- #1 Hearts of Iron IV
97% matchVery Positive90% of 360,411 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30.8 hrsMean: 292.9 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.5% ★, World War II 22.4% ★, Alternate History 12.1%, Diplomacy 11.6% ★, War 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: It is the definitive grand strategy experience for those who enjoy the military and geopolitical complexity of global warfare.
- #2 Europa Universalis IV
96% matchVery Positive88% of 135,916 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 279.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 24% ★, Diplomacy 21.1% ★, Wargame 16.5%, Alternate History 13.8%, Economy 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a deep, historical grand strategy experience that mirrors the long-term nation-building focus of the seed game.
- #3 Victoria 3
96% matchMostly Positive71% of 58,205 reviews2022
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 15.1 hrsMean: 114.1 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Paradox Development Studio invites you to build your ideal society in the tumult of the exciting and transformative 19th century. Balance the competing interests in your society and earn your place in the sun in Victoria 3, one of the most anticipated games in Paradox’s history.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 31.1% ★, Diplomacy 24.6% ★, Economy 14.6%, Alternate History 13.7%, Moddable 9.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: It provides a sophisticated economic and political simulation that complements the nation-management aspects of the seed game.
- #4 Age of History II
95% matchVery Positive90% of 49,233 reviews2018
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows
Median: 12.2 hrsMean: 61.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Age of History II is a grand strategy wargame that is simple to learn yet hard to master.Your objective is to use military tactics and cunning diplomacy to either unify the world, or conquer it.Will the world bleed out or bow before you? The choice is yours..
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.3% ★, Diplomacy 15.2% ★, World War I 14.3% ★, World War II 12.7% ★, War 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: As the direct predecessor, it shares the same core map-based conquest mechanics and accessible interface.
- #5 Crusader Kings III
94% matchVery Positive91% of 137,655 reviews2020
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 28.8 hrsMean: 143.8 hrs≥1hr: 94%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 34.8% ★, RTS 13.4%, Medieval 12.2%, Moddable 10.2% ★, Economy 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game adds a layer of character-driven drama to the grand strategy formula, focusing on the internal politics of ruling a dynasty.
- #6 Ages of Conflict: World War Simulator
94% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 7,398 reviews2023
Dev: JoySpark Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Ages of Conflict is a versatile Map Simulation game where you create and observe custom AI nations battle it out across an infinite number of worlds. Paint beautiful maps and scenarios, and command nations to change history into your liking!
Why similar: Diplomacy 24% ★, Wargame 21.9%, Alternate History 19%, World War II 16.5% ★, Level Editor 12.6%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a similar sandbox-style map simulation where you can observe and influence the rise and fall of nations.
- #7 Old World
93% matchVery Positive82% of 6,135 reviews2022
Dev: Mohawk GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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?
Why similar: Diplomacy 22.7% ★, Grand Strategy 22.6% ★, Alternate History 12.9%, Economy 10.1%, Moddable 10% ★
Why You'll Like It: It blends 4x strategy with character-based storytelling, focusing on the development of ancient civilizations.
- #8 Terra Invicta
91% matchVery Positive81% of 9,023 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 51.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
An alien invasion has fractured humanity into seven ideological factions each with a unique vision for the future. Lead your chosen faction to take control of Earth’s nations, expand across the Solar System, and battle enemy fleets in tactical combat.
Why similar: Diplomacy 20.3% ★, Grand Strategy 19.7% ★, Alternate History 12.5%, Economy 9.8%, RTS 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: It provides an incredibly deep geopolitical simulation that challenges players to manage global factions during an alien invasion.
- #9 Supreme Ruler Ultimate
92% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,248 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.4 hrsMean: 50.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Real-Time Strategy/Wargame. From World War II through the Cold War and into the future, re-live or re-imagine the tensions and crises of our recent history! Guide your nation through the era of your choice in Campaigns, Scenarios, and Sandboxes, as you make every effort to become Supreme Ruler!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20% ★, Wargame 15.8%, World War II 12.4% ★, RTS 11.8%, World War I 10.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: It provides a detailed, real-time geopolitical simulation that covers a massive range of historical and modern eras.
- #10 Imperator: Rome
91% matchMixed65% of 26,771 reviews2019
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 37.3 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Dominate the classical Mediterranean in Imperator: Rome, a grand strategy game from Paradox Interactive. Navigate the dangerous waters of politics and diplomacy as you build up your provinces and conquer foreign lands. Now available with special content and the digital artbook.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 60.9% ★, Strategy 16.6%, Economy 9.7%, War 5.8%, Moddable 3.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: This grand strategy game focuses on the intricacies of the ancient world, including population management and political maneuvering.
- #11 Stellaris
90% matchVery Positive86% of 191,915 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.5 hrsMean: 142.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 51.5% ★, Diplomacy 24.3% ★, Moddable 12.3% ★, Strategy 11.1%, Singleplayer 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: This game brings the grand strategy experience to a galactic scale, focusing on exploration, diplomacy, and empire management.
- #12 Rebel Inc: Escalation
89% matchVery Positive82% of 7,070 reviews2021
Dev: Ndemic CreationsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 13.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
A unique and deeply engaging political/military strategic simulation from the creator of Plague Inc. Balance competing civilian and military priorities and deal with a deadly insurgency in order to stabilise a war-torn country.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.3% ★, Diplomacy 18.9% ★, World War II 16% ★, Alternate History 13.9%, RTS 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: This game focuses on the complexities of regional stability and counter-insurgency, offering a unique perspective on nation-building.
- #13 Shadow Empire
89% matchVery Positive85% of 1,723 reviews2020
Dev: VR DesignsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 63.2 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Shadow Empire is a deep turn-based 4X wargame with a unique blend of military focus, procedurally generated content and role-playing features. Players take the seat of the supreme ruler of a small nation, with the goal of reconquering a devastated planet.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 34.5% ★, Wargame 31.1%, War 14%, Tactical 11.1%, Strategy 8%
Why You'll Like It: This title offers a complex, procedural wargame experience that emphasizes logistics and the challenges of governing a post-apocalyptic civilization.
- #14 Millennia
87% matchMixed67% of 3,746 reviews2024
Dev: C Prompt GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 14.3 hrsMean: 34.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Create your own nation in Millennia, a historical turn-based 4X game that challenges your strategic prowess across 10,000 years of history, from the dawn of humanity to our possible futures.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.9% ★, Diplomacy 22.9% ★, Alternate History 17.4%, Economy 11.4%, War 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: This 4x strategy game allows players to guide their nation through thousands of years of history with unique branching timelines.
- #15 Realpolitiks II
88% matchMixed46% of 666 reviews2021
Dev: Jujubee S.A.Pub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Lead your people to glory and write a new chapter of history in Realpolitiks II, a real-time grand strategy game where you lead any contemporary nation in an attempt to secure world dominance.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 65.9% ★, Strategy 24.1%, Tactical 4.7%, Realistic 4.6%, Singleplayer 0.6%
Why You'll Like It: This modern geopolitical simulator allows you to manage a contemporary nation through diplomacy, espionage, and economic policy.
- #16 Victoria II
86% matchVery Positive92% of 19,875 reviews2010
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 48.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Carefully guide your nation from the era of absolute monarchies in the early 19th century, through expansion and colonization, to finally become a truly great power by the dawn of the 20th century. Victoria II is a grand strategy game played during the colonial era of the 19th century, where the player takes control of a country, guiding...
Why similar: Grand Strategy 37.2% ★, World War I 16% ★, Economy 10.3%, Diplomacy 9% ★, Strategy 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a complex economic and political simulation that remains a benchmark for depth in the grand strategy genre.
- #17 Fantasy Map Simulator
84% matchVery Positive89% of 3,843 reviews2024
Dev: The Stranger
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 8.6 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Fantasy Map Simulator: Create and watch imaginary worlds evolve over centuries. Design maps, simulate nations and their politics, and control destinies. See empires rise and fall on your desktop wallpaper. A unique simulation for history buffs and creative minds.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.8% ★, Alternate History 20.1%, Wargame 16.6%, Level Editor 12.2%, War 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: This sandbox simulation allows players to create and manage their own fictional worlds with a focus on historical progression.
- #18 Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
85% matchVery Positive95% of 15,511 reviews2014
Dev: SkyBox LabsPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 18.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Rise of Nations is back! Play the updated classic with full Steamworks integration and enhanced features!
Why similar: RTS 56.7%, Strategy 25.9%, War 14.5%, Building 2%, Singleplayer 0.9%
Why You'll Like It: It perfectly balances real-time strategy with grand strategy elements, allowing players to progress through multiple historical ages.
- #19 Warnament
83% matchVery Positive87% of 367 reviews2025
Dev: Luden.io
Windows · Mac · Linux
A turn-based grand strategy game, simple for newbies yet challenging for masters. As the leader of a nation, you will conquer territories and advance in military, technology, culture, or politics. Choose from historical scenarios or create your own with an editor.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 23.2% ★, World War I 21.4% ★, Diplomacy 18.5% ★, Level Editor 11%, Economy 10%
Why You'll Like It: It is a sandbox-focused wargame that allows for high levels of customization and map-based strategic warfare.
- #20 Making History: The Great War
86% matchMostly Positive76% of 453 reviews2015
Dev: Muzzy Lane SoftwarePub: Factus Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 94%
The Great War is a turn-based grand strategy game based on the epic struggles of the WWI era. Experience the battles of attrition and punishing artillery barrages. Play as any nation of the period as the modern world of industrialized warfare replaces an age of kings with a struggle of ideologies.
Why similar: World War I 31.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.1% ★, World War II 11.6% ★, Alternate History 8.8%, Moddable 8.5% ★
Why You'll Like It: It provides a focused grand strategy experience centered on the complexities of World War we.
- #21 Darkest Hour: A Hearts of Iron Game
82% matchVery Positive90% of 2,069 reviews2011
Dev: Martin IvanovPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 27.0 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Developed by a team of experienced modders from the Paradox forum, Darkest Hour is a stand-alone Hearts of Iron game. The game features a mixture of short and in-depth campaigns set across the darkest chapters of the 20th century. Play from the outbreak of the Great War up until the onset of the Cold War.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.5% ★, World War II 21.2% ★, World War I 20.9% ★, Wargame 11.6%, Strategy 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: It remains a cult classic for its deep, historical simulation of the early 20th-century global conflicts.
- #22 Supremacy: 1914
82% matchMostly Positive74% of 4,236 reviews2019
Dev: Bytro Labs GmbH
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 41.0 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Take over the control of one of the mighty nations during the times of World War 1 in the biggest WW1 strategy game of all time. Conquer provinces, forge alliances and build up your economy in real-time on persistent maps. Build experimental weapons of World War 1 and become the one true superpower!
Why similar: World War I 26% ★, Grand Strategy 18% ★, Diplomacy 13.6% ★, Wargame 10.2%, War 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: This real-time strategy game focuses on the tactical and diplomatic challenges of the First World War on a global map.
- #23 Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition
81% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 35,447 reviews2006
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 36.6 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 28.4% ★, Medieval 15.9%, RTS 15.6%, Strategy 13.4%, War 10.8%
Why You'll Like It: It combines a turn-based grand strategy campaign map with real-time tactical battles for a more hands-on military experience.
- #24 Doodle Empires
78% matchVery Positive92% of 982 reviews2025
Dev: Turtle Stack Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Doodle Empires is an alternate history sandbox game all about drawing your own nations with your own histories and stories in a variety of maps. Watch your world take shape and evolve over time, and decide which nations will rise and which nations will fall.
Why similar: Alternate History 44.6%, Wargame 29.1%, Strategy 14.2%, Medieval 7.6%, 2D 3.4%
Why You'll Like It: This simple yet engaging simulation focuses on the rise of civilizations through map-based expansion and basic resource management.
- #25 World Warfare & Economics
80% matchMixed63% of 666 reviews2023
Dev: Okron Studio
Windows · Mac
Take control of any nation and shape its future. Manage resources, trade, and taxes, engage in real-time warfare, navigate global diplomacy, and react to dynamic world events. Build a thriving economy, forge alliances, and command armies in a constantly evolving world!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 26.8% ★, Diplomacy 23.5% ★, RTS 15.7%, Economy 11.8%, War 9%
Why You'll Like It: This title focuses on the intersection of modern military conflict and global economic management.
- #26 Espiocracy
81% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Ex Vivo StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Espiocracy is an espionage grand strategy game where you lead the intelligence agency of one of 74 playable countries. Rewrite history from the shadows as you influence ideologies, stage coups, and wage proxy wars. Subterfuge takes center stage as you establish a new world order.
Why similar: Diplomacy 19.9% ★, Grand Strategy 19.5% ★, World War II 16.2% ★, Alternate History 13.6%, RTS 11.4%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on the covert side of grand strategy, tasking players with managing intelligence agencies during the Cold War.
- #27 Europa Universalis V
77% matchMostly Positive72% of 26,573 reviews2025
Dev: Paradox TintoPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 45.3 hrsMean: 90.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Use war, trade or diplomacy to satisfy your grandest ambitions and dominate five centuries of history in the newest version of Europa Universalis, Paradox Interactive's flagship historical grand strategy game.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 28.3% ★, Diplomacy 18.1% ★, Wargame 15%, Alternate History 13.1%, Economy 8.6%
- #28 Galactic Civilizations IV
78% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,388 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pioneer new technologies.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 39% ★, Diplomacy 35% ★, Moddable 17% ★, Strategy 7.8%, Singleplayer 1.2%
Why You'll Like It: This deep 4x strategy game offers extensive customization and political systems for managing a space-faring empire.
- #29 Age of Conquest IV
79% matchVery Positive82% of 2,804 reviews2016
Dev: Noble Master LLC
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Age of Conquest is a turn-based grand strategy wargame.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 41% ★, War 21.7%, Strategy 14.8%, RTS 9.9%, Medieval 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: It provides a turn-based, map-conquest experience that is easy to pick up but offers significant strategic depth.
- #30 Making History: The Second World War
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 284 reviews2018
Dev: Factus Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Choose a nation and prepare for the greatest conflict in human history, World War II. Build your military and industrial power, form alliances and race to achieve the advanced technologies that will bring total victory in this global-wide turn-based Grand Strategy struggle.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 21% ★, World War II 20.2% ★, Wargame 12.9%, Moddable 9.8% ★, Alternate History 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a dedicated grand strategy experience for players interested in the specific challenges of World War II.
- #31 Nations
75% matchVery Positive87% of 95 reviews2025
Dev: Krzysztof SteinerPub: Krzysztof Steiner Games
Windows
Select an era, a nation and lead it to greatness or decay. Develop the economy and society, or focus on military and territorial expansion. In Nations you can rule your people for centuries – from ancient times to the modern day and beyond. You shape your state, history and map of the world.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 21.8% ★, Wargame 17.6%, Diplomacy 15% ★, RTS 14.9%, Alternate History 10.5%
- #32 Supremacy: Call of War 1942
77% matchMostly Positive72% of 6,188 reviews2017
Dev: Bytro Labs GmbH
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 35.7 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Take over the control of one of the mighty nations during the times of World War 2 in this persisting long-term strategy game. Conquer provinces, forge alliances and build up your economy in real-time. Research top secret weapons of World War 2 and become the one true superpower!
Why similar: World War II 19.7% ★, Grand Strategy 18.9% ★, Diplomacy 14.2% ★, Wargame 10.4%, War 8.9%
- #33 SUPREMACY: WORLD WAR 3
76% matchMostly Positive75% of 5,805 reviews2018
Dev: Dorado Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 36.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
This Long Term Strategy Game lets you take control of the armed forces of your nation. Become responsible for its military expansion, technological research and economic development. Form alliances and wage total war for global dominance on the battlefields of World War 3.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.9% ★, Wargame 24.4%, Diplomacy 19.6% ★, RTS 12%, Alternate History 9.9%
- #34 Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic
72% matchVery Positive91% of 25,183 reviews2024
Dev: 3DivisionPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.6 hrsMean: 73.0 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.2% ★, Diplomacy 21.8% ★, Alternate History 13.7%, Economy 13.6%, Moddable 10.7% ★
- #35 Hearts of Iron III
76% matchMostly Positive76% of 6,046 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 20.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Hearts of Iron III lets you play the most engaging conflict in world history, World War 2, on all fronts as any country and through multiple different scenarios. Guide your nation to glory between 1936 and 1948 and wage war, conduct diplomacy and build your industry in the most detailed World War 2 game ever made.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 40.5% ★, World War II 31.2% ★, Strategy 8.2%, Wargame 6.3%, War 4.9%
- #36 KAISERPUNK
73% matchMostly Positive72% of 792 reviews2025
Dev: Overseer Games
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Build a city to rule the world in Kaiserpunk, a grand city builder blending production-focused city building with world conquest in an alternate 20th century world. Manage your city, grow industries, build a military, and defeat rivals to become the greatest empire.
Why similar: World War I 17.7% ★, Grand Strategy 16.3% ★, World War II 13.1% ★, Wargame 12.7%, Alternate History 12.6%
- #37 Making History: The First World War
75% matchMixed67% of 114 reviews2021
Dev: Factus Games
Windows · Linux
A turn-based WWI Grand Strategy game. Rush to field new modern weaponry and survive the horrendous attrition battles. Join the global conflict between the Great Powers of the age and forge a new world order for freedom or tyranny.
Why similar: World War I 31.5% ★, Wargame 19.4%, Grand Strategy 19.2% ★, Alternate History 11.3%, Economy 6.6%
- #38 Arsenal of Democracy: A Hearts of Iron Game
74% matchVery Positive84% of 387 reviews2010
Dev: BL-LogicPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 8.4 hrs≥1hr: 46%
Taking place from 1936-64, Arsenal of Democracy lets you play as any nation during the era of WW2, complete with detailed models for economics, diplomacy, research, and intelligence. Warfare is also fully represented with all three branches of operations: land, sea, and air.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 49.5% ★, World War II 27.7% ★, Strategy 22.8%
- #39 Renaissance Kingdom Wars
71% matchMostly Positive73% of 161 reviews2024
Dev: Reverie World StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
The year is 1510. As wars rage across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, it is the age of gunpowder and mercenaries - that changed the course of history. You can do it as well, going from a leader of men to the ruler of an empire in this unique mix of RTS and grand strategy.
Why similar: Diplomacy 20.4% ★, Grand Strategy 19.4% ★, Wargame 16.6%, RTS 12.2%, Economy 9.3%
- #40 For The Glory: A Europa Universalis Game
74% matchMostly Positive77% of 171 reviews2009
Dev: Crystal Empire GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 35.9 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Take up the reins of your country, guide domestic and foreign policy, navigate thousands of historical figures and events, engage in various struggles and lead your country to prosperity – all in the name of glory!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 24.7% ★, Diplomacy 20.8% ★, Alternate History 13.7%, Economy 9.1%, Moddable 7.3% ★
- #41 Crusader Kings II
71% matchVery Positive91% of 73,445 reviews2012
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 55.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Explore one of the defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 65.2% ★, Medieval 10.9%, Diplomacy 10.2% ★, Strategy 6.8%, Moddable 3.7% ★
- #42 ENDLESS™ Legend 2
68% matchVery Positive84% of 2,346 reviews2025
Dev: AMPLITUDE StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Lead your people to victory on an ever-evolving world in this strategy game featuring asymmetric factions led by powerful heroes. Build your empire, wield political influence, and raise grand armies to wage war in a race to uncover dark secrets buried within the planet.
Why similar: Diplomacy 22.9% ★, Grand Strategy 22.8% ★, Alternate History 12.7%, Moddable 9.9% ★, Economy 9.9%
- #43 Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War
69% matchVery Positive82% of 645 reviews2025
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 27.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Crisis in the Kremlin is a global real-time political strategy about the Socialist world in its final decade. Shape the fate of the world as you manage economy, foreign relations, and domestic policy. Engage with countries across the globe, using diplomacy or even proxy wars to expand your reach.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 24.3% ★, Alternate History 19.7%, Diplomacy 19.4% ★, Cold War 14.5% ★, Economy 13.1%
- #44 Strategy & Tactics: Wargame Collection
73% matchMixed69% of 284 reviews2016
Dev: HeroLabs
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.2 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Strategy & Tactics: Wargame Collection is a set of three historical turn-based strategies, in which you are going to take command of the armies in the greatest Medieval wars as well as take control of countries and nations during World War II.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.2% ★, World War II 21.7% ★, Strategy 17.7%, Alternate History 13.6%, War 12.3%
- #45 Hegemony III: Clash of the Ancients
72% matchVery Positive82% of 552 reviews2015
Dev: Longbow Games
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 25.3 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Command armies, manage resources, and build an empire in this real-time strategy wargame from Longbow Games. Will Rome fulfil its destiny to rule the ancient world or will history be rewritten to forge a new Etruscan, Gallic, or Greek hegemony!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 26.8% ★, Wargame 23.4%, RTS 19.2%, Alternate History 16.8%, Strategy 12.9%
- #46 Sid Meier's Civilization VII
69% matchMixed48% of 53,475 reviews2025
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 17.4 hrsMean: 44.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
The award-winning strategy game franchise returns with a revolutionary new chapter. Sid Meier's Civilization® VII empowers you to build the greatest empire the world has ever known!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 26.5% ★, Diplomacy 26.3% ★, Alternate History 13.9%, Economy 11.4%, War 9.1%
- #47 Supreme Ruler 2030
71% matchMixed64% of 536 reviews2023
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Rise to power as any modern day country in a realistic military, political and economic simulation. Command your country's diplomacy, espionage, and resource management to strengthen your position. Use real-time tactical control of your military to fortify your place as the Supreme Ruler.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 18.9% ★, Wargame 16.4%, Diplomacy 16% ★, RTS 12.1%, Moddable 9.7% ★
- #48 HUMANKIND™
70% matchMixed69% of 28,231 reviews2021
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 33.0 hrs≥1hr: 91%
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™.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 47% ★, Strategy 22.2%, War 11.2%, Alternate History 11%, Tactical 4.6%
- #49 To End All Wars
73% matchMixed63% of 189 reviews2014
Dev: AgeodPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Ageod’s To End All Wars is a grand strategy game set during World War One. Players will take control over one of the major powers that so desperately fought for control over Europe and to end all wars.
Why similar: World War I 41.2% ★, Grand Strategy 26% ★, Wargame 19.3%, Strategy 13.5%
- #50 Imperiums: Greek Wars
70% matchVery Positive86% of 540 reviews2020
Dev: Kube Games
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Unique combination of turn-based 4X and historical grand strategy with a mythological twist. Explore the ancient world and build a world leading civilization. Survive, expand, conquer... and win!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.6% ★, Diplomacy 21.2% ★, Alternate History 16.3%, Moddable 11.4% ★, Economy 11.3%
- #51 Ara History Untold: Anniversary Edition
68% matchMixed70% of 2,201 reviews2024
Dev: Oxide GamesPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 18.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
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.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.3% ★, Diplomacy 29.3% ★, Alternate History 24.9%, Strategy 8.5%, Singleplayer 1.1%
- #52 The Emperor and State
69% matchMixed57% of 317 reviews2024
Dev: 涂途Pub: Hawthorn Games
Windows
The Emperor and State is a turn-based strategy game that simulates the rule of an ancient feudal monarch. It involves the administration, policy adjustment, diplomatic checks and balances, national wars, as well as the emperor's self-cultivation, the cultivation of successors and so on.
Why similar: Diplomacy 21.9% ★, Grand Strategy 21.7% ★, Wargame 17.3%, Alternate History 14.6%, Economy 10.2%
- #53 Countryballs Conquest
67% matchVery Positive88% of 85 reviews2025
Dev: Indenial Games
Windows
Lead your country through the Victorian age, expand your empire as you go head to head with the great powers of the world.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 39.9% ★, War 15.6%, Diplomacy 15.1% ★, RTS 10.1%, Strategy 9.2%
- #54 Supreme Ruler 1936
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 303 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Real-Time Strategy Game. Guide your nation through the most violent era in modern history. Play massive campaigns as one of the principal nations, set-piece scenarios of famous battles, or set your own victory condition and play as any nation in the world in Sandbox mode.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 26.3% ★, World War II 22.1% ★, Wargame 20%, RTS 15.1%, War 9.6%
- #55 The Great War: Western Front™
67% matchMixed66% of 3,181 reviews2023
Dev: PetroglyphPub: Frontier Foundry
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 14.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
The Great War: Western Front is the definitive WW1 strategy game. Play a deciding role in history with this real-time tactical experience as you take charge in the iconic Western Front from 1914 to 1919. Pick your faction and lead your forces to victory.
Why similar: World War I 35% ★, Grand Strategy 18.5% ★, RTS 15.7%, Wargame 11.8%, Strategy 7.8%
- #56 Knights of the Crusades
65% matchMostly Positive75% of 165 reviews2025
Dev: Reverie World StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Travel to the Holy Land with the First Crusades. Rise from a humble knight to the founding father of a world-spanning holy order. Lead through war, faith, diplomacy, and cunning schemes. Experience a unique blend of RTS, city-building, and sandbox gameplay, and shape history!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.5% ★, Wargame 19.3%, RTS 17.3%, Diplomacy 16.9% ★, Medieval 7.4%
- #57 Heart of the Machine
62% matchVery Positive93% of 1,838 reviews2026
Dev: Arcen GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 17.3 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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.
Why similar: Diplomacy 25% ★, Grand Strategy 24.9% ★, Alternate History 14.4%, Moddable 12.2% ★, Economy 12%
- #58 Medieval Kingdom Wars
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 2,602 reviews2019
Dev: Reverie World StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Rewrite medieval history through bloody siege combat in a fusion of RTS and Grand Strategy genres. Rule, build, and serve your King as a minor lord in medieval Europe. Experience siege, field and naval combat with an unseen degree of brutality. Rogue-like progression, epic towns and battles await…
Why similar: Grand Strategy 21.8% ★, Diplomacy 21.4% ★, Wargame 15.9%, RTS 13.3%, Economy 9.8%
- #59 DSS 2: War Industry
64% matchVery Positive86% of 146 reviews2025
Dev: vikingfabian
Windows
In this real-time grand strategy game, command armies, build cities, and manage a dynamic economy. Establish automated supply routes within your territory to streamline production. Fortify your defenses and brace for intense battles. Can you lead your empire to dominance?
Why similar: Wargame 25.8%, Grand Strategy 24.2% ★, RTS 16.3%, Economy 13.7%, Medieval 9.3%