must-play for any fan of the genre."
Supremacy 1914: World War MMO
For those who love strategy games, Supremacy 1914 is a top choice. It's a World War I MMO that lets players control nations and fight for world power27.
Historically Accurate Nations
Supremacy 1914 is known for its historical accuracy. It shows the real nations of World War I, each with its own strengths and challenges27. Players can dive into the biggest World War I strategy game27. They'll face the complex web of alliances and tech changes of the time27.
The game mixes role-playing with strategy. Players can make alliances and work together towards goals27. With up to 500 opponents in real-time, Supremacy 1914 offers a deep strategic challenge. Players must manage resources, armies, and diplomacy to win.
Recent reviews show 87% of users liked it in the last 30 days27. The game's overall score is Mostly Positive, with 75% positive reviews27. Players praise its realistic troops, weapons, and the variety of maps and scenarios27.
Whether you're a pro or new to strategy games, Supremacy 1914 will draw you in. It's a deep dive into World War I with great historical detail and engaging gameplay27. This award-winning28 and highly recommended28 game is a must for strategy fans272829.
Star Trek Fleet Commander: Spacefaring Sim
For fans of the Star Trek franchise, "Star Trek Fleet Commander" is a top pick. It's a spacefaring sim that lets you lead your own space stations and fleets. Developed by top talent, this award-winning strategy game for PC brings the sci-fi universe to life30.
Construct Space Stations
In "Star Trek Fleet Commander," building and customizing your own space stations is key. You can design these stations with various systems and defenses. This lets you create everything from research labs to shipyards, adding depth and immersion to the game30.
Iconic Star Trek Officers
Players can also recruit famous Star Trek officers to lead their fleets in battle. These officers come with unique skills that can change the outcome of battles. It's a dream for any Star Trek fan to command these legendary characters30.
"Star Trek Fleet Commander" combines base-building, fleet management, and iconic characters for a deep strategy experience. It's perfect for both longtime Trekkies and newcomers to space-based games. This game will keep you hooked with its gripping strategic challenges and epic strategy gameplay30.
"Star Trek Fleet Commander is a true testament to the enduring appeal of the Star Trek universe, delivering an unparalleled strategic experience that immerses players in the heart of the iconic sci-fi franchise."
Solium Infernum: Devilish Political Game
Get ready to enter the dark world of Solium Infernum. This game makes you a power-hungry demon fighting for Hell's throne. It's a strategy game full of deception, betrayal, and the endless chase for power31.
With a high rating of 9/10, Solium Infernum is a top choice for PC strategy fans31. The game has eight playable Archfiends, each with special strategies and skills31. You can play alone or with others, enjoying single-player Chronicles or multiplayer with 2-6 players31.
The game's dark art makes you feel like you're really in Hell, inspired by Milton's Paradise Lost31. Critics love it for its deep strategy, psychological play, and political intrigue3132. It's a game that requires smart thinking, patience, and keen observation, offering a unique challenge for strategy fans32.
FAQ
What are the best strategy games on PC?
The best strategy games on PC cover many types, like turn-based, real-time, and grand strategy. They offer fun, challenging, and deep experiences for all players.
What are the key features of turn-based strategy games on PC?
Turn-based strategy games let players plan their moves carefully. They manage resources thoughtfully.
How do real-time strategy games differentiate from turn-based on PC?
Real-time strategy games need quick thinking and fast action. Players manage units and react to changes on the battlefield instantly.
What defines grand strategy games on PC?
Grand strategy games give players a big view of the world. They manage economies, diplomacy, and military power on a big scale.
Why is Sid Meier's Civilization® VI considered a must-play strategy game?
Sid Meier's Civilization® VI is a top 4X strategy game. It has been a favorite for years. Players balance resources, technology, diplomacy, and military strength to win.
What makes Europa Universalis IV a compelling grand strategy experience?
Europa Universalis IV puts players in the early modern world. They navigate diplomacy, economies, and wars to lead a nation from the 15th to the 19th century.
How does Hearts of Iron IV stand out in the grand strategy genre?
Hearts of Iron IV lets players control a nation through World War II. It's a deep and engaging game for fans of military and grand strategy.
What classic strategy game franchises are well-represented on PC?
PC has many classic strategy games. This includes Civilization, Age of Empires, Europa Universalis, and Hearts of Iron.
What are some of the newest and most innovative strategy games on PC?
New strategy games like Manor Lords, Homeworld 3, and Against the Storm are pushing the genre forward. They offer fresh ideas and exciting gameplay.
Why is Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition a must-play real-time strategy experience?
Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is engaging and visually stunning. It's set in history and is a top choice for PC gamers.
What unique features does Rise of Kingdoms offer in the colony simulation genre?
Rise of Kingdoms mixes strategy and RPG elements. Players choose from real historical civilizations to build a kingdom. The game has a strong narrative with memorable characters.
How does Warpath's hybrid RTS and base-building gameplay stand out?
Warpath combines real-time strategy with managing resources and crafting. It also allows players to talk with allies for better strategies.
What makes Homeworld 3 an epic space strategy experience?
Homeworld 3 lets players control huge fleets in space. They navigate through a big conflict and fight in cinematic battles. The game also has a custom War Games mode for unique scenarios.
What sets The Grand Mafia apart as a unique strategy game?
The Grand Mafia makes players a mob boss. They aim to avenge their father's death and build a crime empire. It mixes resource management, territory control, and RPG elements.
How does Manor Lords combine city-building and medieval combat?
Manor Lords has players build and manage a village. They prepare for battles against other factions. The game has a deep crafting system for customizing villagers.
What historical setting and scale does Supremacy 1914 offer?
Supremacy 1914 is an MMO strategy game set in World War I. Up to 500 players compete for world dominance as different nations.
What iconic Star Trek elements does Star Trek Fleet Commander incorporate?
Star Trek Fleet Commander lets players control space stations and fleets. They use famous Star Trek officers for tactical battles.
What unique strategic challenges does Solium Infernum present?
Solium Infernum is a strategy game about power and deception. Players face complex challenges and need to navigate rituals and betrayals to win.
Source Links
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- Hearts of Iron 4 Review - IGN - https://www.ign.com/articles/2016/06/06/1558481
- Save 70% on Hearts of Iron IV on Steam - https://store.steampowered.com/app/394360/Hearts_of_Iron_IV/
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- Reddit - Dive into anything - https://www.reddit.com/r/Games/comments/dvd0n0/age_of_empires_ii_definitive_edition_review_thread/
- Best City Building Games Of All Time - https://www.thegamer.com/best-city-building-games-time/
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- Homeworld 3 review: a lavish and often gripping RTS that is overly reliant on playing the hits - https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/homeworld-3-review
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- The Grand Mafia - https://games.lol/the-grand-mafia/
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- Manor Lords Review – The Best Medieval Game Of All Time - https://strategyandwargaming.com/2024/04/27/manor-lords-review-the-best-medieval-game-of-all-time/comment-page-1/
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- Steam Community :: Manor Lords - https://steamcommunity.com/app/1363080/allnews/
- Supremacy 1914: World War 1 on Steam - https://store.steampowered.com/app/979920/Supremacy_1914_World_War_1/
- Supremacy 1914 - WW1 Strategy - Apps on Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bytro.supremacy1914&hl=en_US
- 18+ Strategy Games Like Supremacy 1914! (2024) - https://www.mmobomb.com/like/supremacy-1914
- The best space games on PC 2024 - https://www.pcgamesn.com/15-best-pc-space-games
- Save 40% on Solium Infernum on Steam - https://store.steampowered.com/app/1893810/Solium_Infernum/
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