- #1 Old World
97% matchVery Positive82% of 6,667 reviews2022
Dev: Mohawk GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
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: 4X 22.9% ★, Grand Strategy 17.9% ★, Diplomacy 15.9% ★, Alternate History 11%, Historical 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: It masterfully blends 4X empire-building with character-driven narrative elements and historical depth.
- #2 Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI
96% matchVery Positive86% of 375,846 reviews2016
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.1 hrsMean: 100.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Expand your empire, advance your culture and go head-to-head against history’s greatest leaders. Will your civilization stand the test of time?
Why similar: 4X 25.9% ★, Grand Strategy 24% ★, Historical 15.7%, Strategy 13.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive 4X experience that shares the core historical progression and city-building DNA found in Ara.
- #3 HUMANKIND™
96% matchMixed69% of 28,527 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: 4X 33.3% ★, Grand Strategy 20.5% ★, Historical 12.3%, Strategy 10%, Alternate History 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similar era-based progression system that allows players to evolve their culture throughout human history.
- #4 Millennia
95% matchMixed67% of 3,770 reviews2024
Dev: C Prompt GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 35.1 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: 4X 24.5% ★, Grand Strategy 18.1% ★, Diplomacy 14.2% ★, Alternate History 13.5%, Historical 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a comparable historical 4X experience with unique timeline branching mechanics that alter the course of your civilization.
- #5 Victoria 3
94% matchMostly Positive70% of 60,188 reviews2022
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 14.7 hrsMean: 118.5 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 28% ★, Diplomacy 19.5% ★, Historical 13.5%, Alternate History 13.3%, Military 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers complex economic and political management within a detailed historical framework.
- #6 Age of Wonders 4
94% matchVery Positive81% of 22,647 reviews2023
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 22.1 hrsMean: 60.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Rule a fantasy realm of your own design! Explore new magical realms in Age of Wonders’ signature blend of 4X strategy and turn-based tactical combat. Control a faction that grows and changes as you expand your empire with each turn!
Why similar: 4X 48.6% ★, Grand Strategy 33.5% ★, Strategy 9%, Turn-Based Strategy 4.9%, Multiplayer 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: Blends 4X empire-building with deep turn-based tactical combat and extensive customization options.
- #7 Europa Universalis IV
93% matchVery Positive88% of 136,818 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 280.6 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: 4X 21.9% ★, Grand Strategy 21.1% ★, Diplomacy 16.4% ★, Alternate History 13.3%, Historical 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for deep, complex historical grand strategy and geopolitical maneuvering.
- #8 Crusader Kings III
91% matchVery Positive90% of 141,224 reviews2020
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 28.8 hrsMean: 147.8 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 35.5% ★, 4X 24.3% ★, Historical 17.5%, Strategy 10.7%, Management 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on dynasty management and historical grand strategy, offering a more personal take on nation-building.
- #9 ENDLESS Legend™
92% matchVery Positive83% of 19,033 reviews2014
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 22.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
ENDLESS Legend™ is a 4X turn-based fantasy strategy game by the creators of ENDLESS Space™ and Dungeon of the ENDLESS™. Control every aspect of your civilization as you struggle to save your homeworld Auriga. Create your own Legend!
Why similar: 4X 58.6% ★, Strategy 16.2%, Grand Strategy 9.4% ★, Turn-Based 7.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep 4X experience with distinct faction mechanics and engaging tactical combat in a rich world.
- #10 Field of Glory: Empires
91% matchVery Positive82% of 865 reviews2019
Dev: AgeodPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 30.5 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Field of Glory: Empires is a grand strategy game in which you will have to move in an intricate and living tapestry of nations and tribes, each one with their distinctive culture.
Why similar: 4X 24.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.2% ★, Historical 11.3%, Strategy 8.3%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A historical grand strategy game that emphasizes logistical and military management during the rise of ancient civilizations.
- #11 Knights of Honor II: Sovereign
90% matchMostly Positive77% of 6,628 reviews2022
Dev: Black Sea GamesPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Become the king and fight over Europe in this fresh take on medieval real-time grand strategy. Manage provinces, gather armies, initiate diplomacy, and dabble in espionage. The path is open: become the true Sovereign of your people and bring them to glory.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 46.9% ★, 4X 17.5% ★, Strategy 16.9%, Historical 14.3%, City Builder 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time grand strategy game that captures the feel of managing a medieval kingdom with accessible mechanics.
- #12 Galactic Civilizations IV
89% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,484 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 22.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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: 4X 33.1% ★, Grand Strategy 26.9% ★, Diplomacy 21.4% ★, Management 6.6%, Strategy 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A deep 4X game focused on diplomacy, research, and empire expansion in a sci-fi universe.
- #13 Total War: THREE KINGDOMS
89% matchVery Positive82% of 93,176 reviews2019
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 21.5 hrsMean: 89.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Unite Ancient China under your rule through a thrilling blend of turn-based empire building and real-time battles. Use the Guanxi System and diplomacy to forge alliances, and build powerful armies with hundreds of unique infantry, cavalry and war machine units.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 32.1% ★, Historical 31.3%, Strategy 16.7%, Military 10.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: Combines turn-based empire management with large-scale tactical battles in a historical setting.
- #14 Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic
86% matchVery Positive91% of 26,420 reviews2024
Dev: 3DivisionPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 71.8 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 22.1% ★, 4X 17.6% ★, Diplomacy 13.7% ★, Historical 11.7%, Alternate History 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly deep city-building and economic management experience with a focus on supply chains.
- #15 Aggressors: Ancient Rome
88% matchVery Positive82% of 281 reviews2018
Dev: Kubat SoftwarePub: Kube Games
Windows
A mix of deep gameplay and rich historical flavor, Aggressors: Ancient Rome lets you relive history as the ruler of one of the mighty civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean. Choose one of twenty available factions and conquer the world.
Why similar: 4X 33.5% ★, Grand Strategy 22% ★, Historical 14.5%, Military 10.3%, Strategy 9%
Why You'll Like It: A 4X game specifically focused on the complexities of ancient Mediterranean politics and warfare.
- #16 Stellaris
86% matchVery Positive86% of 195,709 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 144.1 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: 4X 37.1% ★, Grand Strategy 31.1% ★, Diplomacy 13% ★, Strategy 7%, Military 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Translates the 4X experience into a vast, customizable space-faring setting with deep exploration and diplomacy.
- #17 Imperator: Rome
87% matchMixed66% of 26,838 reviews2019
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 37.6 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 53.3% ★, Historical 20.8%, Strategy 15.3%, Management 5.8%, Alternate History 2.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the management of an ancient empire with deep political and military systems.
- #18 Ozymandias: Bronze Age Empire Sim
85% matchVery Positive88% of 1,650 reviews2022
Dev: The Secret Games CompanyPub: Goblinz Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Build an empire in a single sitting. All the strategy of a classic 4X in a faster format, which also shines in multiplayer.
Why similar: 4X 26.4% ★, Grand Strategy 21.7% ★, Historical 11.1%, Turn-Based Tactics 7.6%, Resource Management 7%
Why You'll Like It: A streamlined 4X game that emphasizes historical expansion and resource management in the ancient world.
- #19 Terra Invicta
84% matchVery Positive81% of 9,434 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 52.2 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: 4X 22.8% ★, Grand Strategy 17.8% ★, Diplomacy 16.1% ★, Alternate History 12.3%, Historical 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A complex grand strategy game focused on geopolitical maneuvering and long-term planning against an alien threat.
- #20 Against the Storm
83% matchVery Positive95% of 36,338 reviews2023
Dev: Eremite GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 28.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
A dark fantasy city builder where you must rebuild civilization in the face of apocalyptic rains. As the Queen’s Viceroy, lead humans, beavers, lizards, foxes, and harpies to reclaim the wilderness and secure a future for civilization's last survivors.
Why similar: 4X 24.5% ★, Grand Strategy 21.2% ★, Diplomacy 18.6% ★, Historical 11%, Resource Management 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A unique city-builder that incorporates roguelite elements and resource management in a fantasy setting.
- #21 Hexarchy
84% matchVery Positive82% of 1,589 reviews2023
Dev: Main Tank SoftwarePub: Yogscast Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 14.3 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Hexarchy is an innovative, fast-paced, historical 4x strategy game where you use cards and deckbuilding to make your decisions. Single-player and online multiplayer.
Why similar: 4X 28.5% ★, Grand Strategy 20.9% ★, Historical 11.3%, Military 9.1%, Turn-Based Tactics 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced 4X game that distills the genre into tactical, card-based decision-making.
- #22 Songs of Conquest
82% matchVery Positive86% of 13,444 reviews2024
Dev: LavapotionPub: Coffee Stain Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Raise mighty armies, wield ancient magic and forge an empire. This turn-based strategy adventure game fuses strategic decision making, tactical combat and kingdom management.
Why similar: 4X 62.8% ★, Turn-Based Tactics 20.7%, Strategy 10.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based strategy game with strong city-building and resource management elements inspired by classic titles.
- #23 Age of History II
82% matchVery Positive90% of 49,789 reviews2018
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows
Median: 12.6 hrsMean: 62.4 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 31.8% ★, Historical 20.7%, Diplomacy 15.8% ★, Alternate History 11%, Strategy 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: A grand strategy game focused on global diplomacy and historical conquest across the entire timeline of humanity.
- #24 Anno 1800
81% matchVery Positive81% of 31,755 reviews2019
Dev: Ubisoft MainzPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 9.8 hrsMean: 40.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Anno 1800™ – Lead the Industrial Revolution! Welcome to the dawn of the Industrial Age. The path you choose will define your world. Are you an innovator or an exploiter? A conqueror or a liberator? How the world remembers your name is up to you.
Why similar: City Builder 27.4%, Strategy 23.6%, Resource Management 19.1%, Historical 13.9%, Management 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A masterclass in city-building and complex supply chain management set during the Industrial Revolution.
- #25 Norland
80% matchVery Positive82% of 10,106 reviews2024
Dev: Long JauntPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 18.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Lead your noble family in this medieval colony sim, facing off against class conflict, religious struggle, and political treachery. Tend to your people’s needs, uncover the lost knowledge of a fallen empire, and engage in nefarious plots against your enemies.
Why similar: 4X 27.5% ★, Grand Strategy 23.5% ★, Historical 12.3%, Diplomacy 9.4% ★, Resource Management 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: A colony-sim that emphasizes political intrigue and social management within a medieval setting.
- #26 Sins of a Solar Empire II
79% matchVery Positive84% of 8,475 reviews2024
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 30.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics.
Why similar: 4X 75.4% ★, Strategy 16.1%, Multiplayer 4%, Singleplayer 2.7%, 3D 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: A seamless blend of 4X strategy and real-time tactical combat in a space setting.
- #27 Rogue State Revolution
81% matchMostly Positive76% of 538 reviews2021
Dev: LRDGames, Inc.Pub: Modern Wolf
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Greetings your Excellency. Time to rebuild, reform and prepare for new challenges in the People's Republic of Basenji. In this thrilling political strategy, you will appoint ministers and lead the country to success. Be careful — you may find yourself replaced in the next election.
Why similar: 4X 26.8% ★, Grand Strategy 21.4% ★, Diplomacy 16.9% ★, Historical 10.7%, Resource Management 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A political simulation that challenges players to manage a nation's stability and international relations through turn-based decisions.
- #28 ENDLESS Legend™ 2
77% matchVery Positive83% of 2,655 reviews2025
Dev: AMPLITUDE StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 12.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
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: 4X 25.6% ★, Grand Strategy 19.9% ★, Diplomacy 18.3% ★, Historical 10.4%, Military 7.4%
- #29 Heart of the Machine
76% matchVery Positive92% of 2,051 reviews2026
Dev: Arcen GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 17.9 hrs≥1hr: 74%
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: 4X 21.2% ★, Grand Strategy 18.9% ★, Diplomacy 16.8% ★, Alternate History 12%, Historical 9.8%
- #30 Europa Universalis V
77% matchMixed67% of 29,562 reviews2025
Dev: Paradox TintoPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 51.6 hrsMean: 110.1 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: 4X 22.3% ★, Grand Strategy 20.7% ★, Diplomacy 18.3% ★, Alternate History 14%, Historical 10.8%
- #31 Nova Roma
76% matchVery Positive94% of 2,044 reviews2026
Dev: Lion ShieldPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The glory of Rome is at your fingertips in this city-building game where you must appease the gods, enact laws, and develop complex supply chains to meet the needs of your citizens.
Why similar: 4X 23.7% ★, Grand Strategy 21.9% ★, Diplomacy 17.4% ★, Historical 11.8%, Resource Management 7.6%
- #32 Sid Meier's Civilization VII
78% matchMixed48% of 57,106 reviews2025
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.3 hrsMean: 48.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Lead empires that evolve or endure through the Ages. Build something you believe in with Sid Meier's Civilization® VII.
Why similar: 4X 21.4% ★, Grand Strategy 18.5% ★, Diplomacy 16.1% ★, Alternate History 10.4%, Historical 9.1%
- #33 Master of Orion
79% matchMostly Positive77% of 8,153 reviews2016
Dev: NGD StudiosPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 101.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
The ascendant spacefaring 4X strategy game returns! A new chapter in the epic Master of Orion saga is poised to once again capture the imaginations of millions of gamers.
Why similar: 4X 67% ★, Strategy 16.3%, Grand Strategy 9.1% ★, Turn-Based 5.2%, Multiplayer 1.2%
Why You'll Like It: A classic 4X title that defined many of the core mechanics found in modern strategy games.
- #34 Unity of Command II
78% matchMostly Positive80% of 2,167 reviews2019
Dev: 2x2 Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 18.0 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Unity of Command II is the sequel to one of the most critically acclaimed strategy games of all time; a game critics called 'the perfect gateway' into computer war games.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 30.7% ★, Alternate History 13.7%, Strategy 13.4%, Historical 11.6%, Military 11.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the logistical and tactical challenges of historical warfare with a strong emphasis on supply lines.
- #35 Whiskerwood
75% matchVery Positive93% of 3,148 reviews2025
Dev: Minakata DynamicsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 16.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Establish a home for your industrious mice under the oppressive paw of your cat overlords in this city builder featuring complex simulations, intricate production chains, and the age-old rivalry between cat and mouse.
Why similar: 4X 24.5% ★, Grand Strategy 21.3% ★, Diplomacy 18.2% ★, Historical 11.3%, Resource Management 7.6%
- #36 KAISERPUNK
74% matchMostly Positive72% of 847 reviews2025
Dev: Overseer Games
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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: Grand Strategy 25.6% ★, Alternate History 21.8%, Historical 12.7%, Military 11.5%, Resource Management 8.2%
- #37 Imperiums: Greek Wars
75% matchVery Positive86% of 544 reviews2020
Dev: Kube Games
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 8.9 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: 4X 24.9% ★, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, Diplomacy 13.5% ★, Alternate History 12.9%, Historical 9.7%
- #38 Empires of the Undergrowth
72% matchVery Positive94% of 18,267 reviews2024
Dev: Slug DiscoPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 18.5 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Command swarms of warriors at an unprecedented scale of warfare in this blend of RTS and base-building. Lead ant colonies against the many fearsome threats of the insect world, while building intricate nests, developing pheromone-based tactics, and evolving to meet growing dangers.
Why similar: 4X 21.4% ★, Grand Strategy 19% ★, Diplomacy 15.3% ★, Alternate History 12.6%, Historical 9.8%
- #39 Rebel Inc: Escalation
74% matchVery Positive82% of 7,395 reviews2021
Dev: Ndemic CreationsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 13.1 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: 4X 23.5% ★, Grand Strategy 18.2% ★, Diplomacy 17% ★, Alternate History 12.3%, Historical 9.8%
- #40 Anno 117: Pax Romana
72% matchMixed70% of 12,325 reviews2025
Dev: Ubisoft MainzPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 14.1 hrsMean: 26.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Shape the Roman Empire in this genre-defining strategic builder game. Build cities while expanding your influence through Roman provinces. Govern using your economic prowess, diplomatic skills, or military might.
Why similar: Historical 28.3%, Strategy 19.8%, City Builder 17.8%, Resource Management 14.9%, Management 14.7%
- #41 Nations
71% matchVery Positive88% of 123 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 30.9% ★, Historical 22%, Diplomacy 18.8% ★, Alternate History 16.2%, Strategy 11.6%
- #42 Oriental Empires
73% matchVery Positive81% of 2,995 reviews2017
Dev: Shining Pixel StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Turn based 4X strategy game, recreating the civilizations of ancient China. Develop your land, build great cities, raise huge armies and fight epic battles, with hundreds of soldiers fighting right on the game map. Advance your technologies, culture and religion to create one of mankind’s biggest empires.
Why similar: 4X 36.9% ★, Grand Strategy 19.1% ★, Historical 16.2%, Military 10.4%, Strategy 9.9%
- #43 Microcivilization
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 1,435 reviews2026
Dev: Ondrej Homola
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 18.8 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Incremental clicker strategy, where you expand, construct, research, fight, collect heroes and make choices between good and evil. Ascend through difficulty tiers by playing through challenge campaign going back and forth through history. Mammoths included.
Why similar: 4X 37.1% ★, Diplomacy 19.2% ★, Historical 14.6%, Resource Management 11.1%, Management 6.2%
- #44 Hearts of Iron IV
70% matchVery Positive90% of 371,076 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30.3 hrsMean: 296.2 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 32.1% ★, Alternate History 16.6%, Historical 15.1%, Diplomacy 12.9% ★, Military 11.4%
- #45 Pax Nova
73% matchMixed56% of 450 reviews2020
Dev: Grey Wolf EntertainmentPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
A sci-fi turn-based 4X strategy game where you lead the fate of one of several factions divided between three races. Explore new worlds and new star systems filled with exciting secrets as well as dangers. Build cities, expand your influence and fight great battles on land and in space.
Why similar: 4X 32.1% ★, Grand Strategy 22.6% ★, Diplomacy 16.6% ★, Military 8.7%, Strategy 6.2%
- #46 AlexanderBall: A Countryball Tale
70% matchVery Positive90% of 82 reviews2024
Dev: Red Thorn Interactive
Windows · Mac
Ascend to the Macedonian throne as Alexander the Great and relive his conquests! Fighting alongside redoubtable and quirky commanders, recruit numerous types of balls for your army, construct countless cities named Alexandria, and build an empire that stretches to the ends of the known world!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 23.2% ★, 4X 15.6% ★, Diplomacy 13.6% ★, Historical 11.9%, Alternate History 11.8%
- #47 Revival: Recolonization
71% matchMixed69% of 424 reviews2024
Dev: HeroCraft PC
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Set in a post-apoc version of Earth, Revival is a 4x strategy game where the world and its rules can change at key moments, creating a deep and highly replayable experience.
Why similar: 4X 30.6% ★, Grand Strategy 23.4% ★, Diplomacy 20.8% ★, Resource Management 6.9%, Management 5.3%
- #48 Dune: Spice Wars
69% matchMostly Positive79% of 13,441 reviews2023
Dev: Shiro GamesPub: Funcom
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 16.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A 4X real-time strategy game from the developers of the critically acclaimed Northgard. Set in Frank Herbert’s groundbreaking Dune universe, you must lead your faction and battle for control and dominance over the harsh desert planet of Arrakis.
Why similar: 4X 32.4% ★, Grand Strategy 24.4% ★, Diplomacy 22.8% ★, Management 11%, Strategy 5.6%
- #49 For The Glory: A Europa Universalis Game
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 171 reviews2009
Dev: Crystal Empire GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 35.9 hrs≥1hr: 43%
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: 4X 25.5% ★, Grand Strategy 23.3% ★, Diplomacy 17.4% ★, Alternate History 14.2%, Historical 12.2%
- #50 Making History: The Second World War
71% matchMostly Positive78% of 289 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 22.6% ★, 4X 21% ★, Historical 12.3%, Alternate History 11.4%, Military 9.2%
- #51 MEMORIAPOLIS
67% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,767 reviews2025
Dev: 5PM Studio
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Memoriapolis is a historical city builder where your city grows organically across 5 ages, from Antiquity to the Industrial Revolution. Manage resources, interact with factions, and shape your dynasty toward building a final Wonder with easy, normal, or hard difficulty levels.
Why similar: Historical 28%, Management 18.2%, Resource Management 17.9%, City Builder 16.9%, Strategy 13.6%
- #52 Pompeii: The Legacy
66% matchVery Positive83% of 259 reviews2026
Dev: Siscia Games
Windows
Rebuild Pompeii from the ashes and lead it through centuries of politics, intrigue, and survival. Shape laws, expand trade across the Empire, guide your city through disasters, and command legions in optional real-time battles. Your legacy begins now.
Why similar: Historical 37.3%, City Builder 17.7%, Strategy 16.6%, Resource Management 16.2%, Top-Down 5%
- #53 Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era
64% matchVery Positive88% of 20,212 reviews2026
Dev: UnfrozenPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 18.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era is the official prequel hailing back to the origins of the genre-defining, critically acclaimed series of turn-based strategy games. Raise grand armies and wield devastating spells to overcome your foes in both solo and multiplayer.
Why similar: 4X 31.1% ★, Grand Strategy 24.5% ★, Historical 12.3%, Military 9.3%, Strategy 6%
- #54 Age of History 3
65% matchVery Positive85% of 18,215 reviews2024
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 10.2 hrsMean: 37.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Grand strategy wargame where the destiny of Civilizations rests in your hands - will they stand united under your leadership or fall divided in conflict? Journey through the entire saga of human civilization, from its earliest days to the futuristic era, crafting your legacy age by age.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.2% ★, Diplomacy 29.5% ★, Alternate History 24.8%, Strategy 8.4%, Singleplayer 1.1%
- #55 Republic of Pirates
67% matchMostly Positive72% of 509 reviews2024
Dev: Crazy Goat GamesPub: PQube
Windows
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Establish and grow a pirate utopia during the Golden Age of Piracy. Create a resource-based economy, engage in real-time naval combat, and conduct diplomacy with rival powers. Explore the far reaches of the Caribbean in search of the ultimate fortune and glory.
Why similar: Diplomacy 26.9% ★, Resource Management 17.9%, Historical 16.2%, Management 13.8%, Strategy 11.6%
- #56 Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition
65% matchVery Positive86% of 94,109 reviews2021
Dev: World's EdgePub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 14.2 hrsMean: 76.9 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Celebrating its first year of delighting millions of global players, the award-winning and best-selling strategy franchise continues with Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition, putting you at the center of even more epic historical battles that shaped the world.
Why similar: Strategy 26.4%, Historical 23.7%, Resource Management 20.5%, City Builder 11.1%, Management 5.4%
- #57 Manor Lords
64% matchVery Positive84% of 88,470 reviews2024
Dev: Slavic MagicPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 22.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Manor Lords is a medieval strategy game featuring in-depth city building, large-scale tactical battles, and complex economic and social simulations. Rule your lands as a medieval lord – the seasons pass, the weather changes, and cities rise and fall.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 33% ★, Historical 17.9%, 4X 13.8% ★, Diplomacy 10.5% ★, Strategy 7.5%
- #58 Making History: The First World War
68% 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: 4X 23.4% ★, Grand Strategy 21% ★, Alternate History 13.6%, Historical 12.7%, Strategy 6.3%
- #59 Yield! Fall of Rome
66% matchMostly Positive72% of 263 reviews2025
Dev: BillionworldsPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Forge your Kingdom amidst the Ruins of Rome in this turn-based 4X strategy game! As the world crumbles, rebuild civilization and shape your people’s destiny. Unleash your strategic prowess, conquer provinces, and crush all who stand in your way.
Why similar: 4X 31.5% ★, Grand Strategy 20.9% ★, Historical 11.8%, Turn-Based Tactics 9.2%, Management 6.8%
