Best Turn-Based 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 turn-based strategy games. For those who prefer not to search, lists of the most played, top deals and best free turn-based strategy games are available at the bottom of the page.
Filters & Lists
The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky
Hailed as one of the largest, longest and most meticulously detailed turn-based JRPG series of all time, this first chapter in the ongoing Trails saga sets the stage for what's quickly become Ys developer Nihon Falcom's most popular and best-selling franchise in their entire 30+ year history.
Sunrider: Mask of Arcadius
As Captain Kayto Shields, embark on a galactic voyage of heroism and survival. With his home world destroyed and his nation conquered, the inexperienced Captain Shields, and his newly minted vessel, the Sunrider, are left as the only hope against a galactic evil intent on subjugating all sentient life.
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.
Xenonauts
Xenonauts is a strategy game in which you control a multi-national military organisation defending a Cold War-era Earth from alien invasion, using small squads of persistent soldiers to eliminate the extraterrestrials and recover their technology in turn-based ground combat.
Close Combat - Gateway to Caen
Close Combat: Gateway to Caen is a great release in the critically-acclaimed Close Combat series. Gateway to Caen focuses on the largest, concentrated British offensive since the Normandy landings in an attempt to penetrate the German lines west of Caen and cross the Odon River to get the stalled advance moving again.
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.
Final Fantasy III (3D Remake)
FINAL FANTASY® III, one of the best-loved games from the epic RPG series, available on Steam.
Toribash
Toribash is an innovative free-to-play online turn-based fighting game where you’re able to design your own moves. Complete control over character's body, hundreds of game mods and bloody mess with full body dismemberment - you've never been able to annihilate your enemies like that before!
Child of Light
Aurora, a young girl from 1895 Austria, awakens on the lost fairytale continent of Lemuria. To return home she must fight against the dark creatures of the Queen of the Night, who have stolen the sun, the moon and the stars. At stake is not only Lemuria, but Aurora’s true destiny.
Jagged Alliance 1: Gold Edition
Experience a true classic! This Gold edition includes the original Jagged Alliance plus the add-on Jagged Alliance: Deadly Games. Take a trip into retro land and learn why this is considered to be one the best turn-based games of all times.
Ascension to the Throne
Ascension to the Throne is a turn-based strategy game with RPG elements. In a vast fantasy world the hero will have to pass many tests on his way to victory. Enemies seek to stop players from regaining power and taking revenge. Gain new friends to aid you in reclaiming the throne.
UFO: Aftermath
UFO: Aftermath is a 3D isometric, tactical strategy game with a rich and compelling sci fi story.
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.
Agarest: Generations of War Zero
From the void, the gods of darkness and light created Agarest, a most perfect and divine world. As the generations passed, paradise sadly fell to the ravages of time. War darkened the skies and Agarest soon became a torturous hell as the gods divided and immense armies clashed, desecrating the once beautiful land…
Battle Academy
A turn-based strategy game like no other has landed on Steam. Approachable, absorbing and visually impressive yet detailed, Battle Academy aims to revolutionise the strategy games market with a blend of intuitive design and compelling gameplay.
Imperial Glory
It is a time of war in Europe. Driven by new ideas of Enlightenment, the hearts of men and women across the continent are inflamed with dreams of freedom and glory. This is the moment for a military genius to forge himself a name to be remembered throughout all eternity. This is your moment.
Warlock 2: The Exiled
Warlock 2 is a turn-based strategy game of fantasy warfare. Rival against Great Mages, lead mighty armies into fierce battles, wield ancient magic and faith as your weapons.
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!
Breach & Clear
Breach & Clear brings deep tactical strategy simulation to PC, Mac and Linux! Build your Special Operations team, plan and execute advanced missions, and own every angle.Choose your real-world squad -- US Army Rangers, Germany's KSK, Canada’s JTF2, UK SAS, and more -- and take on a variety of foes with different skill-sets and...
Panzer Corps Gold
The ultimate edition of Panzer Corps, containing hundreds of scenarios and all its expansions. Panzer Corps Gold is the culmination of the wargame that has enthralled millions of fans all around the globe, and now it’s your chance to fully experience a real classic.Most played turn-based strategy games on Steam
Take a look at the top turn-based strategy games that are currently attracting the largest player bases on the Steam platform, as of April 19th 2025.
1. 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. The game has hit the top spot as the #1 most played turn-based strategy game, thanks to its 24,859 peak concurrent players over the last day.
8.6
301,756
45,668
24,859
players
2. 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. While seeing 22,387 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #2 among turn-based strategy games based on player count.
7.2
85,271
32,714
22,387
players
3. 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 203,484 reviews of which 194,977 were positive and 8,507 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. While seeing 14,375 players online at once in the last 24 hours, this game is currently ranked #3 among turn-based strategy games based on player count.
9.5
194,977
8,507
14,375
players
4. Summoners War
A global hit RPG that captured the Summoners all around the world! Jump into the Sky Arena, a world under battle over the vital resource: Mana Crystals. Design your own deck and strategy using 1,000 Monsters to claim victory. Go on an epic adventure with your Monsters! Summoners War is a free to play, rpg and strategy game developed and published by Com2uS. Released on January 07th 2024 has received 8,285 reviews of which 5,858 were positive and 2,427 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. With 11,421 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #4 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
6.9
5,858
2,427
11,421
players
5. Total War: ROME II - Emperor Edition
Emperor Edition is the definitive edition of ROME II, featuring an improved politics system, overhauled building chains, rebalanced battles and improved visuals in both campaign and battleEmperor Edition contains all free feature updates since its release in 2013, which includes bug fixes, balancing, Twitch. Total War: ROME II - Emperor Edition is a strategy, historical and turn-based strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and published by SEGA. Released on September 02nd 2013 has received 87,437 reviews of which 72,882 were positive and 14,555 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. With 4,747 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #5 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
8.2
72,882
14,555
4,747
players
6. Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Definitive Edition
The critically acclaimed RPG that raised the bar, from the creators of Baldur's Gate 3. Gather your party. Master deep, tactical combat. Venture as a party of up to four - but know that only one of you will have the chance to become a God. Divinity: Original Sin 2 - Definitive Edition is a tactical rpg, rpg and turn-based strategy game developed and published by Larian Studios. Released on September 14th 2017 has received 188,919 reviews of which 181,042 were positive and 7,877 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.5 out of 10. With 3,393 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #6 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
9.5
181,042
7,877
3,393
players
7. Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition
Spanning the most turbulent era in Western history, your quest for territory and power takes you through Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and even onto the shores of the New World. Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition is a strategy, medieval and historical game developed by Creative Assembly and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and SEGA. Released on November 15th 2006 has received 32,998 reviews of which 31,584 were positive and 1,414 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.4 out of 10. With 3,357 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
9.4
31,584
1,414
3,357
players
8. Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition
Command the seas, control the land, forge a new nation, and conquer the globe. Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition is a strategy, historical and military game developed by Creative Assembly and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and SEGA. Released on March 04th 2009 has received 35,137 reviews of which 31,892 were positive and 3,245 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 2,428 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
8.9
31,892
3,245
2,428
players
9. Total War: SHOGUN 2
Total War: SHOGUN 2 is the perfect mix of real-time and turn-based strategy gaming for newcomers and veterans alike. Total War: SHOGUN 2 is a strategy, historical and turn-based strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and SEGA. Released on March 14th 2011 has received 24,952 reviews of which 22,620 were positive and 2,332 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.9 out of 10. With 2,296 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
8.9
22,620
2,332
2,296
players
10. Total War: THREE KINGDOMS
Total War: THREE KINGDOMS is the first in the award-winning series to recreate epic conflict across ancient China. Combining a gripping turn-based campaign of empire-building & conquest with stunning real-time battles, THREE KINGDOMS redefines the series in an age of heroes & legends. Total War: THREE KINGDOMS is a strategy, historical and war game developed by Creative Assembly and Feral Interactive (Linux) and published by Feral interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux) and SEGA. Released on May 23rd 2019 has received 103,228 reviews of which 74,512 were positive and 28,716 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.2 out of 10. With 2,285 concurrent players in the last 24 hours, the game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played turn-based strategy games.
7.2
74,512
28,716
2,285
players
Best deals on turn-based strategy games on Steam
Discover fantastic savings with the best discounts on a variety of turn-based 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 turn-based 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 turn-based strategy category.
7.9
10,077
2,475
-97%
33.33€
1.00€
2. Inkulinati
Inkulinati is a turn-based strategy game straight from medieval manuscripts, where a rabbit’s bum can be deadlier than a dog's sword. Become a master of the Living Ink, build your own bestiary, defeat medieval superstars and collect perks to unleash hidden powers. Inkulinati is a medieval, turn-based strategy and turn-based tactics game developed by Yaza Games and published by Daedalic Entertainment. Released on February 22nd 2024 has received 886 reviews of which 776 were positive and 110 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.3 out of 10. Thanks to its incredible 96% discount, this game is now the #2 best deal in turn-based strategy games.
8.3
776
110
-96%
25.00€
1.00€
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 turn-based strategy games.
7.9
954
194
-96%
30.00€
1.20€
4. Miasma Chronicles
From the creators of Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden comes a beautifully crafted tactical adventure you won’t forget. Embark on a quest across a post-apocalyptic wasteland torn apart by a savage force known only as the ‘Miasma’. Miasma Chronicles is a tactical rpg, turn-based strategy and tactical game developed by The Bearded Ladies and published by 505 Games Official. Released on May 23rd 2023 has received 2,241 reviews of which 1,782 were positive and 459 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.7 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 96% discount, this title has earned the #4 position in the best deals for turn-based strategy games.
7.7
1,782
459
-96%
33.50€
1.34€
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 turn-based strategy games.
6.9
695
281
-96%
25.00€
1.00€
6. Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga
Enter Tahnra, a land savaged by war. You, a fresh academy graduate with humble beginnings, will grow to lead a grand army against a corrupt adversary. Gather heroes, form bonds, and lead your force in turn-based battles. Make use of tactics, terrain, morale and more to bring peace to the land! Symphony of War: The Nephilim Saga is a tactical rpg, rpg and story rich game developed by Dancing Dragon Games and published by indie.io. Released on June 10th 2022 has received 12,707 reviews of which 12,026 were positive and 681 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.2 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #6 position in the best deals for turn-based strategy games.
9.2
12,026
681
-95%
20.00€
1.00€
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 14,157 reviews of which 11,503 were positive and 2,654 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 turn-based strategy games.
8.0
11,503
2,654
-95%
42.80€
2.14€
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 4,485 reviews of which 3,679 were positive and 806 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 turn-based strategy games.
8.0
3,679
806
-95%
39.80€
1.99€
9. Dark Deity
Step into the world of Terrazael and lead soon-to-be legendary heroes in a quest to restore a land fractured by broken oaths, reckless wars, and untamed magic. Fight back in turn-based battles, manage character relationships, collect dangerous artifacts, and hopefully restore the world... Dark Deity is a turn-based tactics, tactical rpg and turn-based strategy game developed by Sword & Axe LLC and published by indie.io. Released on June 15th 2021 has received 2,666 reviews of which 1,939 were positive and 727 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.1 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 95% discount, this title has earned the #9 position in the best deals for turn-based strategy games.
7.1
1,939
727
-95%
24.00€
1.20€
10. Ozymandias: Bronze Age Empire Sim
Build an empire in a single sitting. All the strategy of a classic 4X in a faster format, which also shines in multiplayer. Ozymandias: Bronze Age Empire Sim is a grand strategy, turn-based strategy and 4x game developed by The Secret Games Company and published by Goblinz Publishing and IndieArk. Released on October 11th 2022 has received 1,508 reviews of which 1,325 were positive and 183 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Currently offered at a significant 93% discount, this title has earned the #10 position in the best deals for turn-based strategy games.
8.4
1,325
183
-93%
14.29€
1.00€
Free turn-based strategy games on Steam
Check out this fantastic list of free-to-play turn-based 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 turn-based strategy games.
1. Summoners War
A global hit RPG that captured the Summoners all around the world! Jump into the Sky Arena, a world under battle over the vital resource: Mana Crystals. Design your own deck and strategy using 1,000 Monsters to claim victory. Go on an epic adventure with your Monsters! Summoners War is a free to play, rpg and strategy game developed and published by Com2uS. Released on January 07th 2024 has received 8,285 reviews of which 5,858 were positive and 2,427 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. With 11,421 active players enjoying it for free, this strategy game has reached the #1 spot among the top free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
6.9
5,858
2,427
11,421
players
2. Alpha League HD
Alpha League HD is a free-to-play, hero based Autobattler. In Alpha League, simply pick and build your favorite hero in a Roguelike fashion with 12 different combat genres, and then battle the other 7 Bots or Players to be the winner. Alpha League HD is a auto battler, turn-based strategy and casual game developed and published by Beaveroid Entertainment. Released on February 14th 2025 has received 850 reviews of which 785 were positive and 65 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.7 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 1,412, this turn-based strategy game has secured the #2 spot in the ranking of free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
8.7
785
65
1,412
players
3. GIRLS' FRONTLINE 2: EXILIUM
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 1,236 reviews of which 848 were positive and 388 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.6 out of 10. Thanks to its free to play tag and a daily player base of 628, this turn-based strategy game has secured the #3 spot in the ranking of free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
6.6
848
388
628
players
4. WAKFU
Immerse yourself in the WAKFU universe with this free to play MMORPG. Select your class, travel the world, meet adventurers to challenge powerful monsters in epic turn-based battles.Participate in the kingdom’s economy and politics and create your own legend! WAKFU is a free to play, massively multiplayer and turn-based strategy game developed by Ankama Studio and published by Ankama Games. Released on September 18th 2014 has received 10,192 reviews of which 7,700 were positive and 2,492 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.4 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 248 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #4 position in the best free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
7.4
7,700
2,492
248
players
5. SOVL: Fantasy Warfare
SOVL is a ruleset for playing fantasy wargames. It can be played with miniatures on a table or digitally on Steam. SOVL: Fantasy Warfare is a strategy, wargame and tabletop game developed and published by Dalen Studios. Released on June 29th 2023 has received 1,950 reviews of which 1,717 were positive and 233 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.4 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 196 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #5 position in the best free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
8.4
1,717
233
196
players
6. Battle for Wesnoth
The Battle for Wesnoth is an open source, turn-based strategy game with a high fantasy theme. Explore the four corners of Irdya in seventeen solo campaigns and dozens of multiplayer maps, taking part in countless adventures as you go. Battle for Wesnoth is a free to play, strategy and turn-based strategy game developed by The Battle for Wesnoth Project and published by Wesnoth Inc.. Released on May 01st 2018 has received 5,273 reviews of which 4,960 were positive and 313 were negative resulting in an impressive rating of 9.1 out of 10. Attracting a solid base of 154 players due to its free access, this strategy game has achieved the #6 position in the best free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
9.1
4,960
313
154
players
7. 修真大陆
A casual hang-up class repair fairy game 修真大陆 is a rpg, turn-based strategy and 2d platformer game developed and published by 北冥. Released on April 18th 2024 has received 378 reviews of which 275 were positive and 103 were negative resulting in a rating of 6.9 out of 10. The game currently holds the #7 spot among the most played free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
6.9
275
103
63
players
8. Arcanists
Players take turns in a race against the clock, utilising an array of spells to defeat their opponents in battle! Victory is accomplished by becoming the 'last man standing' (or last team) after all other players have been reduced to zero hitpoints. Arcanists is a free to play, strategy and multiplayer game developed and published by pur3 extreme. Released on July 15th 2024 has received 541 reviews of which 477 were positive and 64 were negative resulting in a rating of 8.2 out of 10. The game currently holds the #8 spot among the most played free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
8.2
477
64
58
players
9. Pox Nora
Delve into classic turn-based strategy gaming with elements of table top miniatures, fantasy RPG and TCG style gameplay all wrapped into one. Pox Nora is a free to play, strategy and rpg game developed and published by Desert Owl Games LLC. Released on October 15th 2014 has received 848 reviews of which 646 were positive and 202 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.3 out of 10. The game currently holds the #9 spot among the most played free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
7.3
646
202
50
players
10. Age of Conquest IV
Age of Conquest is a turn-based grand strategy wargame. Age of Conquest IV is a free to play, strategy and turn-based strategy game developed and published by Noble Master LLC. Released on April 05th 2016 has received 2,741 reviews of which 2,236 were positive and 505 were negative resulting in a rating of 7.9 out of 10. The game currently holds the #10 spot among the most played free turn-based strategy games on Steam.
7.9
2,236
505
16
players