- #1 Crusader Kings II
97% 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 48.2% ★, Historical 11.6%, Medieval 11.5%, Strategy 6.6%, Real-Time with Pause 4.2% ★
Why You'll Like It: It is the closest alternative on Steam, offering the same dynasty-driven medieval grand strategy built around succession, intrigue, religion, and emergent character stories.
- #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 21.1% ★, Historical 12.1%, Real-Time with Pause 11.5% ★, 4X 11.3% ★, Political 10.4% ★
Why You'll Like It: While more state-focused than character-focused, it delivers the same map-painting sandbox, diplomacy, warfare, and long-form historical strategy depth CK3 players often want next.
- #3 Old World
96% 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: Grand Strategy 21.9% ★, 4X 14.3% ★, Historical 12.6%, Moddable 9.6% ★, War 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: Its blend of 4X strategy with rulers, heirs, court politics, marriages, and event-driven storytelling makes it one of the best character-focused substitutes for CK3.
- #4 Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
94% matchVery Positive88% of 286,599 reviews2022
Dev: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Windows
Median: 61.2 hrsMean: 152.2 hrs≥1hr: 96%
A strategy/action RPG. Create a character, engage in diplomacy, craft, trade and conquer new lands in a vast medieval sandbox. Raise armies to lead into battle and command and fight alongside your troops in massive real-time battles using a deep but intuitive skill-based combat system.
Why similar: Medieval 23.5%, War 13.9%, Strategy 11.6%, Moddable 10.2% ★, Sandbox 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: Its medieval sandbox of clans, vassals, marriages, warfare, and rising noble power captures CK3's personal-feudal fantasy from a more direct action-RPG angle.
- #5 Imperator: Rome
95% 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 36.6% ★, Historical 15.3%, Strategy 13%, Political 9.1% ★, Simulation 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: It mixes Paradox-style grand strategy with characters, families, internal politics, and realm management in a way that feels very familiar to CK3 players.
- #6 Total War: THREE KINGDOMS
94% matchVery Positive82% of 92,481 reviews2019
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 21.9 hrsMean: 89.5 hrs≥1hr: 92%
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.
Why similar: Historical 27.4%, Grand Strategy 25.6% ★, Strategy 16.9%, War 13.9%, RTS 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: This is one of the strongest character-centric strategy games on Steam, with relationships, court politics, personalities, diplomacy, and dynastic tension layered onto grand warfare.
- #7 Knights of Honor II: Sovereign
93% matchMostly Positive77% of 6,461 reviews2022
Dev: Black Sea GamesPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 13.0 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 31.3% ★, Medieval 15.7%, Strategy 14.2%, RTS 11.6%, Historical 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: Its real-time medieval kingdom management, noble appointments, diplomacy, religion, and conquest make it a strong pick for players who like CK3's realm-level sandbox.
- #8 Victoria 3
91% 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 25.9% ★, Historical 13.7%, Real-Time with Pause 10.6% ★, Political 9.8% ★, Economy 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: It trades dynasties for populations and economics, but it scratches the same Paradox itch of steering a society through reform, diplomacy, and long-term historical change.
- #9 Sengoku
92% matchMixed62% of 473 reviews2011
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Use your power as a Feudal Lord to unite the land of the Rising Sun under your iron fist.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.2% ★, Historical 20.4%, Strategy 16.5%, Simulation 8.5%, RPG 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Made by Paradox, it is essentially a more focused feudal Japan take on the Crusader Kings formula with clans, honor, marriages, and succession politics.
- #10 The Guild 3
91% matchMixed61% of 7,840 reviews2022
Dev: Purple LampPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 6.7 hrsMean: 16.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
The Guild 3 is a fascinating trade and life simulation that takes place during the late Middle Ages. Step into the shoes of a citizen, acquire businesses and mansions, produce goods and trade them, start intrigues in politics and society, love, hate, bribe, fight and live through good and bad times!
Why similar: Medieval 21%, Life Sim 16.9%, Economy 16.5%, Strategy 10.1%, Simulation 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: If your favorite part of CK3 is building a family legacy through marriages, status, schemes, and social climbing, this is a great lower-scale alternative.
- #11 Great Houses of Calderia
90% matchMixed61% of 418 reviews2024
Dev: Resistance GamesPub: Firesquid
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Great Houses of Calderia is a Feudal Grand Strategy game focusing on family dynamics & stories. Use your family strengths to compete against rivals to rise in the ranks of Calderia - produce, trade, scheme, bribe, and battle to build your legacy of power!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.4% ★, Political 13.2% ★, 4X 7.8% ★, Medieval 7.7%, Management 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: It directly channels the idea of running a noble house through marriages, rivalries, trade, and political maneuvering, just in a fantasy setting.
- #12 Field of Glory: Kingdoms
89% matchVery Positive83% of 317 reviews2024
Dev: AGEODPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Politics, religion, war. They are nothing without a legacy that can stand the test of time. Lead any nation, and turn it into a mighty kingdom in one of the most compelling grand strategy games ever created.
Why similar: Historical 38.2%, Strategy 34.8%, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, Multiplayer 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: It offers deep medieval grand strategy centered on ruling a historical realm through expansion, internal development, and long-term political decision-making.
- #13 Norland
89% matchVery Positive82% of 9,662 reviews2024
Dev: Long JauntPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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: Grand Strategy 23.7% ★, 4X 14.5% ★, Historical 13.7%, Moddable 11.8% ★, Management 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Its focus on noble families, personal grudges, succession, and managing a fragile feudal realm makes it feel surprisingly close to CK3 at a colony-sim scale.
- #14 Stellaris
88% 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 32% ★, 4X 19.5% ★, Real-Time with Pause 10.5% ★, Strategy 8.9%, Sandbox 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: It captures CK3's emergent storytelling and empire-shaping freedom in a sci-fi setting, especially if you enjoy vassals, internal politics, and roleplaying your rulers.
- #15 Manor Lords
86% matchVery Positive85% of 85,453 reviews2024
Dev: Slavic MagicPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 21.5 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 23.5% ★, 4X 14.9% ★, Historical 13.7%, Moddable 12.2% ★, Management 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: If the medieval setting, lordship fantasy, and managing a growing domain are what you love most in CK3, this offers that from a grounded settlement-building perspective.
- #16 Hearts of Iron IV
86% 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 33.2% ★, Historical 16.9%, Strategy 12.2%, War 11.3%, Real-Time with Pause 10.2% ★
Why You'll Like It: It is far more military and state-focused than CK3, but it remains a top-tier Paradox grand strategy game for players who mainly want deep systems and alternate-history outcomes.
- #17 Victoria II
87% 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 36% ★, Historical 15.2%, Real-Time with Pause 10.7% ★, Strategy 8.1%, Economy 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Older and rougher than Victoria 3, but still excellent for players who enjoy dense historical simulation, political management, and watching a nation evolve across decades.
- #18 SAELIG
85% matchVery Positive86% of 1,077 reviews2017
Dev: Atorcoppe Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 60%
SÆLIG is a game that blends together elements of simulation, strategy, RPG, and business management. Centred around the life of you and your family, you must try to survive and bring wealth and prosperity to your household.
Why similar: Medieval 18.2%, Economy 13.6%, Management 13%, Historical 11.5%, Strategy 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a medieval life-sim take on dynasty building, where family advancement, reputation, trade, and social positioning matter more than battlefield conquest.
- #19 Yes, Your Grace
84% matchVery Positive87% of 13,642 reviews2020
Dev: Brave At NightPub: No More Robots
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
These are troubling times, Your Grace. The petitioners’ petty matters exceed our limited resources, to say nothing of the war. A careful balance must be struck. Your throne awaits.
Why similar: Medieval 21.1%, Historical 18.6%, Management 13.6%, Life Sim 13%, Choices Matter 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: It distills the ruler fantasy into family, court, petitioners, and hard political choices, making it a strong recommendation for players who love CK3's personal side.
- #20 Age of Wonders 4
82% matchVery Positive81% of 21,784 reviews2023
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 22.4 hrsMean: 58.8 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: Grand Strategy 25.2% ★, 4X 18.8% ★, Moddable 11.1% ★, War 9.3%, Strategy 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: It is fantasy rather than historical, but its ruler customization, empire development, roleplay freedom, and long-form strategy can appeal to CK3 players who enjoy sandbox storytelling.
- #21 Alliance of the Sacred Suns
84% matchNo user reviews
Dev: KatHawk Studios
Windows · Mac
Alliance of the Sacred Suns is a sci-fi grand-strategy RPG that begins with your coronation as the head of an interstellar Empire, and ends with your demise. Manage feuding noble houses and the schemes of would-be usurpers as you try to revive the glory of an Empire on the brink of collapse.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.3% ★, 4X 17.4% ★, Moddable 11.9% ★, Management 9.3%, War 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: This leans heavily into ruling a noble bloodline through court politics, faction management, marriage, and dynastic decision-making in a sci-fi empire.
- #22 Europa Universalis III Complete
83% matchVery Positive83% of 1,992 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Europa Universalis III Complete includes the original Europa Universalis III as well as the expansions In Nomine and Napoleons Ambition Europa Universalis III delves deeply into the areas of exploration, trade, warfare and diplomacy.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 40.5% ★, Historical 17.8%, Real-Time with Pause 11.6% ★, Strategy 10.6%, Political 8.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: An older but still rewarding Paradox sandbox, it shares CK3's appeal of guiding a realm through diplomacy, war, and centuries of historical what-if scenarios.
- #23 Stellar Monarch 2
82% matchVery Positive88% of 123 reviews2022
Dev: Silver Lemur Games
Windows
Stellar Monarch 2 is a feudal space empire builder where you feel like the Emperor, not a logistics officer. Great noble houses, usurpers to the throne, rebels, assassins, court intrigues, disloyal admirals, incompetent governors and ever-present alien threat.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 47.3% ★, 4X 35.1% ★, Strategy 17.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its feudal-space-empire structure of noble houses, heirs, vassals, and internal power balancing taps into some of the same dynastic strategy appeal as CK3.
- #24 Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI
81% matchVery Positive86% of 371,365 reviews2016
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.0 hrsMean: 98.6 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: Grand Strategy 25% ★, Historical 17.8%, Strategy 17.3%, 4X 13.8% ★, War 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: It lacks CK3's character drama, yet its long-form empire building, historical sandboxing, and satisfying expansion loop still make it a solid broader strategy fallback.
- #25 Total War: ATTILA
81% matchVery Positive82% of 36,976 reviews2015
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Linux
Median: 17.4 hrsMean: 80.7 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Against a darkening background of famine, disease and war, a new power is rising in the great steppes of the East. With a million horsemen at his back, the ultimate warrior king approaches, and his sights are set on Rome… The next instalment in the multi award-winning PC series that combines turn-based strategy with real-time tactics,...
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27.7% ★, Historical 22%, Strategy 15.7%, War 13%, RTS 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: Its collapsing realms, migration pressures, dynastic elements, and dark historical atmosphere make it a good fit for players who enjoy ruling through instability.
- #26 Suzerain
79% matchVery Positive93% of 11,092 reviews2020
Dev: Torpor Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Assume the role of President Anton Rayne and guide the nation of Sordland. Amidst brewing international conflicts, need for reform, deep-seated corruption, and economic recession, you must make the decisions in this political drama. How will you lead?
Why similar: Political 59.6% ★, Choices Matter 19.6%, RPG 17.6%, Singleplayer 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: Although it is more narrative than sandbox, its focus on political maneuvering, court factions, diplomacy, and difficult rulership decisions overlaps with CK3's intrigue appeal.
- #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 32.3% ★, 4X 20.1% ★, Historical 15.3%, Strategy 7.6%, Economy 6.8%
- #28 ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS XIV
80% matchMixed63% of 15,669 reviews2020
Dev: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 24.7 hrsMean: 110.3 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Triumph over the land, take charge of the fate of China! Conquer territories and fly your colors!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.7% ★, Historical 20.7%, War 14%, Character Customization 10.7%, Strategy 10%
Why You'll Like It: Its emphasis on officers, territory control, diplomacy, and classic historical power struggles makes it a decent fit for fans of courtly strategy and conquest.
- #29 Warsim: The Realm of Aslona
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 2,161 reviews2022
Dev: Huw Millward
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Warsim is a deep, rich text based kingdom ruling sim unlike anything else, complete with charming ASCII graphics. Navigate the millions of different procedurally generated races, events and areas with a huge emphasis on player choice. Don't let its look fool you, there is depth in every direction.
Why similar: Strategy 24.5%, Simulation 19.7%, RPG 19.5%, Medieval 13.3%, Sandbox 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: This is a rougher, text-heavy ruler simulator, but it delivers the same pleasure of shaping a kingdom through diplomacy, internal policy, and roleplayed decision-making.
- #30 Six Ages: Ride Like the Wind
78% matchVery Positive82% of 476 reviews2019
Dev: A SharpPub: Kitfox Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Life between myths. Lead the Riders clan into legend or obscurity as you explore an ancient world. Plan ahead as you navigate this challenging storybook strategy game, immersing you in the land of old gods and magic also seen in King of Dragon Pass.
Why similar: Management 28%, Strategy 21.5%, Choices Matter 18.8%, RPG 16.2%, Simulation 15.5%
Why You'll Like It: Like King of Dragon Pass, it focuses on ruling a clan through relationships, seasonal decisions, diplomacy, and emergent narrative rather than pure map conquest.
- #31 Age of History 3
75% matchVery Positive85% of 17,231 reviews2024
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 9.8 hrsMean: 36.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 34.8% ★, RTS 13.4%, Medieval 12.2%, Moddable 10.2% ★, Economy 10.1%
- #32 King of Dragon Pass
79% matchMostly Positive80% of 550 reviews2015
Dev: A SharpPub: HeroCraft PC
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.8 hrsMean: 9.9 hrs≥1hr: 95%
Create your own epic saga of survival, mythology and diplomacy! Rule your clan, make strategic decisions that affect the game world, win battles and expand your influence in this unique mix of RPG, strategy and story-telling.
Why similar: Strategy 32.1%, Medieval 29.9%, RPG 21.3%, Choices Matter 14.7%, Singleplayer 2%
Why You'll Like It: This classic clan simulator emphasizes marriage alliances, succession, council management, war, and event-driven leadership in a way many CK3 roleplayers will appreciate.
- #33 HUMANKIND™
77% 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 25.1% ★, 4X 21.1% ★, Historical 16.3%, Strategy 15.4%, Management 7.2%
- #34 Sid Meier's Civilization VII
76% 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 30% ★, 4X 17.9% ★, Historical 16.1%, War 9.5%, Economy 9%
- #35 Legend of Heroes: Three Kingdoms
73% matchVery Positive89% of 7,704 reviews2025
Dev: Free Wing
Windows
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 31.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
"Legend of Heroes: Three Kingdoms" is a single-player RPG where you shape the Three Kingdoms era. Choose to be a ruler, a loyal advisor, or a cunning mercenary. Marry, build homes, or train in martial arts. Restore peace through diplomacy or conquer with mighty armies.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 40.4% ★, Historical 17.9%, Strategy 13.3%, War 10.2%, Simulation 9.2%
- #36 Battle Brothers
75% matchVery Positive88% of 27,117 reviews2017
Dev: Overhype StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 93.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Lead a mercenary company in this tactical RPG set in a medieval fantasy world. Chase fame and fortune as you choose where to go, who to recruit, which contracts to pursue, and how to train and equip your men in a procedurally generated open world campaign.
Why similar: Historical 17.5%, Moddable 16.2% ★, Medieval 15.5%, War 11.6%, Character Customization 9%
- #37 Terra Invicta
72% 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: Grand Strategy 18.5% ★, 4X 12% ★, Real-Time with Pause 10.7% ★, Historical 10.5%, Moddable 8.4% ★
- #38 Millennia
74% 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 24.4% ★, 4X 16.9% ★, Historical 12.8%, Political 10.1% ★, War 7.8%
- #39 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 42.8% ★, Historical 16.1%, Real-Time with Pause 12.5% ★, Strategy 11.2%, War 4.8%
- #40 Anno 117: Pax Romana
73% matchMostly Positive70% of 11,270 reviews2025
Dev: Ubisoft MainzPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 23.5 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 15.1%, RTS 14%, Political 13.7% ★, Strategy 12.4%, Economy 11.1%
- #41 Age of History II
73% 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 30.7% ★, Historical 21.5%, Strategy 13%, War 12.8%, Political 10% ★
- #42 ENDLESS™ Legend 2
71% 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: Grand Strategy 21.9% ★, 4X 14.4% ★, Historical 12.2%, Moddable 9.5% ★, War 7.8%
- #43 Monarch : Medieval Remastered
71% matchVery Positive81% of 375 reviews2025
Dev: Mr.Lordy
Windows
In the medieval era, assume the role of a lord and engage with other lords,develop fiefdoms, and employ strategies involving intrigue, warfare, and plunder. Expand your territory and strengthen your house lineage Or, be a god, manipulate the world? This game primarily strategic role-playing elements
Why similar: Grand Strategy 24.7% ★, Historical 13.2%, Medieval 12.5%, Management 8.5%, Strategy 7.2%
- #44 House of Legacy
70% matchVery Positive83% of 3,616 reviews2025
Dev: S3 StudioPub: Thermite Games
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Step into the shoes of a fallen clan leader, starting with nothing but a crumbling estate and a handful of hopes, rising through careful planning, trade, and diplomacy to become one of the most powerful families in the land. Now it’s time to forge a legendary dynasty that leaves its mark on history.
Why similar: Political 20.7% ★, Real-Time with Pause 13.1% ★, Management 13%, Historical 12%, Sandbox 9.1%
- #45 Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
67% matchVery Positive94% of 176,175 reviews2025
Dev: Warhorse StudiosPub: Deep Silver
Windows
Median: 53.8 hrsMean: 73.3 hrs≥1hr: 95%
A thrilling story-driven action RPG, with a rich open world, set in 15th century Medieval Europe. Experience the ultimate medieval adventure - through the eyes of young Henry - as you embark on a journey of epic proportions.
Why similar: Medieval 33.2%, Political 22% ★, Historical 21.9%, RPG 13.8%, Choices Matter 6.9%
- #46 Crusader Kings Complete
74% matchMixed62% of 240 reviews2012
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 31%
Europe is in turmoil. The lands are fragmented into petty fiefs and the Emperor struggles with the Pope. At this very moment the Pope has declared that those who go to liberate the Holy Land will be freed of all sins. Gather prestige and piety and the world will whisper your name in awe.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 45.2% ★, Strategy 23.1%, Medieval 18.4%, Historical 13.3%
- #47 Medieval Dynasty
69% matchVery Positive91% of 49,970 reviews2021
Dev: Render CubePub: Toplitz Productions
Windows
Median: 11.7 hrsMean: 35.7 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Hunt, survive, build and lead in the harsh Middle Ages: Create your own Medieval Dynasty and ensure its long-lasting prosperity or die trying! Play alone or team up with friends to enjoy the ultimate medieval experience.
Why similar: Medieval 25.9%, Historical 21.6%, Management 14.6%, Sandbox 12.3%, Multiplayer 8.7%
- #48 Plebby Quest: The Crusades
70% matchVery Positive86% of 2,871 reviews2020
Dev: PiedPipers TeamPub: NEOWIZ
Windows
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 14.0 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Survive ambitious rulers dreaming of an empire, outsmart treacherous neighbors longing to burn your spoils, and navigate the religion’s predictably unreasonable demands; you need ask only one question as you build your legacy – “Will you burn them, or be burnt?”
Why similar: Grand Strategy 34.1% ★, Medieval 20.6%, Strategy 17.9%, RPG 10.5%, Simulation 10%
- #49 Kingdom Come: Deliverance
69% matchVery Positive84% of 178,391 reviews2018
Dev: Warhorse Studios
Windows
Median: 13.5 hrsMean: 47.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Story-driven open-world RPG that immerses you in an epic adventure in the Holy Roman Empire. Avenge your parents' death as you battle invading forces, go on game-changing quests, and make influential choices. Explore castles, forests, villages and other realistic settings in medieval Bohemia!
Why similar: Medieval 44.8%, Historical 30%, RPG 16.3%, Choices Matter 6.8%, Singleplayer 2.2%
- #50 For The Glory: A Europa Universalis Game
72% 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 22.2% ★, Historical 12.6%, 4X 12.5% ★, Moddable 6.6% ★, Strategy 6.4%
- #51 Medieval Legacy
68% matchVery Positive85% of 62 reviews2025
Dev: Ninetoplay
Windows
Start as a humble commoner and guide your family through generations in this family sim meets city builder. Climb the ranks of society to become the most influential family in the land. With wit, strategy, and a bit of luck, build your legacy - just try not to trip over your ambition!
Why similar: Historical 16.5%, Medieval 15.7%, Management 12%, Economy 11.4%, Life Sim 11.2%
- #52 Romance of the Three Kingdoms XIII
71% matchMixed58% of 7,530 reviews2016
Dev: KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD.
Windows
Median: 18.9 hrsMean: 116.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
"The ultimate depiction of the Three Kingdom. A heroic drama of a gathering of Legends. "With this as the concept behind Romance of the Three Kingdoms 13, we have compiled an experience that will immerse you even deeper into the world of the Three Kingdoms, with "human drama," seen through the interactions of the...
Why similar: Grand Strategy 31.1% ★, Historical 17.7%, RTS 13.8%, War 12.3%, Character Customization 9%
- #53 A Total War Saga: THRONES OF BRITANNIA
69% matchMostly Positive70% of 14,652 reviews2018
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 12.1 hrsMean: 31.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
From the multi-award-winning strategy series, A Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia combines huge real-time battles with engrossing turn-based campaign, set at a critical flashpoint in history. Anglo-Saxons, Gaelic clans and Viking settlers clash for control. What Kingdom will you build?
Why similar: Historical 22.1%, Grand Strategy 22% ★, Strategy 14.9%, Medieval 14%, RTS 13.3%
- #54 Knights of the Crusades
67% 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 31.9% ★, RTS 13.8%, 4X 12.9% ★, Medieval 12.2%, Sandbox 9.4%
- #55 Rebel Inc: Escalation
67% 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 26.1% ★, Real-Time with Pause 16.5% ★, Historical 15.1%, War 9.9%, RTS 9.8%
- #56 Heart of the Machine
64% 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: Grand Strategy 24.3% ★, 4X 14% ★, Historical 13.7%, Moddable 11.9% ★, Management 9%
- #57 Knights of Honor
68% matchVery Positive93% of 2,365 reviews2009
Dev: Black Sea Studios LtdPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 59%
As King, it is your duty to lead your people in their struggle to raise your kingdom from its humble beginnings to a position of power and prestige. War, diplomacy and a burgeoning economy are the means by which you increase your power and expand your influence.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 29.7% ★, Medieval 20.3%, Strategy 17.8%, Historical 12.1%, RTS 11.2%
- #58 Victoria I Complete
70% matchMixed70% of 266 reviews2010
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 24%
Carefully guide your nation from the era of absolute monarchies in the early 19th century, through expansion, colonization and social upheaval, to emerge as one of the great world powers by the dawn of the 20th century in Victoria Complete.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 44.6% ★, Strategy 21.9%, Real-Time with Pause 18.9% ★, Historical 14.6%
- #59 Anno 1800
66% matchVery Positive81% of 30,897 reviews2019
Dev: Ubisoft MainzPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 9.7 hrsMean: 39.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
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: Strategy 19.2%, Economy 18.2%, Simulation 10.7%, Historical 9.5%, RTS 9.3%
- #60 Mount & Blade: Warband
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 170,226 reviews2010
Dev: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.6 hrsMean: 120.3 hrs≥1hr: 92%
In a land torn asunder by incessant warfare, it is time to assemble your own band of hardened warriors and enter the fray. Lead your men into battle, expand your realm, and claim the ultimate prize: the throne of Calradia!
Why similar: Medieval 34.3%, Moddable 15.7% ★, Strategy 10.9%, Sandbox 10.4%, RPG 10.4%