- #1 Old World
97% matchVery Positive82% of 6,627 reviews2022
Dev: Mohawk GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 12.0 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 23.6% ★, Turn-Based 16.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 13.3%, Historical 10.5%, Grand Strategy 8.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: Designed by the lead designer of Civilization IV, this game offers a similar historical depth with a unique focus on character-driven leadership.
- #2 Sid Meier's Civilization® V
96% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 209,860 reviews2010
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 28.9 hrsMean: 124.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Create, discover, and download new player-created maps, scenarios, interfaces, and more!
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 26%, Turn-Based 17.9%, 4X 15.6% ★, Strategy 12.4%, Historical 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: This title refined the series' mechanics with a hexagonal grid and a more focused approach to city management and combat.
- #3 Sid Meier’s Civilization® VI
96% matchVery Positive86% of 375,082 reviews2016
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.2 hrsMean: 100.2 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: Turn-Based Strategy 21.4%, 4X 17% ★, Strategy 16.1%, Turn-Based 14.9%, Historical 11%
Why You'll Like It: The latest mainline entry introduces district-based city planning that adds a new layer of strategic complexity to the classic formula.
- #4 HUMANKIND™
95% matchMixed69% of 28,481 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 27.8% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 18.7%, Strategy 15.4%, Historical 11%, Turn-Based 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: This game allows players to combine different cultures across eras, offering a fresh take on the historical progression found in Civilization.
- #5 Millennia
94% matchMixed67% of 3,766 reviews2024
Dev: C Prompt GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 14.3 hrsMean: 35.3 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 26.9% ★, Turn-Based 17.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 15.9%, Historical 10.4%, Grand Strategy 9% ★
Why You'll Like It: A historical 4X game that features branching timelines and alternate history paths for a highly replayable experience.
- #6 Age of Wonders 4
93% matchVery Positive81% of 22,501 reviews2023
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 22.1 hrsMean: 60.5 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 35.1% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 20%, Strategy 12%, Grand Strategy 10.9% ★, Moddable 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines 4X empire management with deep fantasy role-playing and tactical turn-based combat.
- #7 ENDLESS Legend™
94% matchVery Positive83% of 19,012 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 33.6% ★, Turn-Based 23.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 17.6%, Strategy 17.2%, Multiplayer 3%
Why You'll Like It: A beautifully stylized fantasy 4X game with highly distinct faction mechanics that change how you interact with the map.
- #8 Sid Meier's Civilization VII
91% matchMixed49% of 56,374 reviews2025
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.5 hrsMean: 47.6 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 31.8% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 15.4%, Historical 14.5%, Grand Strategy 12.4% ★, Strategy 10.1%
Why You'll Like It: The newest iteration of the franchise, featuring modernized systems and a refined approach to historical eras.
- #9 Sid Meier's Civilization®: Beyond Earth™
92% matchMixed61% of 23,068 reviews2014
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 29.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Sid Meier’s Civilization: Beyond Earth is a new science-fiction-themed entry into the award winning Civilization series. As part of an expedition sent to find a home beyond Earth, lead your people into a new frontier, explore and colonize an alien planet and create a new civilization in space.
Why similar: 4X 26.4% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 24.7%, Turn-Based 19.6%, Strategy 15.4%, Grand Strategy 5.1% ★
Why You'll Like It: Built on the Civilization V engine, this sci-fi spin-off explores colonization on alien worlds with a tech-web system.
- #10 Galactic Civilizations III
91% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,380 reviews2015
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Build a civilization that will stand the test of time in the largest space-based strategy game ever! Choose from dozens of unique races and make a name for yourself across the galaxy through diplomacy, espionage, technological advances, and more.
Why similar: 4X 29.7% ★, Turn-Based 19.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 17%, Moddable 10.4%, Grand Strategy 9.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep sci-fi 4X experience with extensive ship customization and complex diplomatic systems.
- #11 Stellaris
89% matchVery Positive86% of 195,126 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.5 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 46.9% ★, Grand Strategy 17.8% ★, Strategy 16.3%, Moddable 8.3%, Multiplayer 4.6%
Why You'll Like It: While more grand-strategy focused, it offers an unparalleled sense of scale and exploration in a space-faring 4X setting.
- #12 Age of Wonders III
90% matchVery Positive80% of 12,787 reviews2014
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Age of Wonders III is the long anticipated sequel to the award-winning strategy series. Delivering a unique mix of Empire Building, Role Playing and Warfare, Age of Wonders III offers the ultimate in turn-based fantasy strategy for veterans of the series and new players alike!
Why similar: 4X 26.7% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 24.4%, Strategy 22.8%, Turn-Based 17.7%, Multiplayer 2.7%
Why You'll Like It: A classic turn-based 4X game that balances empire building with rewarding tactical hero-led battles.
- #13 Master of Orion
89% matchMostly Positive77% of 8,144 reviews2016
Dev: NGD StudiosPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 101.7 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 47.3% ★, Strategy 21.3%, Turn-Based 20.6%, Grand Strategy 2.9% ★, Classic 2.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: A faithful modern reimagining of the classic space 4X game that defined the genre alongside Civilization.
- #14 ENDLESS Space™ 2
88% matchVery Positive83% of 22,925 reviews2017
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 26.0 hrs≥1hr: 87%
ENDLESS Space™ 2 is a Strategic Space Opera, featuring the compelling “just one more turn” gameplay, set in the mysterious ENDLESS Universe™. As the leader of your civilization, will you impose your vision and build the greatest stellar empire?
Why similar: Strategy 80.5%, 4X 8.6% ★, Turn-Based 3.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 3.6%, Grand Strategy 1.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: A polished sci-fi 4X game that excels in asymmetric faction design and narrative-driven exploration.
- #15 Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
87% matchVery Positive95% of 15,707 reviews2014
Dev: SkyBox LabsPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 18.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Rise of Nations is back! Play the updated classic with full Steamworks integration and enhanced features!
Why similar: Strategy 38.5%, Classic 22.4% ★, Historical 21.1%, Multiplayer 8.3%, War 4%
Why You'll Like It: Blends the real-time strategy of Age of Empires with the grand-scale 4X mechanics of Civilization.
- #16 Shadow Empire
85% matchVery Positive84% of 1,906 reviews2020
Dev: VR DesignsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 72.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Shadow Empire is a deep turn-based 4X wargame with a unique blend of military focus, procedurally generated content and role-playing features. Players take the seat of the supreme ruler of a small nation, with the goal of reconquering a devastated planet.
Why similar: 4X 29.3% ★, Turn-Based 21.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.6%, Grand Strategy 9.7% ★, Strategy 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex, gritty 4X wargame that focuses on logistics, procedural generation, and deep simulation.
- #17 Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete
86% matchVery Positive89% of 7,701 reviews2006
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 20.0 hrs≥1hr: 33%
Sid Meier's Civilization III: Complete, the latest offering in the Sid Meier's Civilization III franchise, provides gaming fans with Sid Meier's Civilization III, the highly-addictive journey of discovery.
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 20.5%, 4X 20% ★, Turn-Based 17.5%, Strategy 15.9%, Historical 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: The direct predecessor to Civilization IV, offering a more stripped-back but equally challenging 4X experience.
- #18 Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 35,942 reviews2006
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 36.9 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Spanning the most turbulent era in Western history, your quest for territory and power takes you through Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and even onto the shores of the New World.
Why similar: Strategy 20.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 19.2%, Historical 16.1%, Turn-Based 11.2%, Grand Strategy 10.3% ★
Why You'll Like It: A historical strategy classic that balances empire management with large-scale medieval warfare.
- #19 Songs of Conquest
82% matchVery Positive86% of 13,416 reviews2024
Dev: LavapotionPub: Coffee Stain Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 11.3 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 51.3% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 29.7%, Strategy 15.2%, Tactical 3.8%
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based strategy game that captures the classic feel of empire building and hero progression with stunning pixel art.
- #20 Field of Glory: Kingdoms
82% matchVery Positive83% of 337 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: Strategy 47%, Historical 34.5%, Multiplayer 10.8%, Grand Strategy 7.6% ★
Why You'll Like It: Offers a deep historical grand strategy experience with a focus on dynasty management and turn-based warfare.
- #21 Sins of a Solar Empire II
79% matchVery Positive84% of 8,424 reviews2024
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 30.8 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 61.6% ★, Strategy 24.3%, Multiplayer 8.9%, Tactical 3.4%, Singleplayer 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time 4X game that captures the grand scale of space expansion and fleet management.
- #22 Galactic Civilizations® II: Ultimate Edition
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,705 reviews2011
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 44.3 hrs≥1hr: 39%
Get the complete GalCiv II saga including Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords, the expansion pack Dark Avatar, and the newest expansion pack Twilight of the Arnor!
Why similar: 4X 32.2% ★, Turn-Based 24.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 18.4%, Grand Strategy 11.1% ★, Strategy 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A highly regarded sci-fi 4X title known for its robust AI and deep diplomatic options.
- #23 Heroes of Might & Magic V
83% matchVery Positive88% of 4,244 reviews2008
Dev: NivalPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 25.9 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Witness the amazing evolution of the genre-defining strategy game as it becomes a next-generation phenomenon, melding classic deep fantasy with next-generation visuals and gameplay. In the renowned Might & Magic universe, demon swarms spread chaos over the land in a relentless assault.
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 37.1%, Turn-Based 25.5%, Strategy 23.1%, Classic 5.7% ★, Multiplayer 4.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on turn-based exploration and hero-led tactical combat, capturing the addictive 'just one more turn' loop.
- #24 Warlock - Master of the Arcane
81% matchVery Positive86% of 2,634 reviews2012
Dev: Ino-Co PlusPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
In a time of chaotic upheaval, the player takes the role of a great mage, a warlord vying for ultimate power.
Why similar: 4X 29.6% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 25.6%, Turn-Based 25.2%, Strategy 16.7%, Multiplayer 2.5%
Why You'll Like It: A fantasy-themed 4X game that plays very similarly to Civilization V but with magic and mythical creatures.
- #25 Zeus + Poseidon
80% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,937 reviews2016
Dev: Impressions GamesPub: Activision
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Zeus + Poseidon delivers hundreds of hours of gameplay in one game!
Why similar: Strategy 53.9%, Historical 21.1%, Classic 19.7% ★, Economy 1.8%, Simulation 1.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic city-builder that captures the charm and historical flavor of ancient civilization management.
- #26 Anno 1800
79% matchVery Positive81% of 31,581 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: Strategy 43.8%, Multiplayer 16.9%, Historical 14.9%, Economy 9.8%, Resource Management 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: While primarily a city-builder, its complex production chains and trade route management satisfy the same itch as 4X empire building.
- #27 Pandora: First Contact
81% matchMixed63% of 643 reviews2014
Dev: Proxy StudiosPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 41.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Pandora: First Contact is a science fiction 4X turn-based strategy game on a planetary scale. Our Earth has been exhausted and colonial attempts on other planetary bodies have been in vain. Finally, after decades of exploration, an interstellar probe has brought promise of a new world.
Why similar: 4X 43.7% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 20.9%, Strategy 18.1%, Turn-Based 12.5%, Multiplayer 3.2%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi 4X game that serves as a spiritual successor to older genre classics with a focus on planetary exploration.
- #28 Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword
78% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 5,006 reviews2007
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 45.0 hrs≥1hr: 68%
Sid Meier's Civilization IV®: Beyond the Sword is the second expansion pack for Civilization IV - the 2005 PC Game of the Year that has become a worldwide hit.
Why similar: 4X 26.3% ★, Turn-Based 19.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 19.5%, Strategy 14.7%, Historical 7.7%
- #29 Civilization IV®: Warlords
78% matchVery Positive90% of 544 reviews2007
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac
Median: 12 minMean: 8.5 hrs≥1hr: 34%
Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Warlords is the first expansion pack for the award-winning game that has become an instant world-wide hit. Paying homage to some of history's greatest military leaders, the expansion delivers six unique and interesting scenarios, giving players the chance to change the course of history with the help of their...
Why similar: 4X 30.2% ★, Turn-Based 24.9%, Strategy 20.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.8%, Historical 5.9%
- #30 Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization
77% matchVery Positive87% of 1,541 reviews2008
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac
Median: 30 minMean: 13.9 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization is the third offering in the award winning Civilization IV series. A re-imagining of the classic Colonization game Sid Meier created in 1994, Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization is a total conversion of the Civilization IV engine into a game experience in which players will lead a European...
Why similar: 4X 25.6% ★, Turn-Based 22.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 17.4%, Strategy 16.2%, Historical 10.5%
- #31 ENDLESS Space™ - Definitive Edition
76% matchVery Positive81% of 9,584 reviews2012
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
ENDLESS Space™ is a turn-based 4X strategy game, covering the space colonization age in the ENDLESS Universe™, where you can control every aspect of your civilization as you strive for galactic domination.
Why similar: 4X 37.6% ★, Strategy 21.6%, Turn-Based 18.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 15.4%, Multiplayer 2.5%
- #32 Age of Wonders
76% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,033 reviews2010
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Welcome to Age of Wonders, the authentic turn based fantasy strategy classic that started the hit series. Age of Wonders’ intimate atmosphere with painterly graphics still shines today. The game’s fully patched up, start building your fantasy empire today!
Why similar: 4X 22.7% ★, Turn-Based 21.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 20.4%, Strategy 20.2%, Classic 9.2% ★
- #33 Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri™ Planetary Pack
70% matchVery Positive90% of 592 reviews2024
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: Electronic Arts
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri™ Planetary Pack includes the original Alpha Centauri and the expansion, Alien Crossfire.
Why similar: 4X 55.3% ★, Strategy 18.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 17%, Multiplayer 7.8%, Singleplayer 1.4%
- #34 Total War: ROME REMASTERED
72% matchMostly Positive77% of 13,458 reviews2021
Dev: Creative AssemblyPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 39.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Total War: ROME REMASTERED lets you relive the legacy that defined the award-winning strategy game series. Remastered to 4K with multiple improvements to visuals as well as refinements to gameplay, it’s time to revisit a true classic. Not everyone gets a second chance to conquer the Roman Empire.
Why similar: 4X 31.7% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 20.1%, Strategy 15.4%, Grand Strategy 13.3% ★, Historical 12.5%
- #35 Field of Glory: Empires
73% matchVery Positive82% of 864 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 22.3% ★, Turn-Based 19.5%, Strategy 14%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.4%, Historical 11.1%
- #36 Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition
73% matchVery Positive91% of 37,693 reviews2009
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 44.0 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Command the seas, control the land, forge a new nation, and conquer the globe.
Why similar: Strategy 25.3%, Historical 22.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 17.1%, Grand Strategy 12.6% ★, Turn-Based 10.4%
- #37 Space Empires IV Deluxe
75% matchVery Positive86% of 289 reviews2006
Dev: Malfador MachinationsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 10.9 hrs≥1hr: 37%
The award-winning Space Empires IV Deluxe is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. A grand strategy title in the space 4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate) genre, Space Empires has already found a place in the heart of strategy gamers everywhere.
Why similar: 4X 49% ★, Strategy 22%, Turn-Based 16%, Turn-Based Strategy 12.7%, Singleplayer 0.3%
- #38 Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne
75% matchVery Positive83% of 402 reviews2010
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 18.9 hrs≥1hr: 45%
Age of Wonders II is the wildly anticipated sequel to the award-winning strategy phenomenon. Delivering an invigorating mix of Empire Building, Role-playing, and Warfare, Age of Wonders II brings s turn-based strategy to new heights.
Why similar: Strategy 26.3%, Turn-Based 25.8%, 4X 22.2% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 20.6%, Classic 4.7% ★
- #39 Age of Wonders Shadow Magic
74% matchVery Positive89% of 640 reviews2010
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Age of Wonders: Shadow Magic is the third entry in the award winning fantasy strategy series. This fan-favorite enhances the series' praised fusion of empire building, role-playing and tactical combat with the eerie Shadow World and battle with races never before seen, across new and diverse landscapes.
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 25.5%, 4X 23.1% ★, Turn-Based 22.6%, Strategy 18.4%, Classic 6.3% ★
- #40 Medieval: Total War™ - Collection
74% matchMostly Positive71% of 2,427 reviews2015
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 17.4 hrs≥1hr: 51%
MEDIEVAL: Total War™ - Collection Edition is the compilation of the critically-acclaimed Medieval: Total War and its official expansion pack - Viking Invasion.
Why similar: Strategy 33.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 18.5%, Historical 18.2%, Turn-Based 13.3%, Classic 8.5% ★
- #41 Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era
63% matchVery Positive88% of 19,213 reviews2026
Dev: UnfrozenPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 18.0 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 22.8% ★, Turn-Based 16.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 14.5%, Historical 9.9%, Strategy 8.2%
- #42 Oriental Empires
72% 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 28.7% ★, Turn-Based 22.9%, Strategy 14.2%, Historical 13.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.2%
- #43 Fantasy General II
71% matchVery Positive81% of 1,958 reviews2019
Dev: Owned by GravityPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 11.2 hrs≥1hr: 58%
The fantasy wargaming classic is back! Lead powerful heroes and mighty armies into battle in this critically acclaimed turn-based strategy milestone. Level up and train your units and guide them through a gripping story campaign to decide the fate of a world on the brink of destruction.
Why similar: Turn-Based 23%, Turn-Based Strategy 21%, 4X 19.8% ★, Strategy 15.9%, Grand Strategy 7% ★
- #44 Medieval II: Total War™ Kingdoms
73% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 630 reviews2007
Dev: The Creative AssemblyPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms is the official expansion to last year's award-winning Medieval II: Total War, presenting players with all-new territories to explore, troops to command, and enemies to conquer.
Why similar: Strategy 26.3%, Historical 17.4%, Turn-Based 13.5%, Grand Strategy 12.3% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 11.1%
- #45 Sid Meier's Colonization (Classic)
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,122 reviews2014
Dev: MicroProse Software, IncPub: Atari
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 18.8 hrs≥1hr: 55%
The New World lies before you with all its peril, promise and infinite possibility. Your colonists anxiously follow you to shore. The treasures of an entire continent await you.
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 31.2%, 4X 24.8% ★, Classic 15.4% ★, Strategy 15.2%, Historical 8.7%
- #46 Galactic Civilizations IV
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,465 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 22.1 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 35.6% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 18.8%, Grand Strategy 13.1% ★, Strategy 11.2%, Moddable 11.1%
- #47 Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition
66% matchVery Positive86% of 93,653 reviews2021
Dev: World's EdgePub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 14.3 hrsMean: 76.8 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 43.3%, Historical 22.7%, Multiplayer 13%, War 8.3%, Resource Management 6.4%
- #48 Total War: NAPOLEON – Definitive Edition
70% matchVery Positive92% of 27,212 reviews2010
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 32.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Complete your Total War collection with this Definitive Edition of Total War: NAPOLEON, which includes all DLC and feature updates since the game’s release
Why similar: Historical 24.1%, Strategy 24.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 15.9%, Grand Strategy 11.5% ★, Turn-Based 10.2%
- #49 Frozen Synapse
70% matchVery Positive83% of 2,620 reviews2011
Dev: Mode 7
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Brings the simultaneous turn-based strategy genre up-to-date and lets you give detailed, accurate orders to your squad.
Why similar: Turn-Based 47.2%, Strategy 21.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 14.5%, Great Soundtrack 5.2%, Multiplayer 4.6%
- #50 Rome: Total War™ - Alexander
71% matchMostly Positive76% of 912 reviews2007
Dev: The Creative AssemblyPub: SEGA
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 39%
Rome: Total War - Alexander is the second official expansion pack to Rome: Total War. An entirely new campaign map that stretches from Macedonia to Greece and into the heart of the ancient Persian Empire New campaign game that tasks players with matching the exploits of Alexander the Great as he swept across Central Asia and dominated...
Why similar: Strategy 34.1%, Historical 18%, Turn-Based 16.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 15.7%, Grand Strategy 9.1% ★
- #51 Age of Wonders: Planetfall
67% matchMostly Positive80% of 6,620 reviews2019
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Age of Wonders: Planetfall is the new strategy game from Triumph Studios, creators of the critically acclaimed Age of Wonders series, bringing all the exciting tactical turn-based combat and in-depth empire building of its predecessors to space in an all-new, sci-fi setting.
Why similar: 4X 30.2% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 25.2%, Turn-Based 19.5%, Strategy 14%, Multiplayer 3.3%
- #52 Dominions 4: Thrones of Ascension
68% matchVery Positive91% of 1,451 reviews2013
Dev: Illwinter Game Design
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 48.1 hrs≥1hr: 65%
You are a God! You are master and ruler of a loyal nation. You have unimaginable powers at your disposal. You have claimed this world as yours. But there are others who stand in your way. You must defeat and destroy these pretenders. Only then can you ascend to godhood and become the new Pantokrator.
Why similar: Turn-Based Strategy 24.7%, Strategy 16.4%, 4X 16.1% ★, Turn-Based 15.8%, Grand Strategy 11.2% ★
- #53 Europa Universalis III Complete
69% matchVery Positive83% of 1,993 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 31.6% ★, Historical 30.5%, Strategy 27.1%, Addictive 5.9% ★, Multiplayer 2.6%
- #54 Star Ruler
69% matchVery Positive83% of 340 reviews2010
Dev: Blind Mind Studios
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Take command of a vast interstellar empire and safeguard your species from total extinction in a procedurally generated 3D galaxy (with the option to flatten it) from 1 System to 10,000+! Prove your species' ingenuity through a deep and intricate combat system where anything (from individual components on ships to the stars themselves)...
Why similar: 4X 57.4% ★, Strategy 30.5%, Grand Strategy 9.5% ★, Great Soundtrack 2.2%, Singleplayer 0.4%
- #55 Imperiums: Greek Wars
65% matchVery Positive86% of 543 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 30.2% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 16.9%, Historical 12.7%, Grand Strategy 10.2% ★, Moddable 8.8%
- #56 SimCity™ 4 Deluxe Edition
67% matchVery Positive82% of 9,741 reviews2010
Dev: EA - MaxisPub: Electronic Arts
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 54%
SimCity 4 Deluxe Edition includes the bestselling SimCity 4 and the all-new SimCity 4 Rush Hour Expansion Pack. Create the most massive region of cities ever, with a farming town, bedroom community, high-tech commercial center, and industrial backbone.
Why similar: Strategy 36.3%, Moddable 17.6%, Classic 13.7% ★, Economy 11.5%, Multiplayer 8.1%
- #57 Aggressors: Ancient Rome
67% matchVery Positive83% of 280 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 30.9% ★, Strategy 15.4%, Historical 14.3%, Turn-Based 11.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.4%
- #58 Revival: Recolonization
62% matchMixed69% of 424 reviews2024
Dev: HeroCraft PC
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 12.3 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 29.8% ★, Turn-Based 21.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 17.1%, Grand Strategy 10.3% ★, Strategy 9%