The best turn-based strategies: from classics to novelties

The ultimate guide to the best turn-based strategies: from classics to novelties

What’s up, gamer friends? If there’s one genre that has stood the test of time and keeps getting better, it’s turn-based strategies. Whether it’s the anticipation of each turn, carefully outsmarting your opponent, or crafting the perfect build, turn-based strategy games are pure brain fuel. Today, let’s talk about some of the best loved titles that helped shape the genre and the newest games that are pushing it forward.

These games are an ideal combination of mental challenge, strategic planning, and epic battles—all without kicking up the heart rate like some action-packed shooters. If you haven’t dipped your toes into this world yet, or if you’re a seasoned pro looking to bolster your collection, stick with me. I’ll be breaking down the top turn-based strategy games that range from old-school classics to the latest, freshest titles.

Why turn-based strategy games stand out in the gaming world

But first, why are turn-based strategies so beloved? These games reward patience and have a knack for forcing you to think two, three, even ten steps ahead. Since you’re not in a rush to make split-second decisions, turn-based games allow you to focus on deep strategic thinking. It also levels the playing field, regardless of your reflexes. I’m talking about real, hardcore analysis, decision-making, and replayability.

From military tactics to empire building, there’s always a turn-based strategy game to flex your strategic muscles. So, let’s dive in. Here comes our list of the best turn-based strategy games – a mix of beloved classics and innovative new contenders.

A mix of timeless classics and fresh novelties in the turn-based strategy world

1. XCOM 2 – The ultimate alien squad-based strategy

Let’s start off with XCOM 2. This game takes tactical, squad-based combat and ramps it up to 11. If you haven’t played XCOM 2 yet, you’re missing out. If you loved the original XCOM: Enemy Unknown like I did, then this sequel will feel like a satisfying refresh.

In XCOM 2, Earth has been taken over by aliens, and you lead a guerilla resistance force to free it. You’ll position your units around a battlefield, avoiding enemy fire while securing better combat positions. The game is unforgiving when it comes to mistakes, but that’s where the appeal lies. Strategy, timing, and planning are everything.

What’s different in XCOM 2 compared to older entries is the sense of urgency—renegade, almost hit-and-run tactics come out as more beneficial. Plus, the pressure of losing your soldiers for good (permadeath!) adds an emotional connection I haven’t seen in every turn-based strategy.

Pro tip for XCOM 2:

• Make use of the overwatch tactic. If you position correctly, your soldiers can fire on the enemy during their turn, which can be an absolute game-changer!
• Keep an eye on the concealment mechanic—sneaking around instead of rushing headfirst can save your squad lots of damage.

2. Civilization VI – Building empires turn by turn

No list of turn-based strategies would be complete without the legendary Civilization series, and Civilization VI remains the king of empire-building. This game has you guiding a civilization from the Stone Age all the way to the Space Age, all while managing diplomatic relations, resources, and military strength against rival civilizations.

New to Civ VI are more customizable districts within your cities and complex combat systems. Even the AI is out to get you, so be prepared to defend yourself no matter what alliances you think you’ve built. Personally, there’s no better feeling (or worse betrayal) than watching an ally turn against you, but hey, that’s Civ.

Practical tips for Civ VI:

• Spread your cities wisely. Don’t cluster them too close together, but also don’t expand so far that they become difficult to defend.
• Optimize your districts based on the landscape. Natural resources and tiles play a massive part in amping up your city’s output. Don’t waste opportunities.
• Balance between exploring new techs and military upgrades. Neglecting one for the other could leave you vulnerable.

3. Total War: Warhammer III – Strategy meets chaos

If epic battles and chaotic armies sound like your jam, then Total War: Warhammer III absolutely needs a spot in your gaming library. The Total War series is renowned for its tactical realism and massive battles, and Warhammer III brings all of that plus an amazing fantasy world full of creatures, magic, and larger-than-life units.

You’ve got strategic turn-based gameplay on the world map, but there’s also real-time battles, making it feel grander in scale. These hybrids of turn-based and real-time strategy are where Total War excels, and the Warhammer universe just takes it to the next level.

Quick advice for dominating Warhammer III:

• Take time to pause and issue precise orders during battles. Earning better battlefield positions often means the difference between victory and absolute slaughter.
• Explore your faction’s strengths and don’t stretch yourself too thin. Know where and when to place your armies for the biggest tactical advantage.

4. Into The Breach – Small-scale, huge tactics

On the complete other end of the scale is Into The Breach, which focuses on small, compact engagements. It’s a game of tactical mechs, where every decision matters because each battlefield is only eight by eight tiles. But don’t let this simplicity fool you—there’s a tremendous amount of depth and strategy, especially when you’re weighing up all your possible moves at every turn.

In this sci-fi tactical treat, you’re defending cities from giant alien threats using mechs with customizable weaponry. It’s got a strong puzzle element to it since you need to predict enemy movements many turns in advance.

Tips for success in Into The Breach:

• It’s better to protect as many buildings as possible rather than to chase down every enemy. Remember that buildings provide power, and losing power means losing the game.
• Make sure you’re always thinking ahead in your moves, because sometimes there’s no room for error on such a narrow, small map.

5. Phoenix Point – Alien threat with a twist

Similar to XCOM in its gritty, tactical combat, Phoenix Point takes the struggle against alien invaders in a slightly different direction. Here, you take control of human factions trying to survive a creeping alien mutation that is threatening to engulf the world.

Phoenix Point stands out with its extensive strategic elements outside of combat. Managing your base, scavenging for resources, and negotiating with other human factions all add a major layer of depth not seen in many turn-based titles. Plus, it has a unique aiming system for combat, which lets you target specific enemy limbs for tactical advantages.

Key strategies for Phoenix Point:

• Always have a balanced arsenal—prioritize both short-range and long-range weapons to deal with varying situations.
• Know when to retreat. If a mission is too tough, it might be better to leave and come back better equipped instead of losing valuable soldiers.

The future of turn-based strategies: New gems to watch

Turn-based strategy fans have a lot to look forward to. Here are some newer titles that are making waves:

1. Old World – A fresh take on historical strategy

Old World by Soren Johnson (you might know him as part of the brains behind Civilization IV) adds a new twist to historical strategy. What’s cool about Old World is how it blends turn-based gameplay with mechanics like family dynasties, shifting allegiances, and complex court politics alongside big empire decisions. It feels like a streamlined Civ game, but with a different edge.

2. Humankind – Write your own history

Humankind is another contender in the historical turn-based genre, and it’s quickly making a name for itself. The big hook here is that you don’t just choose a civilization—you continuously evolve your culture as the game progresses, combining aspects from different societies. It’s a fresh take, with sleek graphics and deep tactical options.

Conclusion: Dive into the world of turn-based strategy

Whether you’re debating tactical advantages in XCOM 2, building wonders in Civilization VI, or out-maneuvering giant alien bugs in Into The Breach, there’s no shortage of excellent turn-based options to choose from. Each of these games has its unique hook that adds to the genre’s depth, making today a fantastic time to be a strategist.

If you’re looking for a challenge that doesn’t rely on quick reflexes but instead on outsmarting your opponent, these are the games to beat. And while the classics remain must-plays, the newer games in this list add even more variety for your tactical brain to chew on.

So, what will be your next challenge? Dive into one of these top picks, refine your strategies, and dominate the battlefield (one turn at a time). What’s your favorite turn-based strategy game? Let me know down in the comments below!