- #1 Twilight Struggle
97% matchVery Positive87% of 2,936 reviews2016
Dev: Playdek, Inc.
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Twilight Struggle is a two-player game where players play as either the US or USSR during the Cold War. Using actual events from history, players must plan out their strategies in order to obtain world dominance. Play Twilight Struggle and change the course of history.
Why similar: Cold War 29.8% ★, Political Sim 19.8% ★, Historical 9%, Diplomacy 7.4% ★, Strategy 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: This definitive board game adaptation perfectly captures the global tug-of-war and brinkmanship of the Cold War era.
- #2 Terminal Conflict
96% matchMixed70% of 69 reviews2020
Dev: Strategy Mill
Windows · Mac · Linux
Touch the world with your fingertips! Your retro terminal awaits your command, for the balance of power, in this definitive Cold War strategy game. Here you belong; assert your leadership through turn based strategic tit-for-tat, on the brink of mutually assured destruction. Don't let it slip away!
Why similar: Cold War 28.7% ★, Political Sim 21.7% ★, Politics 13.1% ★, Strategy 6.8%, Board Game 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a deep simulation of the Cold War standoff with a heavy focus on diplomatic tension and nuclear deterrence.
- #3 Crisis in the Kremlin
96% matchVery Positive84% of 1,444 reviews2017
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 9.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Don’t let the Soviet Union collapse, and fall in the darkness of history or lead the Union by a new path – democracy and free market! But before you decide something, think – wouldn’t it cause more harm than good?
Why similar: Political Sim 41.8% ★, Cold War 14.1% ★, Strategy 11.1%, Politics 9.8% ★, Diplomacy 8.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: It provides a complex political simulation of the Soviet Union, requiring players to balance internal stability with external geopolitical pressure.
- #4 Sigma Theory: Global Cold War
95% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,375 reviews2019
Dev: Mi-Clos StudioPub: Goblinz Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 63%
A Turn-based Strategy game in a futuristic global cold war from the award-winning creators of Out There. Recruit a squad of special agents and run your intel agency to secure the control of the singularity.
Why similar: Political Sim 38.4% ★, Politics 29.4% ★, War 9%, Strategy 7.5%, Tactical 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: This game excels at simulating the espionage and diplomatic maneuvering required to secure technological dominance during the Cold War.
- #5 Rebel Inc: Escalation
94% 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: Diplomacy 24.1% ★, Alternate History 16.7%, War 12.6%, Historical 12.2%, Strategy 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on the complexities of proxy wars and stabilizing regions through a mix of military and political intervention.
- #6 Phantom Doctrine
93% matchMostly Positive74% of 4,637 reviews2018
Dev: CreativeForge GamesPub: Good Shepherd Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.5 hrsMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The year is 1983. The world teeters on the verge of destruction as the Cold War tightens its icy grip. East or West: trust no one, question everything. The fate of humanity rests in your hands as you pit spy versus spy in tactical Phantom Doctrine.
Why similar: Cold War 56.6% ★, Strategy 15.8%, Tactical 8.9%, Great Soundtrack 5%, Turn-Based Strategy 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical turn-based game that captures the clandestine, paranoid atmosphere of Cold War intelligence operations.
- #7 Suzerain
91% 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 Sim 43.9% ★, Politics 34.5% ★, Alternate History 20.2%, Singleplayer 1.4%
Why You'll Like It: While set in a fictional world, it provides a masterclass in political decision-making, diplomacy, and managing national stability.
- #8 DEFCON
92% matchVery Positive87% of 4,287 reviews2006
Dev: Introversion Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 15.4 hrs≥1hr: 37%
Inspired by the 1983 cult classic film, Wargames, DEFCON superbly evokes the tension, paranoia and suspicion of the Cold War era, playing on the fascinating aspects of psychological gameplay that occur during strategic nuclear warfare.
Why similar: Cold War 36.7% ★, Diplomacy 24.2% ★, Tactical 13.4%, Strategy 8.8%, Wargame 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game focuses entirely on the terrifying mechanics of nuclear war and the strategic management of global destruction.
- #9 Ostalgie: The Berlin Wall
91% matchVery Positive93% of 722 reviews2018
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 13.9 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The confrontation between the East and the West is coming to an end, but not between East and West Germany. The old party leaders are still sitting in their offices, not changing anything and waiting for exclamations from Moscow. But their end is close – Gorbachev and Kohl have already decided...
Why similar: Cold War 22.6% ★, Political Sim 21% ★, Politics 15.2% ★, Diplomacy 12.9% ★, Alternate History 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a granular look at the political management of Eastern Bloc nations during the collapse of the Soviet sphere.
- #10 Möbius Front '83
90% matchMixed69% of 496 reviews2020
Dev: Zachtronics
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 10.2 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Defend America from an alternate-universe America using state-of-the-art 1980s military hardware in this intricate and tactical turn-based strategy game.
Why similar: Cold War 38.8% ★, Alternate History 16%, War 11.3%, Tactical 8.1%, Wargame 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical wargame set in an alternate history 1980s that captures the aesthetic and strategic feel of the era.
- #11 SGS NATO's Nightmare
89% matchMostly Positive72% of 112 reviews2023
Dev: Strategy Game StudioPub: Avalon Digital
Windows · Mac
What if the Warsaw Pact had attacked NATO in the mid-1980s. Or the other way around? Study this titanic conflict, within its most emblematic theater, Germany and Central Europe. Will you be able to achieve your goals without escalating into an uncontrollable nuclear conflict?
Why similar: Political Sim 30.2% ★, Cold War 23.7% ★, Strategy 9.8%, Alternate History 8.5%, Wargame 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A detailed wargame that simulates the potential for a conventional Cold War conflict escalating into a wider war in Europe.
- #12 ICBM
89% matchVery Positive92% of 1,897 reviews2020
Dev: SoftWarWarePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 76%
ICBM is a real-time strategy game of nuclear destruction. Research new technologies, build up your nuclear stockpile and use a combination of ships, planes and missiles to strike at the heart of your opponents’ cities while keeping your population safe from harm.
Why similar: Cold War 55.6% ★, War 15.4%, Strategy 12%, Tactical 11%, Military 6%
Why You'll Like It: This title focuses on the strategic management of nuclear arsenals and the logistics of global nuclear warfare.
- #13 1953: NATO vs Warsaw Pact
87% matchMixed48% of 179 reviews2025
Dev: Wastelands InteractivePub: Conglomerate 5
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 18.7 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Cold War turns hot in 1953: massive hex strategy with nukes, supply, and sabotage.
Why similar: Cold War 37.3% ★, Diplomacy 12.6% ★, Strategy 11.7%, War 9.2%, Wargame 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: A strategic wargame that explores the early Cold War tensions and the potential for direct military confrontation.
- #14 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: Political Sim 37.7% ★, Politics 23.4% ★, Strategy 19.7%, Simulation 11.6%, Indie 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A grand strategy game that emphasizes modern diplomacy, economic management, and political influence.
- #15 Democracy 4
86% matchVery Positive82% of 6,264 reviews2022
Dev: Positech Games
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Democracy 4 lets you take the role of President / Prime minister, govern the country (choosing its policies, laws and other actions), and both transform the country as you see fit, while trying to retain enough popularity to get re-elected...
Why similar: Political Sim 33.3% ★, Politics 27.7% ★, Diplomacy 21% ★, Strategy 9.1%, Simulation 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A deep political simulation that forces players to balance policy decisions with public opinion and economic reality.
- #16 Age of History II
85% 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: Political Sim 19.7% ★, Historical 13%, Diplomacy 12.6% ★, Strategy 12.5%, War 12.2%
Why You'll Like It: A grand strategy game that allows for extensive control over historical map borders and diplomatic relations.
- #17 Arms Race - TCWE
86% matchMixed70% of 69 reviews2017
Dev: Alina Digital
Windows
Arms Race - TCWE is PC strategy game based on the historical conflict between the USA and the USSR
Why similar: Political Sim 27.5% ★, Cold War 24% ★, Diplomacy 12.4% ★, Strategy 10.8%, Alternate History 7%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on the economic and political competition between superpowers during the Cold War era.
- #18 First Strike
84% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,985 reviews2017
Dev: Blindflug Studios AG
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
FIRST STRIKE is a fast paced real time strategy game where you play one of the twelve biggest nuclear superpowers of the world – from known superpowers like the USA to an upstart hellraiser like North Korea – and try to be the last one remaining when the whole world blows to smithereens.
Why similar: Cold War 34.3% ★, Diplomacy 19.8% ★, War 10.9%, Strategy 8.5%, Tactical 7%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced strategy game that simplifies the mechanics of nuclear escalation into a tense, high-stakes experience.
- #19 Secret Government
84% matchMixed53% of 298 reviews2021
Dev: GameTrekPub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Global strategy game about secret societies. You’ll lead the Brotherhood - an organization that juggles the whole world. The key feature of the game is the manipulation of powers. Instead of giving direct orders, the Brotherhood provokes countries into doing what the Brothers want.
Why similar: Political Sim 30.9% ★, Politics 25.3% ★, Alternate History 13.1%, Strategy 9.2%, Historical 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: It focuses on the shadow-side of politics, where players manipulate global events and regimes from behind the scenes.
- #20 Cold Waters
82% matchVery Positive87% of 4,665 reviews2017
Dev: Killerfish Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 22.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Spiritual Successor to the Microprose Classic “Red Storm Rising”.
Why similar: Cold War 49.5% ★, Strategy 13.1%, Simulation 10.3%, War 9.2%, Tactical 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: An immersive naval simulation that captures the tension of Cold War submarine warfare and the constant threat of detection.
- #21 Millennia
81% 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: Diplomacy 20% ★, 4X 15.5% ★, Alternate History 14.3%, Historical 9.7%, War 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: A 4X strategy game that allows players to explore alternate history paths and manage the evolution of their civilization.
- #22 Hearts of Iron IV
80% 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: Strategy 17%, Diplomacy 16.1% ★, Alternate History 15.8%, War 15.6%, Historical 14.8%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for grand strategy, offering unparalleled depth in managing military and political logistics during the mid-20th century.
- #23 Supreme Ruler Ultimate
82% 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: Political Sim 20.4% ★, Cold War 15.3% ★, Politics 13% ★, Alternate History 9.2%, Tactical 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A comprehensive grand strategy simulation that covers the entire modern era, including the Cold War.
- #24 Rogue State Revolution
81% matchMostly Positive77% of 531 reviews2021
Dev: LRDGames, Inc.Pub: Modern Wolf
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.9 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: Diplomacy 24.9% ★, 4X 17.8% ★, War 12.4%, Historical 12.4%, Strategy 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A political management game where you must navigate the challenges of ruling a rogue nation on the global stage.
- #25 Maestro's Cold War 2
78% matchVery Positive98% of 117 reviews2025
Dev: Maestro CinetikPub: Gaming at work
Windows · Mac · Linux
Addictive yet chill. An immersive Cold War sandbox. Revive the Cold War in this classic strategy game—easy to pick up, yet challenging and deep, offering endless replayability.
Why similar: Cold War 32.5% ★, Political Sim 25.2% ★, Politics 9.1% ★, Historical 8.2%, Strategy 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A political and strategic simulation that focuses on the specific challenges of the Cold War era.
- #26 US and THEM
83% matchMostly Negative34% of 109 reviews2014
Dev: Icehole GamesPub: Conglomerate 5
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Lead the CIA or KGB in a turn-based global strategy. Influence nations, run covert ops, and win the Cold War without firing a shot.
Why similar: Cold War 31.3% ★, Strategy 12.3%, Diplomacy 10% ★, Politics 9.8% ★, Political Sim 8.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based strategy game that focuses on the ideological and military conflicts of the Cold War.
- #27 Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War
78% 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: Cold War 22.3% ★, Political Sim 20.8% ★, Politics 16.9% ★, Diplomacy 10.8% ★, Alternate History 10.4%
- #28 Kiloton
77% matchVery Positive97% of 105 reviews2025
Dev: Jack MorehartPub: spacemann's games
Windows · Mac
A sardonic take on nationalism and the Cold War though a minimalist and fast paced RTS. Scheme your way through a highly replayable campaign, or conduct some "diplomacy" on your "friends" in multiplayer.
Why similar: Cold War 29.1% ★, Diplomacy 26.4% ★, Political Sim 13% ★, Tactical 7.9%, Wargame 7%
- #29 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: Diplomacy 26.9% ★, Cold War 17.5% ★, Alternate History 17.4%, Strategy 11%, War 9.3%
- #30 4th Generation Warfare
79% matchMixed56% of 163 reviews2022
Dev: Eversim
Windows
As the leader of a nation, dispatch and control your team of characters all around the world to destabilize your enemies and establish your supremacy. All methods are fair game: hacking, sabotage, political interference, military strikes, corruption, treachery, assassinations, data theft…
Why similar: Diplomacy 23% ★, Political Sim 22% ★, Politics 19.3% ★, 4X 13.2% ★, Strategy 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A modern tactical game that incorporates diplomacy and unconventional warfare into its strategic framework.
- #31 Lux Alliance
79% matchMostly Positive78% of 76 reviews2017
Dev: Sillysoft Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.8 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Lux Alliance is a synchronized-turns strategy war game, inspired by the classic boardgames RISK, Diplomacy and Axis & Allies. Marshall your troops, collaborate with your allies, anticipate your opponents, and capture all the enemy HQs to win!
Why similar: Diplomacy 27.4% ★, Strategy 23.5%, War 12.1%, Historical 10.8%, Board Game 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A strategy game that emphasizes territory control and diplomatic maneuvering in a simplified, accessible format.
- #32 Mr. President
76% matchVery Positive80% of 86 reviews2026
Dev: Exia Labs
Windows · Mac
Can you face the challenges of the Oval Office? Find out in Mr. President, a sandbox simulation of the U.S. presidency. Pursue your legislative agenda. Compete with rivals Russia and China. Deal with crises from 9/11 to COVID-19; and direct the U.S. military against terror groups and rogue states.
Why similar: Political Sim 27.4% ★, Diplomacy 20.7% ★, Historical 10.1%, Strategy 8.1%, Board Game 6.4%
- #33 Old World
75% 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 21.6% ★, 4X 13.9% ★, Alternate History 11.6%, Historical 10.1%, War 9.9%
- #34 Realpolitiks
77% matchMixed62% of 1,232 reviews2017
Dev: Jujubee S.A.Pub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Become the leader of any contemporary country in this streamlined real-time grand strategy game. Use diplomacy, espionage, military and economic power to deal with other nations, while tackling issues such as terrorism, financial crises and medical epidemics, all in an effort to achieve global domination!
Why similar: Political Sim 27.6% ★, Diplomacy 26.1% ★, Politics 21.3% ★, Strategy 14.6%, Historical 5.6%
- #35 WARNO
72% matchVery Positive81% of 14,911 reviews2024
Dev: Eugen Systems
Windows
Median: 15.4 hrsMean: 69.2 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Realistic, immersive, breathtaking. WARNO is the ultimate World War III battle simulator from the masters of strategy, Eugen Systems. A Cold War turns decisively hot as you command hundreds of units on a beautiful and brutal battlefield. Outsmart, outfight, and lead your forces to total victory.
Why similar: Cold War 37.2% ★, War 11.5%, Historical 9.6%, Strategy 9.2%, Wargame 8.4%
- #36 Regiments
73% matchVery Positive87% of 2,812 reviews2022
Dev: Bird's Eye GamesPub: MicroProse Software
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Regiments is a Real-Time Tactics game set in Germany 1989. The Cold War has gone hot, and the inferno is raging. Lead your Regiment through the fires of conflict and the fog of war. Break through the lines, call in artillery, maneuver, feign retreats, stage defenses, counter-attack. Do not relent.
Why similar: Cold War 39.2% ★, Alternate History 14.7%, War 10.5%, Strategy 10.3%, Tactical 8.5%
- #37 Rogue State
76% matchMostly Positive76% of 255 reviews2015
Dev: LRDGames, Inc.
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 6.0 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Assume control of a Middle Eastern country recovering from a violent revolution. Forge alliances, grow your economy, invade your neighbors, or pacify your population. Rogue State is a geopolitical strategy game that will force you to always stay one step ahead of your rivals to survive.
Why similar: Political Sim 60.8% ★, Strategy 20.6%, Simulation 13.1%, Indie 5.6%
- #38 SUPREMACY: WORLD WAR 3
74% 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: Politics 25.2% ★, Diplomacy 24.3% ★, Strategy 17.1%, Alternate History 11.6%, Wargame 9.7%
- #39 Imperator: Rome
74% 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: Political Sim 37.6% ★, Strategy 19.7%, Historical 14.6%, Politics 10% ★, Simulation 8%
- #40 Bonaparte - A Mechanized Revolution
70% matchMostly Positive79% of 100 reviews2025
Dev: Studio Imugi
Windows
1789, Paris. Take Napoleon’s place in an alternate history as Céline or César Bonaparte in this ideology driven, turn-based strategy journey. Defend, reform or oppose the monarchy and write your own alternative history by combining cunning political skills and tactical military prowess.
Why similar: Political Sim 22.3% ★, Politics 17.7% ★, Alternate History 12%, 4X 10.6% ★, Historical 8.5%
- #41 Hearts of Iron III
73% 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: Strategy 29.3%, Historical 26.5%, War 12.4%, Simulation 9.2%, Military 6.1%
- #42 Victoria II
72% 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: Political Sim 27.8% ★, Politics 22% ★, Historical 11.7%, Strategy 9.9%, Diplomacy 8.2% ★
- #43 The Emperor and State
71% 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 21.7% ★, Politics 21.4% ★, Alternate History 13.6%, Historical 10.1%, War 8.8%
- #44 Terra Invicta
67% 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 22.6% ★, 4X 14.2% ★, Alternate History 13.1%, War 10.3%, Historical 10.2%
- #45 Nations
68% 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: Political Sim 25.6% ★, Diplomacy 17.1% ★, Historical 15.7%, Strategy 15.1%, Alternate History 11.3%
- #46 Cuban Missile Crisis
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 286 reviews2015
Dev: G5 SoftwarePub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 17.4 hrs≥1hr: 50%
Cuban Missile Crisis is a real-time strategy game combined with a global turn-based tactical mode, thrusting gamers into a world ravaged by the military-political confrontation between the USA and USSR in 1962.
Why similar: Strategy 51%, Cold War 49% ★
- #47 AfterWar
70% matchMostly Positive73% of 141 reviews2023
Dev: Dmytro Lumen
Windows
AfterWar is a strategy about the world in 2028
Why similar: Political Sim 28.2% ★, Politics 21.9% ★, Diplomacy 16.6% ★, Alternate History 12.5%, Strategy 8.8%
- #48 Collapse: A Political Simulator
71% matchMixed65% of 189 reviews2021
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 7.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
is a grand strategy game that takes place in 1992-2004. You take lead of your own Party in the face of the total devastation of one of the fictional post-Soviet states in Europe. Try to realize your (or someone else's) political dreams in the shaky arena of this dilapidated situation.
Why similar: Political Sim 33.6% ★, Politics 25.3% ★, Alternate History 15.2%, Historical 10.7%, Strategy 8.2%
- #49 World Warfare & Economics
70% 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: Political Sim 25.4% ★, Diplomacy 17.1% ★, Politics 15.9% ★, 4X 11.7% ★, War 7.8%
- #50 Armchair Commander
69% matchVery Positive89% of 98 reviews2023
Dev: Zack SimaPub: Indie War Games
Windows · Mac
A turn-based strategy game where you can experience WWII campaigns and explore alternate history scenarios made by the community.
Why similar: Cold War 29.7% ★, Diplomacy 19.9% ★, Alternate History 13.6%, Historical 10.2%, Strategy 8.7%
- #51 Fate of the World
71% matchMostly Positive78% of 448 reviews2011
Dev: Red RedemptionPub: Soothsayer Games
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 37%
Fate of the World is a dramatic global strategy game that puts all our futures in your hands. The game features a dramatic set of scenarios based on the latest science covering the next two centuries. You must manage a balancing act of protecting the Earth’s resources and climate versus the needs of an ever-growing world population, who...
Why similar: Political Sim 53.7% ★, Politics 18.8% ★, Strategy 15.4%, Simulation 9%, Indie 2.5%
- #52 Solar Nations 2
66% matchVery Positive90% of 71 reviews2025
Dev: Flomgus Games
Windows
In this Grand Strategy game, you take control of the Solar System's Great Powers in 2092 and weather the storm of change as you navigate the uncertain waters of the future. Control the greatest military forces in the world and wage wars on an epic scale: outer space is yours to conquer!
Why similar: Political Sim 23.4% ★, Politics 16.4% ★, 4X 13.6% ★, Alternate History 10.7%, Strategy 8.4%
- #53 ENDLESS™ Legend 2
64% 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 21.6% ★, 4X 14.1% ★, Alternate History 11.4%, War 9.9%, Historical 9.8%
- #54 We. The Revolution
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,370 reviews2019
Dev: PolyslashPub: Valkyrie Initiative
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
As a judge of the Revolutionary Tribunal, preside over complicated cases of ordinary citizens, dangerous criminals, and enemies of the revolution in revolutionary Paris. Make judgments, plot political intrigue, and try to not lose your own head!
Why similar: Political Sim 54.7% ★, Historical 20.6%, Strategy 13.6%, Simulation 9.2%, Singleplayer 1.9%
- #55 Trade Conquest
66% matchMostly Positive70% of 71 reviews2024
Dev: GrandPaw Games
Windows
Rise from a cunning strategist to a powerful ruler. Master economic warfare, manipulate global events, and build industries or armies to conquer the world. Every decision in this modern Grand Strategy game shapes your ascent to power—will you rise through wealth or force?
Why similar: Political Sim 27.7% ★, Politics 21.5% ★, Diplomacy 20.8% ★, 4X 9.9% ★, Historical 6.4%
- #56 Making History: The First World War
69% 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 15.4% ★, Alternate History 15.2%, Historical 14.6%, Strategy 13.3%, War 10.7%
- #57 Supreme Ruler 2030
67% 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: Diplomacy 22.1% ★, Politics 21.8% ★, War 14%, Tactical 10.6%, Strategy 8.6%
- #58 Supreme Ruler 1936
69% 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: Politics 26.5% ★, Historical 15.2%, War 14.5%, Strategy 12.9%, Wargame 8.1%
- #59 Strategic Mind: The Pacific
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 620 reviews2019
Dev: Starni Games
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Strategic Mind: The Pacific is a turn-based strategy set in the WW2 period depicting the war between the USA and the Empire of Japan waged in the Pacific Ocean with mindblowing historical accuracy and attention to detail. Two Sides. Two Commanders. Two Destinies.
Why similar: Alternate History 19.9%, War 16.4%, Board Game 15%, Historical 14.3%, Strategy 10.8%