- #1 Supreme Ruler Ultimate
97% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,250 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.4 hrsMean: 50.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Real-Time Strategy/Wargame. From World War II through the Cold War and into the future, re-live or re-imagine the tensions and crises of our recent history! Guide your nation through the era of your choice in Campaigns, Scenarios, and Sandboxes, as you make every effort to become Supreme Ruler!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 13.9% ★, Modern 12.3%, Wargame 11.7%, Military 9.6%, Real-Time with Pause 9.5% ★
Why You'll Like It: This is the definitive collection of the Supreme Ruler engine, combining all eras into one comprehensive grand strategy experience.
- #2 Supreme Ruler 2030
96% matchMixed64% of 544 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: Political 11.5% ★, Grand Strategy 11.1% ★, Wargame 10.3%, Politics 10% ★, Modern 8%
Why You'll Like It: The most modern iteration in the series, featuring updated mechanics and a contemporary global political landscape.
- #3 Terra Invicta
95% matchVery Positive81% of 9,264 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 51.9 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 19.3% ★, Real-Time with Pause 12.6% ★, Military 12.5%, War 11.2%, Tactical 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A deeply complex geopolitical strategy game that requires managing global factions and economic resources in the face of an extraterrestrial threat.
- #4 Command: Modern Operations
94% matchVery Positive85% of 1,597 reviews2019
Dev: Command Development TeamPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 33.9 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Command: Modern Operations is the next generation in cross-domain modern wargaming. It enables you to simulate every military engagement from post World War II to the present day and beyond. The scale is primarily tactical/operational, although strategic scale operations are also possible.
Why similar: Military 25.3%, Wargame 21%, Modern 14.7%, RTS 10.1%, Simulation 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for modern military simulation, offering unparalleled depth in naval, air, and ground warfare logistics.
- #5 Supreme Ruler 1936
94% matchMostly Positive74% of 303 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Real-Time Strategy Game. Guide your nation through the most violent era in modern history. Play massive campaigns as one of the principal nations, set-piece scenarios of famous battles, or set your own victory condition and play as any nation in the world in Sandbox mode.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 16.3% ★, Politics 14% ★, Wargame 13.2%, Military 9.6%, War 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: Applies the signature Supreme Ruler simulation mechanics to the historical context of the Second World War.
- #6 SuperPower 2 Steam Edition
93% matchMostly Positive79% of 2,847 reviews2014
Dev: GolemLabsPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 87.2 hrs≥1hr: 65%
SuperPower 2 is the only global geopolitical simulation game which allows players to control entire countries. Players control countries in 3 major areas: political, economic and military, but this time, in a beautiful real-time 3D environment.
Why similar: Politics 27.4% ★, Grand Strategy 20.8% ★, Political Sim 19.5% ★, War 9%, Strategy 7.8%
Why You'll Like It: A classic geopolitical simulator that allows for granular control over a nation's economy, military, and diplomatic relations.
- #7 Shadow Empire
92% matchVery Positive84% of 1,875 reviews2020
Dev: VR DesignsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 70.1 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: Grand Strategy 19.9% ★, Wargame 19.1%, Hex Grid 13.7% ★, War 12%, Tactical 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex wargame that emphasizes logistics, supply chains, and administrative management in a procedurally generated world.
- #8 Hearts of Iron IV
91% matchVery Positive90% of 365,658 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 31.0 hrsMean: 296.4 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 27.2% ★, Military 15.5%, War 14.9%, Real-Time with Pause 9.5% ★, Strategy 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: The premier grand strategy wargame that offers deep control over military production, political policy, and front-line management.
- #9 Victoria 3
91% matchMostly Positive70% of 59,549 reviews2022
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 14.7 hrsMean: 116.7 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 19.3% ★, Politics 16.9% ★, Political 11.7% ★, Political Sim 9% ★, Real-Time with Pause 8.9% ★
Why You'll Like It: Provides an incredibly detailed economic and political simulation that mirrors the societal management aspects found in the Supreme Ruler series.
- #10 Power & Revolution 2023 Edition
90% matchMixed58% of 632 reviews2023
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
The latest edition of the ultrarealistic world simulator where you play as the Head of State or as the opposition! New Additions: dive deeper into the war in the Ukraine with artillery, trenches, mines, troop morale, etc; detailed immigration management; the justice system; and children.
Why similar: Politics 29.5% ★, Wargame 23.7%, Political Sim 15.1% ★, Management 11.5%, RTS 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A hyper-focused political simulator that allows you to manage the internal and external affairs of any modern nation.
- #11 Victoria II
89% matchVery Positive92% of 19,943 reviews2010
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 49.2 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 27.5% ★, Politics 19.4% ★, Real-Time with Pause 9.3% ★, Political Sim 9% ★, Military 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A classic grand strategy title known for its deep economic simulation and complex political systems.
- #12 Rule the Waves 3
89% matchVery Positive88% of 1,046 reviews2023
Dev: Naval Warfare SimulationsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 10.6 hrsMean: 58.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Rule the Waves III is a simulation of naval ship design and construction, fleet management and naval warfare from 1890 to 1970.
Why similar: Wargame 38.5%, Military 29.4%, Management 13.1%, Strategy 8.9%, Simulation 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers an extremely detailed look at naval military and industrial development, perfect for players who enjoy the technical side of wargaming.
- #13 ICBM: Escalation
87% matchVery Positive88% of 1,325 reviews2024
Dev: SoftWarWarePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 15.4 hrs≥1hr: 81%
ICBM: Escalation is a grand RTS where you command armies, develop cutting-edge tech, and wield devastating weapons. Conquer enemies with conventional forces or nuclear firepower. With new modes like Standoff and Conquest, the game offers deep strategic layers in a global warfare setting.
Why similar: Wargame 20.6%, Grand Strategy 20.5% ★, RTS 11.3%, Modern 10.6%, Military 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses specifically on the nuclear wargame aspect, emphasizing global strategic planning and missile defense.
- #14 Realpolitiks II
88% matchMixed46% of 667 reviews2021
Dev: Jujubee S.A.Pub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Lead your people to glory and write a new chapter of history in Realpolitiks II, a real-time grand strategy game where you lead any contemporary nation in an attempt to secure world dominance.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25.3% ★, Politics 20.1% ★, Political 14.6% ★, Political Sim 11.9% ★, Strategy 10%
Why You'll Like It: A modern grand strategy game that focuses on the complexities of international relations and global political maneuvering.
- #15 WARNO
85% matchMostly Positive80% of 15,442 reviews2024
Dev: Eugen Systems
Windows
Median: 15.7 hrsMean: 70.4 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: Wargame 25.6%, Military 19.3%, RTS 13.6%, War 13%, Tactical 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical modern warfare simulation that captures the intensity and scale of Cold War-era combat.
- #16 World Warfare & Economics
86% matchMixed61% of 677 reviews2023
Dev: Okron Studio
Windows · Mac
Take control of any nation and shape its future. Manage resources, trade, and taxes, engage in real-time warfare, navigate global diplomacy, and react to dynamic world events. Build a thriving economy, forge alliances, and command armies in a constantly evolving world!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 15.6% ★, Politics 13.8% ★, Political 12.3% ★, Military 9.5%, Political Sim 8.1% ★
Why You'll Like It: A modern-day strategy game that attempts to balance global economic management with military conflict.
- #17 Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic
83% matchVery Positive91% of 25,891 reviews2024
Dev: 3DivisionPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.4 hrsMean: 73.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Build a soviet republic from an impoverished country into a rich industrial superpower in a city builder with intricate production chains and a fully simulated global economy. Manage the lives of your citizens from education to work and party loyalty to criminal activity.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 37.7% ★, Management 19.8%, Moddable 14.7% ★, Strategy 9.9%, Sandbox 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a deep economic and infrastructure simulation that appeals to players who enjoy the management side of Supreme Ruler.
- #18 Espiocracy
86% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Ex Vivo StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Espiocracy is an espionage grand strategy game where you lead the intelligence agency of one of 74 playable countries. Rewrite history from the shadows as you influence ideologies, stage coups, and wage proxy wars. Subterfuge takes center stage as you establish a new world order.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 19.5% ★, Real-Time with Pause 14.8% ★, Military 13.9%, War 11.8%, Tactical 10.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the intelligence and clandestine side of global geopolitics, offering a unique perspective on international conflict.
- #19 First Strike
84% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,001 reviews2017
Dev: Blindflug Studios AG
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 10.4 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: Modern 15.2%, Wargame 15.1%, Political 14% ★, Military 11%, War 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: A fast-paced strategy game focused on the global escalation of nuclear conflict.
- #20 Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War
82% matchVery Positive81% of 669 reviews2025
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 30.2 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: Politics 30.3% ★, Grand Strategy 22.6% ★, Political 21% ★, Political Sim 13.8% ★, Strategy 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A political simulation that tasks players with managing the Soviet Union through the turbulent years of the Cold War.
- #21 Sigma Theory: Global Cold War
84% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,381 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: Politics 21.1% ★, Grand Strategy 14.4% ★, Political 13.1% ★, Political Sim 10.2% ★, Management 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based strategy game that blends espionage, technology, and geopolitical maneuvering.
- #22 DEFCON
81% matchVery Positive87% of 4,308 reviews2006
Dev: Introversion Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 36 minMean: 15.8 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: Wargame 20.8%, Tactical 20.3%, Military 17%, RTS 12.2%, Management 11.5%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the high-stakes nuclear tension and global strategic planning inherent in the Cold War setting.
- #23 Carrier Command 2
79% matchVery Positive82% of 3,688 reviews2021
Dev: GeometaPub: MicroProse Software
Windows · Mac
Median: 9.4 hrsMean: 15.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Carrier Command 2 is the real-time strategy game that puts you in command of a futuristic carrier capable of deploying a vast array of aircraft and amphibious units. Compete against AI or human players and hop into every single vehicle to take matters into your own hands!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.7% ★, Wargame 19.6%, War 14%, Military 13.1%, RTS 12.5%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical military simulation that focuses on the management of modern naval assets and remote-controlled warfare.
- #24 Masters of the World - Geopolitical Simulator 3
82% matchMixed45% of 610 reviews2014
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
Discover the industry standard for geopolitical simulation of today’s world!In Masters of the World, the third incarnation of Geopolitical Simulator, play as the head of state of one or more countries and expand your influence across the globe.
Why similar: Politics 29% ★, Political Sim 22.6% ★, Political 19.2% ★, Grand Strategy 16.7% ★, Simulation 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A detailed political management game that allows for significant control over domestic and foreign policy.
- #25 Trade Conquest
79% matchMostly Positive71% of 72 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: Politics 16% ★, Grand Strategy 15.3% ★, Wargame 12.2%, Modern 11.2%, Real-Time with Pause 11.1% ★
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on the economic management and resource trade aspects of global strategy games.
- #26 Act of War: Direct Action
81% matchVery Positive91% of 614 reviews2008
Dev: Eugen SystemsPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Tomorrow's War Is NOW Ripped from today's headlines, Act of War: Direct Action™ is a frightening tale of suspense, international intrigue and geopolitical military conflict. This real-time strategy experience puts you squarely in control of counterterrorist forces and delivers a first look at tomorrow's war.
Why similar: RTS 27.6%, Political 16.6% ★, Military 15.4%, Politics 13.6% ★, War 11.9%
Why You'll Like It: A modern-day RTS that focuses on military tactics and the use of advanced technology in warfare.
- #27 Steel Division 2
78% matchMostly Positive79% of 9,492 reviews2019
Dev: Eugen Systems
Windows
Median: 9.7 hrsMean: 52.2 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Steel Division 2 is a historically-accurate WW2 real-time strategy game set on the Eastern Front. Features 1:1-scale turn-based army management and real-time tactical battles with thousands of men at your order.
Why similar: Military 13.3%, Grand Strategy 13% ★, Wargame 12.2%, RTS 11.5%, War 9.5%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical wargame that offers a high level of historical accuracy and unit-level management.
- #28 Geo-Political Simulator 2026 Edition
78% matchMixed51% of 237 reviews2025
Dev: Eversim
Windows
The latest expansion of the ultra-realistic world simulator, where you play as the head of state or the opposition! New Features: tourism simulator, party strategies with regime censures, personal wealth management, a European army, AI and robotics.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 16.3% ★, Wargame 13.7%, Political 10.4% ★, Politics 9.2% ★, Political Sim 8.3% ★
- #29 Shattered Union
80% matchMixed53% of 168 reviews2006
Dev: PopTopPub: 2K
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 2.9 hrs≥1hr: 33%
Following a great increase in terrorism, internal strife and ultimately, the nuclear destruction of Washington, D.C., the United States shatters into a half-dozen nation-states that descend into war. Take the helm of one of these newfound sovereignties (or the 'peacekeeping' European Expeditionary Force) and struggle to reunify America...
Why similar: Strategy 100%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical wargame set in a modern, alternate-history United States that emphasizes unit management and territorial control.
- #30 Power & Revolution 2020 Edition
76% matchMixed62% of 850 reviews2020
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
The new version of Geopolitical Simulator 4, the ultrarealistic simulator of today's world where you play as the head of state or as the opposition! Stop the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and restart the economy, participate in the US elections or engage in lightning wars with new 2020 scenarios.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 19.6% ★, Wargame 15.8%, Modern 12.4%, Military 10.6%, Management 10.3%
- #31 Europa Universalis: Rome - Gold Edition
77% matchMixed67% of 239 reviews2008
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 18.7 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Europa Universalis Rome Gold combines the epic strategy title Europa Universalis Rome with the expansion pack Vae Victis. Experience one of the most defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 55.3% ★, Real-Time with Pause 21.8% ★, Strategy 19.3%, Simulation 3.7%
- #32 Power & Revolution 2021 Edition
75% matchMixed56% of 836 reviews2021
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
A new expansion of the ultra-realistic simulator of today's world where you play as the head of state or as the opposition! New Features for 2021: administration of the EU, Covid vaccinations, Biden's Challenge, political coalitions, diplomatic negotiations, worldwide tax and free-trade agreements.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 17.9% ★, Wargame 15.6%, Politics 15.1% ★, RTS 9.4%, Political Sim 9.3% ★
- #33 Rebel Inc: Escalation
72% matchVery Positive82% of 7,279 reviews2021
Dev: Ndemic CreationsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 13.2 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 17% ★, Real-Time with Pause 11.2% ★, Military 11.2%, War 10%, Tactical 9.6%
- #34 Realpolitiks
75% matchMixed62% of 1,237 reviews2017
Dev: Jujubee S.A.Pub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 6.9 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: Politics 34.7% ★, Grand Strategy 28.3% ★, Political Sim 16.5% ★, Strategy 14%, War 3.6%
- #35 SuperPower 3
76% matchOverwhelmingly Negative10% of 1,213 reviews2022
Dev: GolemLabsPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
SuperPower 3 is a modern geopolitical sim in a planet Earth setup. Rule the world or challenge your knowledge about demography, economics, military strategy, as well as political issues across the globe. Compete with or against other players, or just try to do better than the real-life politicians.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 14.4% ★, Wargame 12.7%, Politics 12.2% ★, Political 9.6% ★, Modern 9.4%
- #36 Geo-Political Simulator 5
73% matchMostly Negative33% of 702 reviews2024
Dev: Eversim
Windows
The new 5th edition of the hyperrealistic global simulator game where you play as the Head of State or as the opposition or the president of a large multinational company, with a completely redesigned interface, a new ultra-detailed map, complete control of companies and new scenarios for 2024.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 15.6% ★, Wargame 13.5%, Political 11.4% ★, Politics 8.8% ★, RTS 8.2%
- #37 Power & Revolution 2022 Edition
73% matchMixed59% of 964 reviews2022
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
New edition of the ultrarealistic simulator of today's world where you play as the head of state or as the opposition! Major developments: the war in the Ukraine and all of its consequences, conspiracy theories, fake news, interference by secret services, animal welfare and climate objectives.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 18.2% ★, Wargame 15%, Politics 13.1% ★, Political Sim 9.3% ★, RTS 9%
- #38 Cuban Missile Crisis
74% matchMostly Positive75% of 289 reviews2015
Dev: G5 SoftwarePub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 17.2 hrs≥1hr: 49%
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 55.2%, RTS 44.8%
- #39 Hearts of Iron 2 Complete
74% matchVery Positive86% of 660 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 17.8 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Includes Hearts of Iron II plus the two expansions, Doomsday and Armageddon When Germany is defeated in 1945, the Allies and the new Soviet alliance fight for supremacy. World War III is drawing closer. Play as the ruler of one of 175 countries through World Wars II and III.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 65.5% ★, Strategy 25.9%, RTS 8.6%
- #40 Europa Universalis IV
71% matchVery Positive88% of 136,424 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 280.3 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 19.4% ★, Political 15.4% ★, Wargame 14.2%, Real-Time with Pause 12% ★, Military 11.2%
- #41 Hearts of Iron III
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 6,058 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 20.4 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 39% ★, Real-Time with Pause 12.9% ★, Military 12.3%, Strategy 8.6%, War 7%
- #42 Solar Nations 2
69% matchVery Positive88% of 263 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: Grand Strategy 18.1% ★, Politics 13.1% ★, Wargame 12.8%, Military 10.8%, Real-Time with Pause 9.1% ★
- #43 Darkest Hour: A Hearts of Iron Game
71% matchVery Positive90% of 2,078 reviews2011
Dev: Martin IvanovPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 26.9 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Developed by a team of experienced modders from the Paradox forum, Darkest Hour is a stand-alone Hearts of Iron game. The game features a mixture of short and in-depth campaigns set across the darkest chapters of the 20th century. Play from the outbreak of the Great War up until the onset of the Cold War.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 37.6% ★, Wargame 18.1%, Strategy 10.9%, Military 9.6%, RTS 6.1%
- #44 Imperator: Rome
70% matchMixed66% of 26,807 reviews2019
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 37.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Dominate the classical Mediterranean in Imperator: Rome, a grand strategy game from Paradox Interactive. Navigate the dangerous waters of politics and diplomacy as you build up your provinces and conquer foreign lands. Now available with special content and the digital artbook.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 32.8% ★, Political 13.2% ★, Political Sim 11.5% ★, Strategy 9.8%, Politics 8.3% ★
- #45 World War III: Black Gold
72% matchMixed63% of 911 reviews2013
Dev: Reality PumpPub: Topware Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Actual Armies. Actual Weapons. Actual Political Issues.World War III - Black Gold takes the player to the near future. The political crisis has been going on for months, leading to worldwide turmoil. A secret conference of the UN Central Geological Commission reveals that worldwide oil reserves have reached dangerously low levels: Oil...
Why similar: Strategy 81%, RTS 9.4%, War 6.9%, Multiplayer 2.2%, Singleplayer 0.5%
- #46 Fleet Command
71% matchVery Positive88% of 480 reviews2006
Dev: SonalystsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 47%
International waterways become theaters of war when the world's most formidable maritime powers exchange their fatal blows. With entire fleets at your command, you must strategically deploy vessels from every class - frigate to aircraft to nuclear submarine - to maintain the precarious balance of naval power and gain position for the...
Why similar: Wargame 45.3%, RTS 21.8%, Military 15%, War 9.6%, Strategy 6.8%
- #47 4th Generation Warfare
70% 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: Politics 18.3% ★, Political 17.4% ★, Grand Strategy 16.6% ★, Wargame 16.5%, RTS 10.2%
- #48 AfterWar
68% matchMostly Positive73% of 143 reviews2023
Dev: Dmytro Lumen
Windows
AfterWar is a strategy about the world in 2028
Why similar: Grand Strategy 16% ★, Politics 14.1% ★, Modern 14%, Political 13.2% ★, War 8.9%
- #49 SUPREMACY: WORLD WAR 3
69% matchMostly Positive75% of 5,896 reviews2018
Dev: Dorado Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 35.8 hrs≥1hr: 60%
This Long Term Strategy Game lets you take control of the armed forces of your nation. Become responsible for its military expansion, technological research and economic development. Form alliances and wage total war for global dominance on the battlefields of World War 3.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 27% ★, Wargame 26.7%, Politics 22.9% ★, RTS 10.6%, Strategy 9.1%
- #50 Realpolitiks 3: Earth and Beyond
68% matchMostly Negative38% of 289 reviews2025
Dev: JujubeePub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Prove your political brilliance in a grand strategy like no other: pick any contemporary country, set up your government and navigate the pitfalls of domestic and international politics. A glorious destiny awaits - the domination of not just the Earth, but the whole Solar system!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 19.9% ★, Political 19.5% ★, Politics 18.3% ★, Modern 9.2%, Wargame 7.2%
- #51 Warfare
69% matchVery Positive86% of 246 reviews2009
Dev: GFI RussiaPub: Game Factory Interactive
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 10.7 hrs≥1hr: 25%
Saudi Arabia, one of the world's leading oil suppliers and a key U.S. ally, has been taken over by a highly organized group of radical terrorists. The government is in a state of collapse and turmoil and you have been chosen to lead the United States' armed forces to restore control.
Why similar: RTS 52.5%, Strategy 47.5%
- #52 Crusader Kings Complete
70% matchMixed61% of 243 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 70.1% ★, Strategy 29.9%
- #53 Sudden Strike 2 Gold
67% matchVery Positive86% of 343 reviews2017
Dev: FireglowPub: Kalypso Media Digital
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 37%
At the height of World War 2, take command of German, Russian, British, American and Imperial Japanese armies on battelfields across the globe. Sudden Strike 2 expands on all aspects of the classic RTS game with new units, maps and epic campaigns.
Why similar: RTS 55.5%, Strategy 44.5%
- #54 Crisis in the Kremlin
67% matchVery Positive84% of 1,451 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 29.9% ★, Politics 19.1% ★, Grand Strategy 14.7% ★, Political 13.5% ★, Strategy 12.8%
- #55 Galactic Civilizations® II: Ultimate Edition
68% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,703 reviews2011
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 44.0 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: Grand Strategy 53.5% ★, Strategy 12.1%, Top-Down 11.1%, Moddable 7.4% ★, Management 6.7%
- #56 Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,159 reviews2011
Dev: Gas Powered GamesPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 49.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The last days of man are at hand.. Two years after the Infinite War the once great warring nations now lie in ruins, and humanity’s hope for a brighter future is nothing but a bitter memory. A new, seemingly unstoppable enemy, supported by the zealots of The Order, now seeks to eradicate mankind: UEF, Aeon Loyalist, and Cybran alike.
Why similar: RTS 30.6%, Grand Strategy 22% ★, Strategy 14.1%, Real-Time with Pause 11.2% ★, Moddable 9.5% ★
- #57 Europa Universalis III Complete
67% 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 38.9% ★, Political Sim 14.6% ★, Political 13.8% ★, Real-Time with Pause 12.7% ★, Strategy 8.5%
- #58 The Guild II Renaissance
67% matchVery Positive83% of 3,997 reviews2010
Dev: Runeforge Game StudioPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 18.0 hrs≥1hr: 67%
For centuries Europe has been dominated by the church and nobility. On the shoulders of ordinary people the servants of god and the noble families justified their power and wealth. This was the incontrovertible, divine world order. A truly dark era… In the 14th Century the world order is beginning to transform itself.
Why similar: Politics 34% ★, Strategy 14.7%, Management 13.6%, Simulation 11.9%, Political Sim 10.1% ★
