Best Strategy games on Steam
Unlike generic lists, our strategy game recommendations use a rigorous analysis of Steam user reviews to identify and feature only the best, community-validated strategy games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free strategy games are available at the bottom of the page.
Disciples III: Reincarnation
"Disciples III: Reincarnation" offers a revamped and enhanced version of "Disciples III: Renaissance" plus the addon "Resurrection" with all new features, a revised battle engine and all new graphics.Card City Nights
Card City Nights is not a traditional card-trading game. It's an adventure game with zany characters to meet and weird locations to explore. In the center is our new card battle system that breaks away from the fantasy TCG mold with connecting cards to form combos.OMG Zombies!
OMG! Alert! Alert! The City of Redfield has been hit by an outbreak of exploding zombies! For cool and unimportant reasons these suckers literally explode when shot, showering their zombie brethren with gore and causing chain reactions of showering zombie gibs with just a single bullet!Etherlords II
The saga continues! Etherlords II takes you back to the world of Ether and into a whole new realm of fantastic possibilities. Lead your hero on an unforgettable journey through lands filled with unsurpassed beauty and danger to unlock the ultimate mystery.Graviteam Tactics: Operation Star
Graviteam Tactics: Operation Star is a sequel to Achtung Panzer: Kharkov 1943. It’s an Eastern Front war game with solid graphics and sprawling battlefields that really emphasizes the scope of WWII tank combat.Want to step into the role of a commander in the very heart of Kharkov’s defense?Dead Man's Draw
Dead Man’s Draw is a simple and strategic game of luck and skill that boils down strategy gameplay into a single, tense decision.Dogs of War Online
Dogs Of War Online is a multiplayer tactical game, based on the classic board game "Confrontation". Build your own company of mercenaries from the wide range of units available and challenge thousands of players in intense battles.Agarest: Generations of War
At the dawn of time, a terrible war raged between the forces of good and evil, ending in the destruction of the world of Agarest. After their victory, the Gods of Light unified the decaying bodies of the Gods of Darkness and created a new world.Hostile Waters: Antaeus Rising
In 2032 an Earth that knows only peace is forced to relearn the art of war. Twenty years have passed since the population of Earth did a fine job of destroying nearly everything in one final struggle for power by the politicians and military leaders.Tribloos 2
The Tribloos 2 is the sequel to the best-selling time management game, The Tribloos.Trey's village is under threat once more. Before there was only one storm to worry about, now there have been many and Matilda the dragon is being tired out trying to blow them all away!Can You Help Trey Save His Island?Original War
An American geological expedition, under a UN mandate, assesses the natural resources in a distant part of Siberia, deep in the trackless steppes of Eastern Russia. But instead of oil, they discover a deposit of a hitherto unknown mineral.Car Mechanic Simulator 2014
Now you can own and operate your own auto repair service with PlayWay’s Car Mechanic Simulator 2014. Car Mechanic Simulator 2014 gives you the behind the scenes view of the daily dealings at local garages and dealership repair shops.Insurgency
Take to the streets for intense close quarters combat, where a team's survival depends upon securing crucial strongholds and destroying enemy supply in this multiplayer and cooperative Source Engine based experience.Blackguards
What happens when the only hope of a threatened world lies not with heroes in shining armor, but in the hands of a band of misfits and criminals? Blackguards, a new turn-based strategy RPG, explores this very question. You will discover over 180 unique hex-based battlegrounds within a dark and mature story of crime, drugs, and murder.Loren The Amazon Princess
Loren The Amazon Princess is a fantasy epic combining intricate turn-based battles with a heroic tale of overcoming evil - with a twist! In this tale, you play as a loyal servant of the hero rather than the hero herself.The Banner Saga
Live through an epic role-playing Viking saga where your strategic choices directly affect your personal journey. Make allies as you travel with your caravan across this stunning yet harsh landscape. Carefully choose those who will help fight a new threat that jeopardizes an entire civilization.War of the Human Tanks
War of the Human Tanks is a story driven strategy game with a gameplay reminiscent of Battleship and Chess, featuring a story of war, loyalty, sacrifice and human shaped tanks.UFO: Afterlight
The story is situated on Mars. It starts where UFO: Aftermath left off and runs simultaneously with UFO: Aftershock. While the Laputans on Earth are fighting Wargots and Starghosts and finding out what caused the destruction of their home planet, a small colony on Mars is trying to survive and flourish.Kingdom Rush - Tower Defense
Get ready for an epic journey to defend your kingdom against hordes of orcs, trolls, evil wizards and other nasty fiends using a vast arsenal of towers and spells at your command!Fight on forests, mountains and wastelands, customizing your defensive strategy with different tower upgrades and specializations!Not The Robots
You are a robot in an office building. You have to eat furniture and not get caught. A mysterious story unfolds.Not The Robots is this year’s most exciting Roguelike Stealth Furniture Eating Simulator. It’s a game with random levels, permadeath, and the goal of eating furniture - which is also your stealth cover.Small World
CONTROL FANTASY RACES, SET OFF TO CONQUER NEW LANDS, OVERTHROW YOUR ENEMIES AND CLAIM THE VICTORY! In this digital adaptation of the legendary board game, dive into a world inhabited by whimsical fantasy races.Zombie Tycoon 2: Brainhov's Revenge
Pick your faction, Monster, strategy, and find out who gets to become King of the Undead!MARVEL Puzzle Quest
The best in Match 3 puzzle gameplay meets Marvel's biggest Super Heroes and Super Villains with deep RPG leveling, player-vs-player tournaments, Alliances, and much more! It's time to unleash your inner Super Hero and wage war against your enemies!Strategy games are all about planning, tactics, and making smart decisions to outsmart your opponents. Whether you're building empires, commanding armies, or solving complex puzzles, these games offer a unique blend of challenge and fun. In this list, we've gathered the best strategy games on Steam, based on user scores and reviews, to help you find your next favorite game.
What Makes a Great Strategy Game?
Engaging Gameplay Mechanics
The game should offer a variety of strategies and tactics to keep players engaged.
Graphics and Art Style
While not the most important factor, appealing visuals can enhance the gaming experience.
Compelling Story
A good narrative can draw players in and make them care about the outcome.
Community Engagement
Games with active communities often provide additional content, mods, and support.
User reviews and ratings play a crucial role in determining the best games, as they reflect the experiences of real players.
How to Find More Strategy Games
If you're looking for more strategy games, our site makes it easy! You can explore different categories and use filters to narrow down your search. Whether you're interested in real-time strategy, turn-based tactics, or even hybrid games, our curated lists will help you find exactly what you're looking for.
Tips for Choosing the Right Strategy Game
Solo vs. Multiplayer
Decide if you want to play alone or with friends. Some games shine in multiplayer modes, while others are best enjoyed solo.
Complexity Level
Some games are beginner-friendly, while others require a steep learning curve. Check reviews to find games that match your skill level.
Playstyle
Think about whether you prefer fast-paced action or slower, more methodical gameplay. This can help you choose a game that fits your preferences.
What are the best strategy games for beginners?
Some great options for beginners include Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI and XCOM® 2 as they offer accessible gameplay and tutorials.
What's the difference between real-time and turn-based strategy games?
Real-time strategy games require players to make decisions quickly, while turn-based games allow players to take their time and plan their moves.
Can I play strategy games with friends?
Absolutely! Many strategy games offer multiplayer modes, allowing you to team up or compete against friends.
Don't forget to check back for updates as new games are released and ratings change. The world of strategy gaming is always evolving, and we're here to help you stay informed about the best options available. Dive into these games, strategize your way to victory, and most importantly, have fun!
Most played strategy games on Steam
Take a look at the top strategy games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of May 01st 2025.
1. Dota 2
Every day, millions of players worldwide enter battle as one of over a hundred Dota heroes. And no matter if it's their 10th hour of play or 1,000th, there's always something new to discover. With regular updates that ensure a constant evolution of gameplay, features, and heroes, Dota 2 has taken on a life of its own. Dota 2 is a free to play, moba and multiplayer game developed and published by Valve. Released on July 09th 2013 has received 2,473,717 reviews of which 2,016,368 were positive and 457,349 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played strategy game, thanks to its 321,724 peak concurrent players over the last day.2. Football Manager 2024
Build a world-class team ready to dominate your rivals in football’s most prestigious competitions. Progress never stops when you’re pursuing footballing greatness. Football Manager 2024 is a simulation, sports and management game developed by Sports Interactive and published by SEGA. Released on November 06th 2023 has received 22,151 reviews of which 20,099 were positive and 2,052 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. While seeing 39,098 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among strategy games based on player count.3. Hearts of Iron IV
Victory is at your fingertips! Your ability to lead your nation is your supreme weapon, the strategy game Hearts of Iron IV lets you take command of any nation in World War II; the most engaging conflict in world history. Hearts of Iron IV is a strategy, world war ii and grand strategy game developed by Paradox Development Studio and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on June 06th 2016 has received 337,948 reviews of which 301,552 were positive and 36,396 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. While seeing 28,548 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among strategy games based on player count.4. Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI
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 347,827 reviews of which 302,129 were positive and 45,698 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 19,963 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played strategy games.5. RimWorld
A sci-fi colony sim driven by an intelligent AI storyteller. Generates stories by simulating psychology, ecology, gunplay, melee combat, climate, biomes, diplomacy, interpersonal relationships, art, medicine, trade, and more. RimWorld is a colony sim, base-building and survival game developed and published by Ludeon Studios. Released on October 17th 2018 has received 208,163 reviews of which 203,940 were positive and 4,223 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 19,525 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played strategy games.6. Crusader Kings III
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 124,733 reviews of which 112,689 were positive and 12,044 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 17,577 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played strategy games.7. Total War: WARHAMMER III
The cataclysmic conclusion to the Total War: WARHAMMER trilogy is here. Rally your forces and step into the Realm of Chaos, a dimension of mind-bending horror where the very fate of the world will be decided. Will you conquer your Daemons… or command them? Total War: WARHAMMER III is a strategy, turn-based strategy and grand strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and Feral Interactive and published by Feral Interactive and SEGA. Released on February 16th 2022 has received 118,379 reviews of which 85,669 were positive and 32,710 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. With 16,936 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played strategy games.8. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition
42 Civilizations, 229 Campaign Missions, Singleplayer, Co-Op, Multiplayer, In-Game Editor, Mods, Cross-play...It is good to be the king. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition is a strategy, rts and city builder game developed by Forgotten Empires, Tantalus Media, Wicked Witch, World's Edge and CaptureAge and published by Xbox Game Studios. Released on November 14th 2019 has received 160,731 reviews of which 152,453 were positive and 8,278 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 16,136 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played strategy games.9. Europa Universalis IV
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 133,611 reviews of which 115,671 were positive and 17,940 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 12,293 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played strategy games.10. Sid Meier's Civilization® V
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 203,684 reviews of which 195,180 were positive and 8,504 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 12,227 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played strategy games.Best deals on strategy games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of strategy games available on Steam right now, updated on May 01st 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted strategy games.
1. 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! 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 12,556 reviews of which 10,079 were positive and 2,477 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Featuring a massive 97% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for strategy category.2. The Lamplighters League
Recruit a team of misfits with unique abilities and unforgettable personalities, and chase the Banished Court to the ends of the earth in a mix of real-time infiltration, turn-based tactical combat, and a character-driven story of adventure and intrigue. The Lamplighters League is a story rich, adventure and rpg game developed by Harebrained Schemes and published by Paradox Interactive. Released on October 03rd 2023 has received 900 reviews of which 637 were positive and 263 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 97% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in strategy games.3. Field of Glory II
Field of Glory II is a turn-based tactical game set during the Rise of Rome from 280 BC to 25 BC. Field of Glory II is a strategy, simulation and turn-based strategy game developed by Byzantine Games and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on October 12th 2017 has received 1,149 reviews of which 956 were positive and 193 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #3 best deal in strategy games.4. Lords and Villeins
Build a prosperous settlement in a unique simulation of a feudal economy - each family runs their shop, owns their goods, and trades with other villagers in a free market. You will manage the land, build houses, organise events, set taxes, and balance supply and demand while engaging in diplomacy! Lords and Villeins is a colony sim, strategy and city builder game developed by Honestly Games and published by Fulqrum Publishing. Released on November 10th 2022 has received 867 reviews of which 628 were positive and 239 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for strategy games.5. Battle vs Chess
Commanders, assemble your armies! BATTLE vs. CHESS calls for an interactive feather duster, chartering the successful chess game principle into the present day multimedia world. Animated fantasy figurines assemble in magical worlds and await your command! Battle vs Chess is a strategy, chess and casual game developed by Targem Games and published by TopWare Interactive ACE. Released on August 16th 2012 has received 976 reviews of which 695 were positive and 281 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for strategy games.6. Iratus: Lord of the Dead
Iratus: Lord of the Dead is a turn-based tactical roguelike RPG set in a dark fantasy universe. Lead an army of undead to help an angry necromancer in his quest to reach the surface world and bring death to the mortal realms! Iratus: Lord of the Dead is a rpg, strategy and indie game developed by Unfrozen and published by Daedalic Entertainment. Released on April 23rd 2020 has received 7,713 reviews of which 6,621 were positive and 1,092 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for strategy games.7. 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. 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 14,238 reviews of which 11,571 were positive and 2,667 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for strategy games.8. 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? 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 4,541 reviews of which 3,726 were positive and 815 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for strategy games.9. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak
A ground-based RTS prequel to the classic Homeworld games. Assemble your fleet and lead them to victory on the shifting sands of Kharak in this compelling strategy game for PC from Blackbird Interactive. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak is a strategy, rts and sci-fi game developed by Blackbird Interactive and published by Gearbox Publishing. Released on January 20th 2016 has received 8,484 reviews of which 6,772 were positive and 1,712 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for strategy games.10. Hexarchy
Hexarchy is an innovative, fast-paced, historical 4x strategy game where you use cards and deckbuilding to make your decisions. Single-player and online multiplayer. Hexarchy is a turn-based, card game and resource management game developed by Main Tank Software and published by Yogscast Games and Gamersky Games. Released on October 19th 2023 has received 1,135 reviews of which 925 were positive and 210 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for strategy games.Free strategy games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play strategy games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on May 01st 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play strategy games.