Turn-based strategy games on PC offer a unique blend of tactical depth and satisfying, deliberate gameplay. Unlike their real-time counterparts, these games allow players the time to meticulously plan each move, analyze the battlefield, and outmaneuver opponents with calculated precision. If you’re on the hunt for your next strategic obsession, you’ve come to the right place, we’ll explore some of the best turn-based PC strategy games available, each offering its own unique flavour of strategic challenges.
Why Turn-Based Strategy Games Still Reign Supreme
In a world dominated by fast-paced action titles, turn-based strategy games hold a special allure. They provide a welcome change of pace, encouraging thoughtful decision-making and rewarding patience. Here’s why they remain so popular:
- Strategic Depth: The core appeal lies in the layers of strategy involved. You’re not just reacting to the moment; you’re planning several turns ahead, considering your resources, positioning, and the potential actions of your opponent.
- Accessibility: While some can get incredibly complex, many turn-based strategy games are easy to learn, making them a great choice for new strategy fans. The pace is forgiving and allows you to learn at your own speed.
- Rewarding Gameplay: The feeling of outwitting an opponent with a well-executed strategy is incredibly satisfying. It’s a different kind of thrill compared to reflex-based games.
- Variety: The genre is incredibly diverse, ranging from historical warfare simulations to fantasy epics and sci-fi adventures.
- Time to Reflect: Turn-based games provide a comfortable pace where players can sit back, think, plan, and then execute a strategy without any pressure. You can easily pause and get back to the game anytime you want.
Top Tier Turn-Based Strategy Games on PC
Now let’s delve into the best turn-based strategy games you can play on PC today:
Civilization VI: The Benchmark of Grand Strategy
Civilization VI stands as a giant in the turn-based strategy genre. It allows you to guide a civilization from its humble beginnings to a modern-day superpower, making crucial decisions in everything from technological development to diplomatic relations. The game offers:
- Deep Gameplay Mechanics: Complex systems like city building, technology trees, and social policies provide endless strategic options.
- Historical Immersion: Play as one of many real-world civilizations, each with unique advantages and historical units.
- Multiple Paths to Victory: Win through military conquest, scientific advancement, cultural dominance, or religious conversion.
- Modding Community: A vibrant community ensures constant access to new content.
“Civilization VI’s complexity and scope offer a uniquely rewarding gameplay experience,” states Dr. Eleanor Vance, a gaming historian. “The feeling of building a civilization and seeing it thrive across millennia is truly unmatched.”
XCOM 2: Tactical Squad Battles at Their Finest
XCOM 2 plunges you into a desperate fight against an alien occupation. You control a squad of soldiers, engaging in tactical turn-based combat where every decision could mean life or death for your troops. It excels in:
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Challenging Gameplay: The game punishes mistakes and requires meticulous planning and resource management.
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Deep Customization: Players can personalize their soldiers with different abilities, weapons, and equipment.
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High Stakes Combat: Permadeath for your soldiers creates a sense of tension and attachment to your troops.
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Compelling Narrative: The story of a human resistance fighting against overwhelming odds adds an engaging layer to the game.
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If you enjoy the tactical aspects of XCOM 2, you might also want to explore other turn based strategy games online.
Total War: Warhammer III: Epic Battles and Fantasy Lore
Total War: Warhammer III combines the grand campaign strategy of the Total War series with the rich fantasy setting of Warhammer. This offers:
- Massive Scale Battles: Command huge armies on the battlefield with a wide array of fantasy units.
- Diverse Factions: Play as numerous races from the Warhammer universe, each with unique units, mechanics, and objectives.
- Campaign Depth: Manage your empire, forge alliances, and research technologies on a massive campaign map.
- Intricate Lore: The game faithfully recreates the intricate lore of the Warhammer world.
“The combination of grand strategy and intense tactical battles in Total War: Warhammer III is a thrill for both series veterans and newcomers alike,” says James Harding, a veteran strategy game reviewer.
Divinity: Original Sin 2: RPG Turn-Based Combat Done Right
Divinity: Original Sin 2 is a masterclass in role-playing and turn-based combat. Its open-ended gameplay and deep tactical system makes it a must-play. This game features:
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Freedom of Choice: Your decisions have a tangible impact on the world and the story.
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Engaging Combat System: Creative use of elemental interactions, positioning, and abilities provides endless tactical possibilities.
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Character Customization: Create a unique protagonist and assemble a party from a memorable cast of characters.
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Rich Storytelling: A deeply engaging narrative and a world brimming with lore.
For those who love the fantasy element of Total War: Warhammer III, there are many great space strategy games that offer a similar experience in a different setting.
Humankind: A New Take on the Civilization Formula
Humankind, from Amplitude Studios, offers a fresh take on the classic 4X strategy genre. Its standout feature is the ability to evolve your civilization by adopting cultural traits throughout history. Key aspects include:
- Dynamic Civilization Development: Shape your culture by transitioning through historical eras and choosing new civics, giving your civilization its identity.
- Strategic Combat: Engage in turn-based tactical battles that are decisive for your empire.
- Multiple Victory Conditions: Pursue different paths such as cultural, economic, and scientific dominance.
- Innovative Ideas: Combines elements from various strategy games to offer a unique gameplay experience.
Choosing Your Next Strategic Adventure
Choosing the “best” game is subjective and depends on your preferences. Here’s a quick guide:
Are you looking for…
- Grand, historical strategy? Go for Civilization VI.
- Tactical, squad-based combat? XCOM 2 is your best bet.
- Epic fantasy battles? Total War: Warhammer III will scratch that itch.
- Role-playing and turn-based combat? Divinity: Original Sin 2 is the perfect choice
- A unique twist on 4X strategy? Try Humankind.
Table: Comparing Top Turn-Based Strategy Games
| Feature | Civilization VI | XCOM 2 | Total War: Warhammer III | Divinity: Original Sin 2 | Humankind |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gameplay Focus | Grand Strategy, Civ Management | Tactical Squad Combat, Resistance | Grand Strategy, Large-Scale Battles | RPG, Tactical Combat, Player Choice | Dynamic Civilization, 4X Gameplay |
| Combat System | Turn-Based, Army Management | Turn-Based, Squad Tactics | Turn-Based Battles with real time units | Turn-Based, Elemental Interactions | Turn-Based with terrain elements |
| Setting | Historical | Sci-Fi, Alien Invasion | Fantasy | Fantasy | Historical with a twist |
| Difficulty | Adjustable | Challenging | Moderate to Complex | Moderate to Complex | Moderate |
| Customization | Civilization, Leaders, Policies | Soldier Classes, Abilities, Equipment | Faction Variety | Characters, Abilities, Equipment | Civilizational development |
| Replayability | High due to various civilisations | High due to customization and difficulty | High due to factions and strategies | High due to player choices and exploration | High due to cultures and choices |
| Story/Narrative | Open ended, based on choices. | Focused story of Resistance. | Strong Lore from Warhammer Universe | Rich story, player choices shape it. | Emergent narrative, based on player actions |
Expanding Your Strategic Horizons
The world of turn-based strategy games is vast and ever-evolving. Each of the above provides a unique experience, but there are other great games out there. Always remember to check community reviews, and see what other people are saying and experiencing about these games as well. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.
“Don’t just stick to what’s popular,” advises David Chen, a long-time strategy game enthusiast. “The beauty of the genre is the constant emergence of new and innovative gameplay ideas.”
Conclusion
Turn-based PC strategy games offer a unique, engaging, and often incredibly rewarding experience. Whether you’re a veteran strategist or a newcomer, there’s a game out there that will captivate you. Games like Civilization VI, XCOM 2, Total War: Warhammer III, Divinity: Original Sin 2, and Humankind represent just a small portion of what this rich genre has to offer. Now go forth, plan your moves, and conquer new worlds!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between turn-based and real-time strategy games?
Turn-based games allow you to make moves in sequence, giving you ample time to plan each action and assess the situation, while real-time strategy games require you to react on the fly and make quick decisions simultaneously.
Which turn-based strategy game is easiest for beginners?
Civilization VI is often recommended for beginners due to its easy-to-grasp basic mechanics. However, it has a lot of depth to discover.
Are there any multiplayer turn-based strategy games?
Yes! Most of the games mentioned offer multiplayer modes. Some, like Civilization VI, have robust online competitive multiplayer scenes.
Are turn-based strategy games suitable for casual gamers?
Absolutely. Many turn-based games allow you to play at your own pace, offering a relaxed and strategic experience.
How important is micromanagement in turn-based strategy games?
Micromanagement is often important, depending on the game. In games like XCOM 2, managing your squad and resources is critical, whereas others, like Civilization, focus more on broader strategies.
Where can I find more new turn based strategy game reviews?
We would suggest you to follow reliable sources such as gaming websites, YouTube gaming channels and Steam forums and always consider trying demos and free trials first to make an informed decision.
Is XCOM 2 difficult?
XCOM 2 is known for being quite challenging, punishing mistakes and requiring careful planning. However, the difficulty settings can be adjusted.
Other Related Content
If you’re interested in similar gaming experiences, you might find these articles helpful: strategy games on xbox and turn based strategy games android.
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