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.
Taur
Taur is an action-strategy sci-fi game. Control the Prime Cannon and unlock all of its powerful weapons and abilities. Build turrets, droids, aircraft and more as you fight to protect the homeworld of the Tauron droids against a relentless invasion. Will your Taur stand against the Imperion warmachine?NEOVERSE
Neoverse is a beautiful, fantastic game consisting of adventures with thrilling challenges. It is a strategic, action, rogue-lite, deck building game that will test the player’s skill. Start an adventure with unique heroes to save the world along various timelines.Warzone 2100
In the late 21st century, the world's civilizations are wiped out by a series of nuclear strikes, seemingly caused by a massive malfunction of the new NASDA (North American Strategic Defense Agency) strategic defense system.Path of Giants
Path of Giants is a serene puzzle adventure that follows three adorable explorers as they take on an icy mountain full of trials in search of a lost treasure. Control three characters, use their teamwork, leave no one behind, and hopefully find some gold!Tentacle Girl
Aoi and Sally, a treasure hunter, found a cave during the expedition. They foresee a treasure in it. So I decided to go in and take a look. Unexpectedly, this is a tentacled cave.Pro 11 - Football Manager Game
Become the best football manager. Join Pro 11 and claim the championship!Boris and the Dark Survival
A lone wolf struggles to survive the inky abyss of Joey Drew Studios in this top-down survival horror.VenusBlood FRONTIER International
Loki Muspelheim, an exiled member of demon nobility strives for the throne of the Dark Lord who has wronged him. To succeed the throne and exact his revenge, he must obtain the hidden treasure on the Floating Continent of Yggdrasil, protected by the goddesses of the seasons and their Chief God Odin.Valgrave: Immortal Plains
Valgrave is a free-to-play combo focused Battle Royale game. Every game you'll decide if are a spell-slinging sorcerer or prefer to let your fists do the talking. Grab a combo and level up to show up your opponents. There are over 100,000 combinations.Void Destroyer 2
Start with nothing... End with everything! All you have is a basic ship, barely fit for combat, with it you'll start your journey and empire. A open world space sandbox, inspired by and expanding the classics.Stoneshard
Stoneshard is a challenging turn-based RPG set in an open world. Experience the unforgiving life of a medieval mercenary: travel across the war-torn kingdom, fulfill contracts, fight, mend your wounds and develop your character without any restrictions.Through the Darkest of Times
Berlin 1933. “Adolf Hitler is chancellor!” We all know the consequences this message bore. Unspeakable horrors and suffering would sweep across the world. Few would stand and fight the monstrosity that was the German Reich. Will you? Lead an underground resistance group Through the Darkest of Times.Mortal Glory
Mortal Glory is a fantasy-themed tactical roguelike game about recruiting a team of gladiators and pitting them against brutal competition in a blood-soaked tournament. Train your gladiators, find a legendary sword, learn ancient spells, recruit a celebrity, cheat - do whatever it takes to bring glory to your name!Praetorians - HD Remaster
Relive the celebrated real-time strategy classic Praetorians, re-imagined in high definition. Praetorians is set amidst the political machinations of an emerging Roman Empire.Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception
You awaken in a field of snow with no memory of even your name. The local monstrosities nearly devour you before you meet your rescuer, a beautiful girl named Kuon—who has animal ears and a tail. She names you Haku⸺ The Japanese hit tactics-RPG visual novel series returns to PC at last!Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth
Haku has sacrificed a lot to inherit a mask. With his natural wiles and the reputation of his departed friend, he strikes out on the path to a new future. The curtains rise on an era of strife that will shake Yamato to its very foundations.The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners
Saints & Sinners is a game unlike any other in The Walking Dead universe. Every challenge you face and decision you make is driven by YOU. Fight the undead, scavenge through the flooded ruins of New Orleans, and face gut-wrenching choices for you and the other survivors. Live The Walking Dead.Time Warpers
Time Warpers is the evolution of the popular incremental game Time Clickers. With features like gun customization, optional permadeath & co-op with friends, it combines a first person shooter with the seemingly endless progression & upgrades of a clicker game.ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS XIV
Triumph over the land, take charge of the fate of China! Conquer territories and fly your colors!Mad Tower Tycoon
Design your own skyscraper with more than 100 Floors. Rent offices, apartments or shops and build a financially lucrative skyscraper. Build cinemas, bars or a theater to satisfy your visitors and create an effective transport system with elevators and stairs.Darwin Project
In Darwin Project, ten inmates must survive the elements, track each other, fight, craft tools, and use their social skills to be the last one standing. It's a unique take on battle royale with a Show Director to influence the match and Spectator Interactions to create a one-of-a-kind game show.GemCraft - Frostborn Wrath
The epic tower defense dark fantasy journey continues! Create powerful gems with various abilities and take on the battle against an endlessly flowing army of monsters, and face the growing darkness as you fight your way back towards the Spiritforge.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 19th 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 2,466,311 reviews of which 2,010,666 were positive and 455,645 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 379,977 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 21,674 reviews of which 19,655 were positive and 2,019 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. While seeing 43,697 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 337,250 reviews of which 300,980 were positive and 36,270 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.8 out of 10. While seeing 33,646 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 347,424 reviews of which 301,756 were positive and 45,668 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 24,859 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 207,748 reviews of which 203,531 were positive and 4,217 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.7 out of 10. With 22,530 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played strategy games.6. 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 117,985 reviews of which 85,271 were positive and 32,714 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. With 22,387 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played strategy games.7. 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 159,608 reviews of which 151,527 were positive and 8,081 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 19,966 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played strategy games.8. 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 124,131 reviews of which 112,162 were positive and 11,969 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 17,232 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played strategy games.9. 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 84,921 reviews of which 63,272 were positive and 21,649 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. With 15,264 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played strategy games.10. 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 133,505 reviews of which 115,574 were positive and 17,931 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 out of 10. With 14,535 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 19th 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 12,552 reviews of which 10,077 were positive and 2,475 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 893 reviews of which 630 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 1,148 reviews of which 954 were positive and 194 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. Encased: A Sci-Fi Post-Apocalyptic RPG
A tactical sci-fi RPG set in an alternative 1970's, where an enormous and inexplicable artifact –the Dome– is discovered in a remote desert. Fight enemies, explore the anomalous wasteland, level up your character, join one of the forces in the ruined world. Encased: A Sci-Fi Post-Apocalyptic RPG is a crpg, turn-based combat and strategy game developed by Dark Crystal Games and published by Prime Matter. Released on September 07th 2021 has received 4,513 reviews of which 3,496 were positive and 1,017 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.5 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. EARTHLOCK
Earthlock is an indie developed, adventure RPG inspired by the classic 3D RPGs of the late 90's, with a fresh take on turn based combat and character progression. EARTHLOCK is a rpg, adventure and strategy game developed and published by Snowcastle Games. Released on March 08th 2018 has received 574 reviews of which 419 were positive and 155 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.0 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. 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 868 reviews of which 628 were positive and 240 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for strategy games.7. 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 #7 position in the best deals for strategy games.8. Aces & Adventures
Aces & Adventures is a deckbuilding RPG with poker-powered combat. Craft your deck, combining poker hands with powerful ability cards. Journey through 13 fully-voiced campaigns to save the Life Tree, or tackle procedurally-generated runs in this strategic deckbuilder unlike any other. Aces & Adventures is a deckbuilding, adventure and card game game developed by Triple.B.Titles and published by Yogscast Games. Released on February 23rd 2023 has received 3,065 reviews of which 2,758 were positive and 307 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.6 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. 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 7,687 reviews of which 6,600 were positive and 1,087 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 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. Sairento VR
VR was made for this. Perform triple jumps, wall runs, power slides and slow time down while blasting away at a foe before landing to deliver a blade attack on another. Kit yourself with katanas, firearms, bows, throwing glaives and legendary relics. Keep upgrading as you play. PURE CYBER NINJA FUN. Sairento VR is a action, rpg and indie game developed by Mixed Realms Pte Ltd and Swag Soft Holdings Pte Ltd and published by Mixed Realms Pte Ltd. Released on February 06th 2018 has received 1,702 reviews of which 1,443 were positive and 259 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.1 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 19th 2025. Looking for even more free titles? Use the search filters to explore a wider range of free to play strategy games.