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.
Act of War: High Treason
The highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed game Act of War: Direct Action picks up where the techno-thriller left off. On the eve of the U.S. Presidential elections, simultaneous terrorist attacks hit both candidates. Clues point to corrupt elements within the U.S.Overlord™: Raising Hell
How evil can you get? Discover how corruptible you are in Overlord, the twisted fantasy action adventure where you can be evil (or really evil). In the game's seriously warped fantasy world, players will become the Overlord and get first-hand experience of how absolute power corrupts absolutely.PuzzleQuest: Challenge of the Warlords
PuzzleQuest: Challenge of the Warlords delivers, for the first time ever, classic puzzle-game action backed with an epic story of good vs. evil. Challenge your match 3 skills as you battle against computer opponents to save the Kingdom of Etheria from the evil Lord Bane.Overlord™
Prepare to be tempted, mesmerized and thrilled, become the Overlord, how corrupt you become depends on how you handle any given situation. Your actions impact the game world. With incredible power at your disposal and a team of evil minded minions to do your evil bidding, how will you resist the temptation to be incredibly despotic?Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts
The next chapter in the #1 rated RTS franchise thrusts players into a hellish war torn landscape to command two battle-hardened armies in relentless campaigns for honor and country. Players lead the tenacious British 2nd Army during the heroic World War II liberation of Caen, France, and command the German Panzer Elite as they struggle...Medieval II: Total War™ Kingdoms
Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms is the official expansion to last year's award-winning Medieval II: Total War, presenting players with all-new territories to explore, troops to command, and enemies to conquer.Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War - Anniversary Edition
All of Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War in one glorious package. Play the genre-defining classic real time strategy game in all its blood-soaked glory, including four complete campaigns and nine full-fledged factions.Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword
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.Company of Heroes - Legacy Edition
Delivering a visceral WWII gaming experience, Company of Heroes redefines RTS by bringing the sacrifice of heroic soldiers, war-ravaged environments, and dynamic battlefields to life. This legacy version also grants access to the latest version of COH, just called "Company of Heroes".Nexus - The Jupiter Incident
Ambitious megacorporations monopolize the conquest of space and the colonization of the solar system. At the very edge of the solar system, the companies make a discovery that will shift the technological advantage and upset the balance. And so a new conflict is born: "The Jupiter Incident."X-COM: Terror From the Deep
The war continues... X-COM: UFO Defense brought you to a galactic battlefield. X-COM: Terror from the Deep brings the alien terror into a totally new dimension.Seeking to take advantage of a weakened Earth, X-COM's deep space foes unexpectedly change strategy and launch a powerful second front against planet Earth.Railroad Tycoon II Platinum
Includes Railroad Tycoon II and the expansion The Second Century It can take you from New York to South Africa. It can take you from the year 1804 to the year 2000. It can take you from penniless manual laborer to powerful multi-millionaire.Railroad Tycoon 3
Railroad Tycoon 3 features 25 scenarios challenging players to recreate magnificent feats of railroading history from around the world. Players can lay track (including tunnels and overpasses), pick from over 40 locomotives from early steams to modern bullets, choose to haul over 35 types of cargo in a dynamic economy, and participate in...Sid Meier's Railroads!
Sid Meier's Railroads! marks the return of the watershed title in simulation/strategy gaming that launched the popular "tycoon" genre, and inspired a new generation of games. Sid Meier's Railroads!CivCity: Rome
CivCity: Rome, an innovative city builder inspired by the world of Sid Meiers Civilization, and created by a collaboration between Firefly Studios and Firaxis Games, invites players to shift focus from building a multi-city empire and zoom-in on the great cities of the Roman Empire, culminating in Rome itself!Civilization IV®: Warlords
Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Warlords is the first expansion pack for the award-winning game that has become an instant world-wide hit. Paying homage to some of history's greatest military leaders, the expansion delivers six unique and interesting scenarios, giving players the chance to change the course of history with the help of their...Joint Task Force
Joint Task Force is the real-time strategy (RTS) game where you command the frontline forces in tomorrow's most hazardous conflicts. Lead twenty dramatic missions in explosive war-zones including the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Balkans.Hitman: Codename 47
As the enigmatic Hitman, you must use stealth and tactical problem solving to enter, execute and exit your assignment with minimum attention and maximum effectiveness. For a price, you have access to the most devious devices, but how you use them will determine if you retire as a millionaire or get permanently retired.Battlestations: Midway
Battlestations: Midway is an immense action game that drops players into massive air, sea, and undersea battles from Pearl Harbor to the Battle of Midway.Hitman: Blood Money
Money Talks. Silence Pays. Prepare to Make a Killing. When assassins from Agent 47's contract agency, The ICA, are eliminated in a series of hits, it seems a larger, more powerful agency has entered the fray. Sensing he may be a target, 47 travels to America, and prepares to make a killing.Commandos 3: Destination Berlin
Commandos 3: Destination Berlin is a game of real-time tactics that places you in command of an elite unit of Special Forces behind enemy lines in the European theater of World War II.Commandos 2: Men of Courage
Commandos 2: Men of Courage is a tactical action/strategy game set against the backdrop of World War II. Take control of an elite group of commandos who must venture deep into enemy territory and utilize their combined expertise to complete a series of mission-based objectives.Commandos: Beyond the Call of Duty
You have been selected for active service in the Commandos Corps, and must now mobilize in a series of 8 new dangerous missions.Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines
Commandos: Behind Enemy Lines is a real-time tactics game set in World War II that puts you in command of a small squad of elite troopers. Send them behind enemy lines on a series of hazardous missions, and bring them back alive.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 April 30th 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 284,822 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 33,976 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 23,200 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among strategy games based on player count.4. 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 18,188 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played strategy games.5. 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 17,726 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 124,402 reviews of which 112,414 were positive and 11,988 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 15,811 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 14,590 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 14,016 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played strategy games.9. 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 11,528 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played strategy games.10. Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel
Yu-Gi-Oh! MASTER DUEL is the ultimate free-to-play cross-platform strategy card game with fast-paced Duels, stunning HD graphics and a new, dynamic soundtrack! Get ready to challenge Duelists around the world! Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel is a card game, free to play and strategy game developed and published by KONAMI. Released on January 18th 2022 has received 85,549 reviews of which 63,660 were positive and 21,889 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. With 10,977 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 April 30th 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. 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 #7 position in the best deals for strategy games.8. 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 #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 April 30th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play strategy games.