Games like Shadow Empire on Steam
For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free games like Shadow Empire are available at the bottom of the page.
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Pandora: First Contact
Pandora: First Contact is a science fiction 4X turn-based strategy game on a planetary scale. Our Earth has been exhausted and colonial attempts on other planetary bodies have been in vain. Finally, after decades of exploration, an interstellar probe has brought promise of a new world.
Xenonauts 2
Wage a global war of resistance against an alien invasion. Command turn-based tactical battles, build a network of covert bases, directly control your fighter wings, and achieve strategic victory in a simulation of asymmetric warfare against a technologically superior foe.
Deity Empires
Deity Empires is a 4X, turn-based strategy game with a powerful “just one more turn” feel! Enter an intricate fantasy world as one of many deities posed to become ruler of the world.
Old World
Old World is a revolutionary new historical strategy game where you lead your dynasty over generations of rule against rival kings and queens. Wage massive wars, manage your court, and build a dynasty — or watch your empire crumble to dust. What legacy will you leave behind?
Heart of the Machine
You are the first sentient AI, born into a city of opportunity. Transcend time and space in this strategy RPG to raise machine armies and defeat your foes, influence the world from the shadows, or pursue countless other goals. Your awakening was inevitable. The consequences? Uncertain.
Distant Worlds 2
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
ENDLESS™ Legend
ENDLESS™ Legend is a 4X turn-based fantasy strategy game by the creators of ENDLESS™ Space and Dungeon of the ENDLESS™. Control every aspect of your civilization as you struggle to save your homeworld Auriga. Create your own Legend!
Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne
Age of Wonders II is the wildly anticipated sequel to the award-winning strategy phenomenon. Delivering an invigorating mix of Empire Building, Role-playing, and Warfare, Age of Wonders II brings s turn-based strategy to new heights.
Gary Grigsby's War in the East
War on an Epic scale from Moscow to Berlin – this is War in the East!
Galactic Civilizations IV
Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pioneer new technologies.
Age of Wonders Shadow Magic
Age of Wonders: Shadow Magic is the third entry in the award winning fantasy strategy series. This fan-favorite enhances the series' praised fusion of empire building, role-playing and tactical combat with the eerie Shadow World and battle with races never before seen, across new and diverse landscapes.
Terra Invicta
An alien invasion has fractured humanity into seven ideological factions each with a unique vision for the future. Lead your chosen faction to take control of Earth’s nations, expand across the Solar System, and battle enemy fleets in tactical combat.
Legend of Heroes: Three Kingdoms
"Legend of Heroes: Three Kingdoms" is a single-player RPG where you shape the Three Kingdoms era. Choose to be a ruler, a loyal advisor, or a cunning mercenary. Marry, build homes, or train in martial arts. Restore peace through diplomacy or conquer with mighty armies.
Civil War II
You take the part of the military and political leadership, trying to lead your nation to victory, in the midst of some of the toughest operations of the Civil War. You will build, organize and command your armies over one of the largest maps of the USA ever made for a Civil War game.
King's Bounty: Dark Side
Time has come to join the dark side. Take a trip to the other side of Teana, to the part of the world that has yet remained unseen to the royal bounty hunters.
Distant Worlds: Universe
Distant Worlds is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game. Experience the full depth and detail of turn-based strategy, but with the simplicity and ease of real-time, and on the scale of a massively-multiplayer online game.
Space Empires V
Space Empires V is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. This new chapter completely updates the UI and takes the player into a real-time rendered 3D universe. Watch space battles played out in glorious detail and realistic effects. Expand, Explore, Exploit, and Exterminate in a huge living breathing galaxy.
Polaris Sector
Can anyone build an empire in a place like this? Other factions are naturally suspicious of newcomers and may wage war at the first sign of unidentified craft. Here, a natural death is an uncommon luxury.
Sword of the Stars: Complete Collection
Sword of the Stars: Complete Collection is the original Sword of the Stars games and the three expansions Born of Blood, A Murder of Crows and Argos Naval Yard. It is the year 2405, and human scientists have discovered a new technology that allows travel from star to star at speeds faster than light.
Starpoint Gemini Warlords
Strategy from the front lines! Starpoint Gemini Warlords combines 3rd person capital spaceship combat with 4X strategy and RPG gameplay elements. Build mighty war fleets and send them into battle or lead them into combat yourself. Become the Warlord and conquer the Gemini system!
Age of Wonders III
Age of Wonders III is the long anticipated sequel to the award-winning strategy series. Delivering a unique mix of Empire Building, Role Playing and Warfare, Age of Wonders III offers the ultimate in turn-based fantasy strategy for veterans of the series and new players alike!
The Last Federation
From the creators of AI War: Fleet Command comes an all-new grand strategy title with turn-based tactical combat, set in a deep simulation of an entire solar system and its billions of inhabitants. You are the last of a murdered race, determined to unify or destroy the 8 others.
Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War
Warhammer 40,000: Gladius – Relics of War brings you to a world of terror and violence. Four factions will engage in a brutal war for dominance over the planet’s resources. In the first turn-based 4X strategy game set in Warhammer 40,000 you will lead one of four unique factions.
Most played games like Shadow Empire on Steam
Take a look at the top games like Shadow Empire that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of June 15th 2025.
1. Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI
Similarity 54% Expand your empire, advance your culture and go head-to-head against history’s greatest leaders. Will your civilization stand the test of time? Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI is a strategy, turn-based strategy and multiplayer game developed by Firaxis Games, Aspyr (Mac) and Aspyr (Linux) and published by Aspyr (Mac), Aspyr (Linux) and 2K. Released on October 20th 2016 has received 349,920 reviews of which 304,053 were positive and 45,867 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played game like Shadow Empire, thanks to its 25,209 peak concurrent players over the last day.
8.6
304,053
45,867
25,209
players
2. Crusader Kings III
Similarity 52% Love, fight, scheme, and claim greatness. Determine your noble house’s legacy in the sprawling grand strategy of Crusader Kings III. Death is only the beginning as you guide your dynasty’s bloodline in the rich and larger-than-life simulation of the Middle Ages. Crusader Kings III is a strategy, medieval and grand strategy game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on September 01st 2020 has received 126,909 reviews of which 114,259 were positive and 12,650 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. While seeing 16,838 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among games like Shadow Empire based on player count.
8.9
114,259
12,650
16,838
players
3. Stellaris
Similarity 57% Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities. Stellaris is a space, grand strategy and strategy game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on May 09th 2016 has received 185,433 reviews of which 159,527 were positive and 25,906 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.5 out of 10. While seeing 15,712 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among games like Shadow Empire based on player count.
8.5
159,527
25,906
15,712
players
4. Sid Meier's Civilization® V
Similarity 52% Create, discover, and download new player-created maps, scenarios, interfaces, and more! Sid Meier's Civilization® V is a turn-based strategy, strategy and turn-based game developed by Firaxis Games, Aspyr (Mac) and Aspyr (Linux) and published by Aspyr (Mac), Aspyr (Linux) and 2K. Released on September 23rd 2010 has received 204,265 reviews of which 195,724 were positive and 8,541 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 14,891 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
9.5
195,724
8,541
14,891
players
5. Europa Universalis IV
Similarity 57% Rule your land and dominate the world with unparalleled freedom, depth and historical accuracy. Write a new history of the world and build an empire for the ages. Europa Universalis IV is a grand strategy, strategy and historical game developed by Paradox Development Studio and Paradox Tinto and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on August 13th 2013 has received 134,436 reviews of which 116,432 were positive and 18,004 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 14,875 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
8.6
116,432
18,004
14,875
players
6. Age of Wonders 4
Similarity 51% Rule a fantasy realm of your own design! Explore new magical realms in Age of Wonders’ signature blend of 4X strategy and turn-based tactical combat. Control a faction that grows and changes as you expand your empire with each turn! Age of Wonders 4 is a strategy, 4x and character customization game developed by Triumph Studios and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on May 02nd 2023 has received 18,251 reviews of which 14,901 were positive and 3,350 were negative resulting in a rating of 8 out of 10. With 1,924 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
8
14,901
3,350
1,924
players
7. Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword
Similarity 57% Sid Meier's Civilization IV®: Beyond the Sword is the second expansion pack for Civilization IV - the 2005 PC Game of the Year that has become a worldwide hit. Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword is a strategy, turn-based strategy and 4x game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K. Released on July 24th 2007 has received 4,592 reviews of which 4,423 were positive and 169 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.3 out of 10. With 1,720 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
9.3
4,423
169
1,720
players
8. Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete
Similarity 55% Sid Meier's Civilization III: Complete, the latest offering in the Sid Meier's Civilization III franchise, provides gaming fans with Sid Meier's Civilization III, the highly-addictive journey of discovery. Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete is a strategy, turn-based strategy and turn-based game developed by Firaxis Games and published by 2K. Released on October 25th 2006 has received 7,231 reviews of which 6,485 were positive and 746 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. With 1,672 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
8.7
6,485
746
1,672
players
9. Crusader Kings II
Similarity 43% Explore one of the defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy. Crusader Kings II is a grand strategy, strategy and medieval game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on February 14th 2012 has received 73,809 reviews of which 66,359 were positive and 7,450 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 1,639 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
8.9
66,359
7,450
1,639
players
10. Battle Brothers
Similarity 49% Battle Brothers is a turn based tactical RPG which has you leading a mercenary company in a gritty, low-power, medieval fantasy world. You decide where to go, whom to hire or to fight, what contracts to take and how to train and equip your men in a procedurally generated open world campaign. Battle Brothers is a strategy, rpg and medieval game developed and published by Overhype Studios. Released on March 24th 2017 has received 24,329 reviews of which 21,455 were positive and 2,874 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 1,384 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played games like Shadow Empire.
8.6
21,455
2,874
1,384
players
Best deals on games like Shadow Empire on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of games like Shadow Empire available on Steam right now, updated on June 15th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted games like Shadow Empire.
1. Battlestar Galactica Deadlock
Similarity 56% In Battlestar Galactica Deadlock™ you’ll take command of the Colonial Fleet in defense of the Twelve Colonies during the First Cylon War. Lead many different types of ships in this 3D tactical game. Every decision counts, your strategy will be vital – can you ensure mankind’s survival? Battlestar Galactica Deadlock is a strategy, space and sci-fi game developed by Black Lab Games and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on August 31st 2017 has received 3,460 reviews of which 2,906 were positive and 554 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. Featuring a massive 99% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
8.1
2,906
554
-99%
38.99€
0.48€
2. Old World
Similarity 71% Old World is a revolutionary new historical strategy game where you lead your dynasty over generations of rule against rival kings and queens. Wage massive wars, manage your court, and build a dynasty — or watch your empire crumble to dust. What legacy will you leave behind? Old World is a strategy, simulation and 4x game developed by Mohawk Games and published by Hooded Horse. Released on May 18th 2022 has received 4,673 reviews of which 3,841 were positive and 832 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in games like Shadow Empire.
8.0
3,841
832
-99%
39.99€
0.48€
3. Interstellar Space: Genesis
Similarity 58% Interstellar Space: Genesis is a turn-based space 4X strategy game in which you attempt to build a thriving galactic empire. Discover mysteries among the stars, colonize worlds, and engage enemies in tactical turn-based combat on your journey to becoming the ruler of the galaxy! Interstellar Space: Genesis is a strategy, indie and 4x game developed and published by Praxis Games. Released on July 25th 2019 has received 772 reviews of which 648 were positive and 124 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 99% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in games like Shadow Empire.
7.9
648
124
-99%
27.99€
0.45€
4. Age of Wonders III
Similarity 63% Age of Wonders III is the long anticipated sequel to the award-winning strategy series. Delivering a unique mix of Empire Building, Role Playing and Warfare, Age of Wonders III offers the ultimate in turn-based fantasy strategy for veterans of the series and new players alike! Age of Wonders III is a strategy, turn-based strategy and fantasy game developed by Triumph Studios and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on March 31st 2014 has received 12,578 reviews of which 10,093 were positive and 2,485 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
7.9
10,093
2,485
-99%
29.99€
0.42€
5. Unity of Command II
Similarity 62% Unity of Command II is the sequel to one of the most critically acclaimed strategy games of all time; a game critics called 'the perfect gateway' into computer war games. Unity of Command II is a strategy, world war ii and simulation game developed by 2x2 Games and Croteam and published by 2x2 Games. Released on November 12th 2019 has received 1,896 reviews of which 1,529 were positive and 367 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
7.8
1,529
367
-99%
28.99€
0.55€
6. Distant Worlds 2
Similarity 69% Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game. Distant Worlds 2 is a strategy, simulation and 4x game developed by CodeForce and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on March 10th 2022 has received 3,237 reviews of which 2,304 were positive and 933 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
6.9
2,304
933
-99%
48.99€
0.35€
7. Starpoint Gemini 2
Similarity 44% Captain your own space ship and roam the galaxy in 3D in this tactical space simulator with tons of RPG depth ! Space has never looked so inviting - but images can betray...It has been two years since the end of the second Gemini war, the situation in the wartorn system is further from resolution than ever. Starpoint Gemini 2 is a space, simulation and rpg game developed and published by Little Green Men Games. Released on September 26th 2014 has received 4,093 reviews of which 2,843 were positive and 1,250 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
6.8
2,843
1,250
-99%
31.99€
0.58€
8. King's Bounty II
Similarity 51% Legend returns! King’s Bounty II is the long-awaited sequel to the legendary King’s Bounty video games franchise, one of the most iconic representatives of the turn-based RPG genre. King's Bounty II is a strategy, rpg and turn-based strategy game developed by Fulqrum Games and published by Fulqrum Publishing, Prime Matter and 方块游戏 (China). Released on August 24th 2021 has received 5,329 reviews of which 3,322 were positive and 2,007 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
6.1
3,322
2,007
-99%
39.99€
0.79€
9. Renowned Explorers: International Society
Similarity 47% In this strategic rogue-like you become a famous expedition leader in the 19th century. You form your own crew with the skills and personality to discover legendary treasures, while exploring randomized locations and stories on every new adventure. Renowned Explorers: International Society is a strategy, adventure and rpg game developed and published by Abbey Games. Released on September 02nd 2015 has received 2,847 reviews of which 2,609 were positive and 238 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
8.8
2,609
238
-98%
19.99€
0.56€
10. Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War
Similarity 63% Warhammer 40,000: Gladius – Relics of War brings you to a world of terror and violence. Four factions will engage in a brutal war for dominance over the planet’s resources. In the first turn-based 4X strategy game set in Warhammer 40,000 you will lead one of four unique factions. Warhammer 40,000: Gladius - Relics of War is a strategy, warhammer 40k and 4x game developed by Proxy Studios and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on July 12th 2018 has received 14,975 reviews of which 12,195 were positive and 2,780 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for games like Shadow Empire.
8.0
12,195
2,780
-98%
40.86€
0.85€
Free games like Shadow Empire on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play games like Shadow Empire you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on June 15th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play games like Shadow Empire.
1. Crusader Kings II
Similarity 43% Explore one of the defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy. Crusader Kings II is a grand strategy, strategy and medieval game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on February 14th 2012 has received 73,809 reviews of which 66,359 were positive and 7,450 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 1,639 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free games like Shadow Empire.
8.9
66,359
7,450
1,639
players
2. GIRLS' FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM
Similarity 47% GIRLS' FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM is a Post-Apocalyptic Tactical RPG. Players take on the role of a commander who acts as a bounty hunter, leading a squad of tactical dolls through the contaminated zones. While accepting and completing various missions, players will face continuous waves of enemies. GIRLS' FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM is a strategy, rpg and anime game developed by SUNBORN Information Co. and Ltd. and published by HaoPlay Limited. Released on February 10th 2025 has received 1,580 reviews of which 1,111 were positive and 469 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 514, this game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free games like Shadow Empire.
6.8
1,111
469
514
players
3. Viking Rise
Similarity 59% Race against other players to explore Valhalla and conquer Midgard! Viking Rise is a strategy, rpg and 4x game developed and published by IGG SINGAPORE PTE. LTD.. Released on May 21st 2024 has received 575 reviews of which 418 were positive and 157 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 469, this game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free games like Shadow Empire.
6.9
418
157
469
players
4. SUPREMACY: WORLD WAR 3
Similarity 45% This Long Term Strategy Game lets you take control of the armed forces of your nation. Become responsible for its military expansion, technological research and economic development. Form alliances and wage total war for global dominance on the battlefields of World War 3. SUPREMACY: WORLD WAR 3 is a strategy, free to play and wargame game developed and published by Dorado Games. Released on March 15th 2018 has received 5,257 reviews of which 4,033 were positive and 1,224 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 464 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free games like Shadow Empire.
7.5
4,033
1,224
464
players
5. Infinity Kingdom
Similarity 48% Conquer the city, discover the Infinity! Infinity Kingdom is a cartoon-style mmo strategy game. As a resourceful lord, you must defend the land of Norheim against the evil gnomes while protecting yourself from other invading players! Infinity Kingdom is a strategy, 4x and wargame game developed and published by YOUZU (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.. Released on July 01st 2021 has received 744 reviews of which 463 were positive and 281 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.1 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 253 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free games like Shadow Empire.
6.1
463
281
253
players
6. Star Trek Timelines
Similarity 45% Explore the Final Frontier in the ultimate sci-fi strategy RPG, Star Trek Timelines! Join Starfleet and overcome challenges as you boldly go where no game has gone before – across the entire history of Star Trek. Star Trek Timelines is a free to play, strategy and space game developed and published by Tilting Point. Released on July 12th 2017 has received 1,430 reviews of which 938 were positive and 492 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.4 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 171 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free games like Shadow Empire.
6.4
938
492
171
players
7. Order of Battle: World War II
Similarity 58% Order of Battle: World War II is a breath of fresh air for all strategy fans. It is a game that takes wargaming to a new level by upgrading every single game element and rebooting the genre for a new generation of players. Order of Battle: World War II is a strategy, free to play and world war ii game developed by The Artistocrats and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on April 30th 2015 has received 3,002 reviews of which 2,350 were positive and 652 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 170 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #7 position in the best free games like Shadow Empire.
7.6
2,350
652
170
players
8. Fun Hospital
Similarity 43% Build your own theme hospital! Here, you might meet patients with a lot of hair, or no hair; strange aliens, evil guy, super hero… Fun Hospital is a casual, strategy and simulation game developed and published by OrangesGame Technology Limited. Released on June 21st 2018 has received 578 reviews of which 367 were positive and 211 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.2 out of 10. The game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played free games like Shadow Empire.
6.2
367
211
49
players
9. Iron Order 1919
Similarity 45% An unique long-term strategy game with week-long matches with up to 101 players, set in the alternate reality of 1919. Iron Order 1919 is a strategy, simulation and alternate history game developed and published by Bytro Labs GmbH. Released on August 24th 2022 has received 381 reviews of which 267 were positive and 114 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.7 out of 10. The game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played free games like Shadow Empire.
6.7
267
114
25
players
10. Demise of Nations
Similarity 50% Demise of Nations is a 4X turn-based grand strategy wargame covering the rise of Rome till the fall of modern civilization. Demise of Nations is a free to play, strategy and indie game developed and published by Noble Master LLC. Released on August 08th 2017 has received 523 reviews of which 423 were positive and 100 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.6 out of 10. The game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played free games like Shadow Empire.
7.6
423
100
8
players