Best 4X 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 4x games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free 4x games are available at the bottom of the page.
Filters & Lists
After Inc: Revival
Can you rebuild civilisation after a zombie apocalypse? From the creator of Plague Inc. comes a unique blend of strategic simulation, survival city builder and ‘mini 4X’. Build settlements, harvest resources and shape society as you lead Humanity out of the darkness.
Ascension
In this cultivation 4X strategy game, your sect has been in peril, and so they open a portal—sending you, a young disciple and their last hope, inside. Stand tall as the new sect leader and guide disciples to rebuild what was lost. Sharpen your focus, master alchemy, and ascend to immortality.
Cataclismo
Design and build fortresses brick by brick to stand against endless hordes of Horrors in this real-time strategy game with resource management, siege defense, and exploration. Lead from the ramparts, push back the darkness, and hold fast against the creatures of the Mist.
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.
Exogate Initiative
Build and manage mankind’s first mission across the universe! Create a sprawling facility underground, recruit a diverse group of specialists from around the globe and explore mysterious new worlds through the Exogate.
Songs of Silence
Lead armies, rebuild fallen kingdoms, and rise to greatness in Songs of Silence. Embark on an epic journey through an Art Nouveau-inspired fantasy world with intense battles and captivating storytelling!
ZEPHON
From the developers of Warhammer 40,000: Gladius, ZEPHON is a post-apocalyptic 4X strategy game built on Proxy’s unique tactical combat system. Guide survivors through a turbulent future, navigating unexpected disasters, eldritch horror and cyberpunk monstrosities. What will you do to survive?
NationWar2:Chronicle
NationWar 2.0 is a big strategy game based on the theme of the Spring and Autumn and Warring States period. There are more than 60 countries to choose from in the game. Map 1: 1 restores the mountainous landscapes and rivers of China.
Silence of the Siren
A turn-based sci-fi strategy that combines exploration and exciting clashes on the battlefield. Take control over several different species, raise powerful armies for your heroes and destroy your opponents! This HoMM-like is set in a scifi universe, with new mechanics on top of the classic formula.
Breachway
Explore the galaxy in this deckbuilding, sci-fi roguelike where ship upgrades and crew management are key to your survival. Optimize resource generation, engage in intense turn-based battles, and take on ever-growing threats as you seek out The Signal.
Ara: History Untold
Build a nation starting at any point in human history and compete for supremacy in this epic turn-based strategy game. Engage in diplomacy, fight wars, and go head-to-head with other leaders from history.
Sins of a Solar Empire II
Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics.
Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic
Build a soviet republic from an impoverished country into a rich industrial superpower in a city builder with intricate production chains and a fully simulated global economy. Manage the lives of your citizens from education to work and party loyalty to criminal activity.
Empires of the Undergrowth
Command swarms of warriors at an unprecedented scale of warfare in this blend of RTS and base-building. Lead ant colonies against the many fearsome threats of the insect world, while building intricate nests, developing pheromone-based tactics, and evolving to meet growing dangers.
Viking Rise
Race against other players to explore Valhalla and conquer Midgard!
Songs of Conquest
Raise mighty armies, wield ancient magic and forge an empire. This turn-based strategy adventure game fuses strategic decision making, tactical combat and kingdom management.
Great Houses of Calderia
Great Houses of Calderia is a Feudal Grand Strategy game focusing on family dynamics & stories. Use your family strengths to compete against rivals to rise in the ranks of Calderia - produce, trade, scheme, bribe, and battle to build your legacy of power!
Manor Lords
Manor Lords is a medieval strategy game featuring in-depth city building, large-scale tactical battles, and complex economic and social simulations. Rule your lands as a medieval lord – the seasons pass, the weather changes, and cities rise and fall.
Revival: Recolonization
Set in a post-apoc version of Earth, Revival is a 4x strategy game where the world and its rules can change at key moments, creating a deep and highly replayable experience.
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri™ Planetary Pack
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri™ Planetary Pack includes the original Alpha Centauri and the expansion, Alien Crossfire.
CivIdle
CivIdle is an idle/incremental game that allows you to lead your own civilization through thousands of years from ancient times to the modern era. Expand your territory, explore a vast tech tree, build various wonders, and trade with global players: empire must grow and numbers must go up!
WitchHand
You're a witch, leading your coven into new, unfriendly lands. Use the cards you find to build and expand your civilization. Befriend the local covens or use their bones to fuel your spells. Gather your familiars, the witching hour is nigh.
Most played 4x games on Steam
Take a look at the top 4x games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of July 06th 2025.
1. 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 134,436 reviews of which 116,432 were positive and 18,004 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played 4x game, thanks to its 14,740 peak concurrent players over the last day.
8.6
116,432
18,004
14,740
players
2. Stellaris
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 13,275 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among 4x games based on player count.
8.5
159,527
25,906
13,275
players
3. Age of Wonders 4
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. While seeing 2,491 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among 4x games based on player count.
8
14,901
3,350
2,491
players
4. 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. 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 1,684 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played 4x games.
9.3
4,423
169
1,684
players
5. Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete
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 1,650 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played 4x games.
8.7
6,485
746
1,650
players
6. Farthest Frontier
Protect and guide your people as you forge a town from untamed wilderness at the edge of the known world. Harvest raw materials, hunt, fish and farm to survive. Produce crafted items to trade, consume, equip and fight with as you battle for your survival against the elements and outside threats. Farthest Frontier is a early access, historical and agriculture game developed and published by Crate Entertainment. Released on August 09th 2022 has received 19,504 reviews of which 16,780 were positive and 2,724 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. With 1,241 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played 4x games.
8.4
16,780
2,724
1,241
players
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 14,975 reviews of which 12,195 were positive and 2,780 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. With 1,051 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played 4x games.
8.0
12,195
2,780
1,051
players
8. Sins of a Solar Empire II
Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics. Sins of a Solar Empire II is a space, strategy and 4x game developed by Stardock Entertainment and Ironclad Games Corporation and published by Stardock Entertainment. Released on August 15th 2024 has received 6,946 reviews of which 5,949 were positive and 997 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. With 778 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played 4x games.
8.3
5,949
997
778
players
9. Sid Meier's Civilization® IV
With over 6 million units sold and unprecedented critical acclaim from fans and press around the world, Sid Meier's Civilization is recognized as one of the greatest PC game franchises of all-time. Now, Sid Meier and Firaxis Games will take this incredibly fun and addictive game to new heights by adding new ways to play and win, new... Sid Meier's Civilization® IV 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 3,375 reviews of which 3,134 were positive and 241 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 694 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played 4x games.
8.9
3,134
241
694
players
10. HUMANKIND™
Rewrite history by shaping a civilization as unique as you are. Combine 60 cultures from the Ancient Era to the Modern Age to lead your empire to victory. Build thriving cities, outsmart rivals in epic battles, spread your influence and leave your mark on HUMANKIND™. HUMANKIND™ is a strategy, turn-based strategy and 4x game developed by AMPLITUDE Studios and published by SEGA. Released on August 17th 2021 has received 27,245 reviews of which 18,573 were positive and 8,672 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.7 out of 10. With 653 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played 4x games.
6.7
18,573
8,672
653
players
Best deals on 4x games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of 4x games available on Steam right now, updated on July 06th 2025. Looking for even more deals? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of discounted 4x games.
1. 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 14,975 reviews of which 12,195 were positive and 2,780 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.0 out of 10. Featuring a massive 99% discount, this game currently holds the #1 spot in the best deals for 4x category.
8.0
12,195
2,780
-99%
40.86€
0.73€
2. 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 4,673 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 4x games.
8.0
3,841
832
-99%
39.99€
0.33€
3. Interstellar Space: Genesis
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 4x games.
7.9
648
124
-99%
27.99€
0.46€
4. 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 12,578 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 4x games.
7.9
10,093
2,485
-99%
29.99€
0.42€
5. Driftland: The Magic Revival
After a devastating war between ancient mages, a powerful spell is all that holds together the shattered planet of Driftland. Take on the role of a powerful mage capable of moving and connecting floating lands, develop a mighty empire, and restore Driftland to its former glory! Driftland: The Magic Revival is a rts, 4x and god game game developed and published by Star Drifters. Released on April 18th 2019 has received 1,930 reviews of which 1,407 were positive and 523 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 99% discount, this title has earned the #5 position in the best deals for 4x games.
7.1
1,407
523
-99%
16.99€
0.32€
6. Distant Worlds 2
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 4x games.
6.9
2,304
933
-99%
48.99€
0.37€
7. AI War 2
The most devious and acclaimed artificial intelligence in strategy gaming is better than ever. A grand strategy/RTS hybrid that reverses many conventions of both genres. Take territory without attracting attention, build your empire with care, and adapt to an ever-evolving galactic battleground. AI War 2 is a 4x, grand strategy and multiplayer game developed and published by Arcen Games and LLC. Released on October 22nd 2019 has received 1,490 reviews of which 1,318 were positive and 172 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #7 position in the best deals for 4x games.
8.4
1,318
172
-98%
19.50€
0.49€
8. Galactic Civilizations III
Build a civilization that will stand the test of time in the largest space-based strategy game ever! Choose from dozens of unique races and make a name for yourself across the galaxy through diplomacy, espionage, technological advances, and more. Galactic Civilizations III is a aliens, sci-fi and 4x game developed and published by Stardock Entertainment. Released on May 14th 2015 has received 10,282 reviews of which 7,874 were positive and 2,408 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #8 position in the best deals for 4x games.
7.5
7,874
2,408
-98%
28.99€
0.83€
9. 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. Distant Worlds: Universe is a strategy, 4x and space game developed by Code Force and published by Slitherine Ltd.. Released on May 23rd 2014 has received 1,819 reviews of which 1,377 were positive and 442 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for 4x games.
7.3
1,377
442
-98%
28.99€
0.69€
10. Revival: Recolonization
Set in a post-apoc version of Earth, Revival is a 4x strategy game where the world and its rules can change at key moments, creating a deep and highly replayable experience. Revival: Recolonization is a 4x, grand strategy and turn-based strategy game developed and published by HeroCraft PC. Released on April 11th 2024 has received 404 reviews of which 290 were positive and 114 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 98% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for 4x games.
6.8
290
114
-98%
28.99€
0.59€
Free 4x games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play 4x games you can enjoy on Steam right now, updated on July 06th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play 4x games.
1. Viking Rise
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 600 reviews of which 439 were positive and 161 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 out of 10. With 429 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free 4x games on Steam.
7.0
439
161
429
players
2. Doomsday: Last Survivors
New tower defense gameplay! The apocalypse has come, and zombies are running amok. As the leader of the survivors, collect and use resources to defend their last shelter! Doomsday: Last Survivors is a strategy, strategy rpg and 4x game developed and published by IGG SINGAPORE PTE. LTD.. Released on June 25th 2023 has received 670 reviews of which 448 were positive and 222 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.5 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 360, this 4x game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free 4x games on Steam.
6.5
448
222
360
players
3. Demise of Nations
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 #3 spot among the most played free 4x games on Steam.
7.6
423
100
10
players
4. Gods and Idols
Take the role of a newly ascended deity in Gods and Idols. Carve your place among the stars in an open, dynamic, and massive MMORTS universe. Command the powers of the cosmos, form alliances, and use your worshipers as instruments to further your goals. Gods and Idols is a free to play, 4x and god game game developed and published by JatteGames. Released on December 12th 2016 has received 756 reviews of which 531 were positive and 225 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.8 out of 10. The game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played free 4x games on Steam.
6.8
531
225
2
players