- #1 Victoria 3
97% matchMostly Positive70% of 61,281 reviews2022
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 14.4 hrsMean: 120.9 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 24.5%, Political Sim 15.5% ★, Historical 10%, Real-Time with Pause 9.7% ★, World War I 7.1% ★
Why You'll Like It: The direct successor to Victoria II, offering a modernized and deeply detailed economic and political simulation.
- #2 Europa Universalis IV
96% matchVery Positive88% of 137,440 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 284.1 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 29.3%, Real-Time with Pause 14.4% ★, Historical 13.2%, Economy 7.2%, Diplomacy 6.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for Paradox grand strategy, offering unparalleled depth in diplomacy, trade, and historical nation-building.
- #3 Hearts of Iron IV
96% matchVery Positive90% of 377,300 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30.7 hrsMean: 301.4 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 36.9%, Historical 14.7%, Real-Time with Pause 10.2% ★, Strategy 8%, Military 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Offers deep industrial and military management, focusing on the global conflict that defines the end of the Victoria era.
- #4 Anno 1800
95% matchVery Positive81% of 32,498 reviews2019
Dev: Ubisoft MainzPub: Ubisoft
Windows
Median: 9.8 hrsMean: 40.8 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: Economy 30.3%, Strategy 21.6%, Historical 14.7%, Simulation 9.5%, RTS 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the industrialization, trade, and colonial expansion of the 19th century with a focus on complex supply chains.
- #5 Imperator: Rome
94% matchMixed66% of 26,916 reviews2019
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 37.8 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 41.7%, Political Sim 19.8% ★, Historical 13.9%, Strategy 8.7%, Economy 4%
Why You'll Like It: Combines grand strategy with detailed population, culture, and political mechanics in a historical setting.
- #6 Crusader Kings III
94% matchVery Positive90% of 143,901 reviews2020
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 29.1 hrsMean: 151.2 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Love, fight, scheme, and claim greatness. Determine your noble house’s legacy in the sprawling grand strategy of Crusader Kings III. Death is only the beginning as you guide your dynasty’s bloodline in the rich and larger-than-life simulation of the Middle Ages.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.7%, Historical 15.4%, Real-Time with Pause 10.9% ★, Strategy 8%, Economy 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: Features complex political and character-driven simulation that mirrors the internal power struggles found in Victoria II.
- #7 Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic
92% matchVery Positive91% of 27,451 reviews2024
Dev: 3DivisionPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 71.7 hrs≥1hr: 76%
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 35.9%, Historical 16.5%, Economy 11%, Diplomacy 7.7% ★, Strategy 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: An incredibly deep economic and infrastructure simulator that rewards the kind of meticulous planning required in Victoria II.
- #8 Grand Tactician: The Civil War (1861-1865)
93% matchMostly Positive75% of 2,413 reviews2021
Dev: Grand Engineer Corps
Windows
Median: 9.9 hrsMean: 96.4 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Take command of the Union or the Confederacy. Prepare your nation for war, recruit and organize great armies and fleets under legendary commanders like Grant, Lee, Jackson or Farragut, plan cunning maneuvers on an epic campaign map and defeat your enemies in real-time battles!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 41.7%, Historical 25.8%, Strategy 18.2%, War 7.2%, RTS 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a highly detailed look at 19th-century logistics, military mobilization, and the political pressures of the era.
- #9 Terra Invicta
91% matchVery Positive80% of 9,948 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 53.5 hrs≥1hr: 79%
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 26.7%, Real-Time with Pause 13.7% ★, Historical 11.8%, Economy 8%, Diplomacy 7% ★
Why You'll Like It: A complex geopolitical simulation that requires long-term strategic planning and management of global resources.
- #10 Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition
91% matchVery Positive91% of 38,185 reviews2009
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 44.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Command the seas, control the land, forge a new nation, and conquer the globe.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 38.4%, Historical 24.8%, Strategy 13.6%, Military 10.6%, War 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the colonial era, global trade routes, and the military evolution of the 18th and 19th centuries.
- #11 Democracy 4
90% matchVery Positive82% of 6,409 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 31.5% ★, Grand Strategy 31.2%, Economy 12.1%, Diplomacy 9.3% ★, Strategy 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: A deep dive into the mechanics of government, policy-making, and the political consequences of economic decisions.
- #12 Total War: NAPOLEON – Definitive Edition
89% matchVery Positive92% of 27,685 reviews2010
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 32.4 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: Grand Strategy 36.4%, Historical 27.4%, Strategy 13.4%, War 6.7%, Military 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a tactical and strategic look at the early 19th century, focusing on the military conflicts of the Napoleonic era.
- #13 Supreme Ruler Ultimate
89% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,255 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.3 hrsMean: 51.1 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 29.2%, Real-Time with Pause 15.9% ★, Political Sim 14.3% ★, Military 7%, Historical 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a massive scale of geopolitical and economic management that spans from the mid-20th century to the near future.
- #14 Age of History 3
87% matchVery Positive85% of 18,912 reviews2024
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 10.2 hrsMean: 38.5 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Grand strategy wargame where the destiny of Civilizations rests in your hands - will they stand united under your leadership or fall divided in conflict? Journey through the entire saga of human civilization, from its earliest days to the futuristic era, crafting your legacy age by age.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 37%, World War I 15.6% ★, Economy 9.1%, Diplomacy 8.8% ★, Strategy 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A global strategy game that emphasizes historical progression and the management of large-scale empires.
- #15 Darkest Hour: A Hearts of Iron Game
88% matchVery Positive87% of 2,159 reviews2011
Dev: Martin IvanovPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 26.8 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 46.3%, Historical 15.3%, World War I 14.6% ★, Strategy 9.5%, Military 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Known for its historical depth and complex military simulation, capturing the tension of the early 20th century.
- #16 Suzerain
86% matchVery Positive92% of 11,925 reviews2020
Dev: Torpor Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 18.5 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 75.6% ★, Alternate History 18%, Simulation 4.8%, Singleplayer 1.6%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-heavy political simulation that forces players to navigate complex economic and diplomatic crises.
- #17 Crusader Kings II
86% matchVery Positive91% of 73,960 reviews2012
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 55.9 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Explore one of the defining periods in world history in an experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 56%, Political Sim 15.8% ★, Historical 10.6%, Strategy 4.5%, Real-Time with Pause 4.5% ★
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly deep historical simulation with complex political intrigue and dynastic management.
- #18 Old World
85% matchVery Positive82% of 6,919 reviews2022
Dev: Mohawk GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 11.9 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Old World is a revolutionary new historical strategy game where you lead your dynasty over generations of rule against rival kings and queens. Wage massive wars, manage your court, and build a dynasty — or watch your empire crumble to dust. What legacy will you leave behind?
Why similar: Grand Strategy 31.5%, Historical 14.4%, Economy 8.6%, Diplomacy 7.6% ★, Military 6%
Why You'll Like It: Blends historical grand strategy with character-driven decision-making and a focus on long-term nation-building.
- #19 Stellaris
83% matchVery Positive86% of 197,307 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 145.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 47.8%, Real-Time with Pause 14.1% ★, Strategy 7.8%, Diplomacy 5.9% ★, Sandbox 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: Applies the Paradox grand strategy formula to a sci-fi setting, featuring deep population and empire management.
- #20 Realpolitiks II
84% matchMixed46% of 668 reviews2021
Dev: Jujubee S.A.Pub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 14.4 hrs≥1hr: 83%
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 48.8%, Political Sim 30.6% ★, Strategy 13.5%, Simulation 6.9%, Singleplayer 0.2%
Why You'll Like It: A modern geopolitical simulator that balances military, economic, and diplomatic layers in a global context.
- #21 Europa Universalis III Complete
84% matchVery Positive78% of 2,141 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 11.3 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 41.9%, Political Sim 21.2% ★, Historical 14.5%, Real-Time with Pause 10.9% ★, Strategy 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic foundation for the grand strategy genre, offering a deep look at historical diplomacy and statecraft.
- #22 Capitalism 2
82% matchVery Positive83% of 579 reviews2017
Dev: Enlight Software LimitedPub: Enlight Software Limited
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Create and control the business empire of your dreams. This in-depth strategy game covers almost every aspect of business that could be encountered in the real world.
Why similar: Economy 49.4%, Strategy 19.5%, Simulation 13%, Management 12%, RTS 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic, deep economic simulation that focuses on market dynamics, production, and corporate strategy.
- #23 Supreme Ruler 1936
82% matchMostly Positive73% of 309 reviews2014
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 12.6 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 34%, Historical 15%, Real-Time with Pause 14.5% ★, Military 6.9%, Strategy 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a detailed military and economic simulation of the pre-WWII era with a focus on global strategy.
- #24 Manor Lords
78% matchVery Positive84% of 92,096 reviews2024
Dev: Slavic MagicPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 23.7 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Manor Lords is a medieval strategy game featuring in-depth city building, large-scale tactical battles, and complex economic and social simulations. Rule your lands as a medieval lord – the seasons pass, the weather changes, and cities rise and fall.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 34.2%, Historical 15.9%, Economy 10.5%, Diplomacy 9.4% ★, Moddable 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines city-building with economic and logistical management in a historical setting that demands careful resource allocation.
- #25 Field of Glory: Empires
81% matchVery Positive82% of 869 reviews2019
Dev: AgeodPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 30.1 hrs≥1hr: 57%
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: Grand Strategy 45.6%, Historical 19.6%, Strategy 12.3%, Military 8.2%, War 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: A historical grand strategy game that focuses on the rise and fall of civilizations through internal stability and expansion.
- #26 Ultimate Admiral: Dreadnoughts
80% matchMixed61% of 8,005 reviews2023
Dev: Game-Labs
Windows
Median: 15.7 hrsMean: 81.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Design warships the way you want them, command fleets, win the naval arms race for your nation!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 36.3%, World War I 19.4% ★, Historical 13.4%, Military 8.6%, Economy 6.7%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the naval arms race and the industrial capacity required to maintain a global power in the late 19th century.
- #27 Power & Revolution
81% matchMixed56% of 1,297 reviews2016
Dev: Eversim
Windows · Mac
In Power & Revolution, become a Head of State of one or several countries of your choice and extend your influence on the world, or play as a legal or illegal opposition leader and get ready for the conquest to power!
Why similar: Political Sim 49.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.3%, Economy 10.9%, Strategy 9.9%, Simulation 5.3%
Why You'll Like It: A highly detailed political and economic simulation that allows for deep control over modern national policies.
- #28 Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
79% matchVery Positive95% of 15,915 reviews2014
Dev: SkyBox LabsPub: Xbox Game Studios
Windows
Median: 5.7 hrsMean: 18.4 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Rise of Nations is back! Play the updated classic with full Steamworks integration and enhanced features!
Why similar: Historical 29.8%, Strategy 26.8%, RTS 20.9%, War 9.2%, Simulation 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic strategy game that covers the breadth of human history with a focus on resource management and technological advancement.
- #29 Europa Universalis V
76% matchMixed67% of 30,806 reviews2025
Dev: Paradox TintoPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 53.1 hrsMean: 124.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Use war, trade or diplomacy to satisfy your grandest ambitions and dominate five centuries of history in the newest version of Europa Universalis, Paradox Interactive's flagship historical grand strategy game.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 38%, Historical 17.1%, Economy 11.2%, Diplomacy 9.8% ★, War 6.3%
- #30 Making History: The Great War
79% matchMostly Positive76% of 455 reviews2015
Dev: Muzzy Lane SoftwarePub: Factus Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 12.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
The Great War is a turn-based grand strategy game based on the epic struggles of the WWI era. Experience the battles of attrition and punishing artillery barrages. Play as any nation of the period as the modern world of industrialized warfare replaces an age of kings with a struggle of ideologies.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 33.5%, World War I 18.3% ★, Historical 12.5%, Strategy 6.7%, Military 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses specifically on the geopolitical tensions and military mobilization that defined the start of the 20th century.
- #31 Offworld Trading Company
78% matchMostly Positive77% of 5,719 reviews2016
Dev: Mohawk GamesPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 35.3 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Mars has been colonized, and Earth's corporate titans fight to dominate this new market. Competition is fierce in this fast-paced economic RTS from Civilization IV Lead Designer, Soren Johnson.
Why similar: Economy 41.2%, Strategy 23.8%, Simulation 12.8%, Management 11.9%, Multiplayer 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A pure economic strategy game that focuses on market manipulation, supply chains, and competitive trading.
- #32 Age of History II
76% matchVery Positive90% of 50,416 reviews2018
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows
Median: 11.3 hrsMean: 60.1 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Age of History II is a grand strategy wargame that is simple to learn yet hard to master.Your objective is to use military tactics and cunning diplomacy to either unify the world, or conquer it.Will the world bleed out or bow before you? The choice is yours..
Why similar: Grand Strategy 32.2%, Historical 17.9%, Political Sim 15.2% ★, Strategy 8%, War 6.9%
- #33 Hearts of Iron III
77% matchMostly Positive71% of 6,478 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 20.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Hearts of Iron III lets you play the most engaging conflict in world history, World War 2, on all fronts as any country and through multiple different scenarios. Guide your nation to glory between 1936 and 1948 and wage war, conduct diplomacy and build your industry in the most detailed World War 2 game ever made.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 48.9%, Historical 14.6%, Real-Time with Pause 12.9% ★, Strategy 7.5%, Military 5.3%
- #34 Total War: MEDIEVAL II – Definitive Edition
75% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 36,538 reviews2006
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 37.5 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: Grand Strategy 38.3%, Historical 21.4%, Strategy 13.5%, War 6.7%, RTS 5.6%
- #35 Victoria I Complete
77% matchMixed67% of 283 reviews2010
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 22.3 hrs≥1hr: 25%
Carefully guide your nation from the era of absolute monarchies in the early 19th century, through expansion, colonization and social upheaval, to emerge as one of the great world powers by the dawn of the 20th century in Victoria Complete.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 51.9%, Real-Time with Pause 19.9% ★, Strategy 14.9%, Historical 13.4%
- #36 SuperPower 2 Steam Edition
75% matchMostly Positive79% of 2,859 reviews2014
Dev: GolemLabsPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 86.9 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: Political Sim 40.3% ★, Grand Strategy 32.3%, Strategy 8.4%, Economy 6.4%, War 4.4%
- #37 Rebel Inc: Escalation
72% matchVery Positive82% of 7,594 reviews2021
Dev: Ndemic CreationsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
A unique and deeply engaging political/military strategic simulation from the creator of Plague Inc. Balance competing civilian and military priorities and deal with a deadly insurgency in order to stabilise a war-torn country.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 25%, Real-Time with Pause 13.2% ★, Historical 11.4%, Economy 7.6%, Diplomacy 6.8% ★
- #38 Supremacy: 1914
73% matchMostly Positive74% of 4,355 reviews2019
Dev: Bytro Labs GmbH
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 40.1 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Take over the control of one of the mighty nations during the times of World War 1 in the biggest WW1 strategy game of all time. Conquer provinces, forge alliances and build up your economy in real-time on persistent maps. Build experimental weapons of World War 1 and become the one true superpower!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 29.5%, World War I 16.3% ★, Historical 15.5%, Strategy 8.6%, Military 7.5%
- #39 March of the Eagles
74% matchMixed63% of 418 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 70%
“he Who Fears Being Conquered Is Sure Of Defeat.”The war-game March of the Eagles focuses on the dramatic conflicts of Europe during 1805 to 1820. Explore one of the defining periods in European history with this experience crafted by the masters of Grand Strategy, Paradox Development Studio.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 50%, Historical 16.9%, Real-Time with Pause 14.6% ★, Strategy 13.3%, Simulation 5.2%
- #40 Nations
70% matchVery Positive90% of 148 reviews2025
Dev: Krzysztof SteinerPub: Krzysztof Steiner Games
Windows
Select an era, a nation and lead it to greatness or decay. Develop the economy and society, or focus on military and territorial expansion. In Nations you can rule your people for centuries – from ancient times to the modern day and beyond. You shape your state, history and map of the world.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 31.9%, Historical 19.4%, Political Sim 17% ★, Strategy 8.7%, RTS 5.9%
- #41 Realpolitiks
73% matchMixed62% of 1,247 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: Grand Strategy 34.7%, Political Sim 27.7% ★, Diplomacy 12.6% ★, Strategy 12.1%, Historical 9.9%
- #42 Sengoku
74% matchMixed57% of 508 reviews2011
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Use your power as a Feudal Lord to unite the land of the Rising Sun under your iron fist.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 50.5%, Historical 22.5%, Strategy 13.5%, Real-Time with Pause 8% ★, Simulation 5.6%
- #43 Knights of Honor
71% matchVery Positive91% of 2,429 reviews2009
Dev: Black Sea Studios LtdPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 14.9 hrs≥1hr: 60%
As King, it is your duty to lead your people in their struggle to raise your kingdom from its humble beginnings to a position of power and prestige. War, diplomacy and a burgeoning economy are the means by which you increase your power and expand your influence.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 50%, Strategy 17.5%, Historical 16.1%, RTS 7.4%, War 6.1%
- #44 Millennia
70% matchMixed67% of 3,788 reviews2024
Dev: C Prompt GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 14.3 hrsMean: 36.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Create your own nation in Millennia, a historical turn-based 4X game that challenges your strategic prowess across 10,000 years of history, from the dawn of humanity to our possible futures.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 35.6%, Historical 14.8%, Economy 9.4%, Diplomacy 8.2% ★, Military 6.6%
- #45 Solar Nations 2
69% matchVery Positive85% of 634 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 34.5%, Political Sim 17.8% ★, Real-Time with Pause 14% ★, Historical 7.6%, Military 7.1%
- #46 For The Glory: A Europa Universalis Game
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 173 reviews2009
Dev: Crystal Empire GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 36.1 hrs≥1hr: 43%
Take up the reins of your country, guide domestic and foreign policy, navigate thousands of historical figures and events, engage in various struggles and lead your country to prosperity – all in the name of glory!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 34.9%, Historical 15.6%, Economy 7.8%, Diplomacy 7.6% ★, Real-Time with Pause 6.1% ★
- #47 Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War
68% matchVery Positive81% of 737 reviews2025
Dev: Nostalgames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.8 hrsMean: 33.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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: Grand Strategy 29%, Political Sim 23.9% ★, Historical 14.9%, Economy 9.4%, Alternate History 6.2%
- #48 Countryballs Conquest
69% matchVery Positive86% of 92 reviews2025
Dev: Indenial Games
Windows
Lead your country through the Victorian age, expand your empire as you go head to head with the great powers of the world.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 45.9%, Military 9%, War 8.4%, Strategy 8.1%, Historical 7.7%
- #49 World Warfare & Economics
70% matchMixed59% of 688 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 28.1%, Political Sim 19.7% ★, Real-Time with Pause 11.2% ★, Economy 7.5%, Diplomacy 6.4% ★
- #50 Age of History 2: Definitive Edition
67% matchVery Positive84% of 2,739 reviews2026
Dev: Łukasz JakowskiPub: Łukasz Jakowski Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 8.9 hrsMean: 26.7 hrs≥1hr: 84%
The grand strategy classic returns with improved gameplay, a massive 13,892 province map, expanded diplomacy and wartime capitulation, new civilizations and scenarios, atomic weapons, smarter AI, enhanced visuals, UI upgrades, and major performance improvements.
Why similar: Political Sim 25.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.3%, World War I 14.5% ★, Diplomacy 9.2% ★, Historical 7.9%
- #51 Hearts of Iron 2 Complete
71% matchVery Positive82% of 705 reviews2009
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 17.9 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 60.4%, Historical 20.1%, Strategy 17%, RTS 2.5%
- #52 States of Power
66% matchVery Positive89% of 403 reviews2026
Dev: Sarunas
Windows
Command your nation's armies, economy, and diplomacy in this WWII Grand Strategy Wargame. Easy to start, hard to master and a full match fits in one session. Play singleplayer and multiplayer, or create, play and share your own custom scenarios with the built-in Scenario Editor.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 31.2%, Real-Time with Pause 18.4% ★, Historical 11.4%, Diplomacy 6% ★, Alternate History 5.8%
- #53 Europa Universalis: Rome - Gold Edition
72% matchMixed65% of 250 reviews2008
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 18.8 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 51.1%, Historical 18.7%, Real-Time with Pause 16% ★, Strategy 12.5%, Simulation 1.7%
- #54 Sid Meier's Civilization IV: Colonization
69% matchVery Positive87% of 1,583 reviews2008
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac
Median: 30 minMean: 14.2 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: Historical 37.6%, Strategy 28.8%, Grand Strategy 16.8%, Moddable 5.7%, Economy 5.2%
- #55 Fantasy Map Simulator
65% matchVery Positive89% of 4,362 reviews2024
Dev: The Stranger
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 9.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Fantasy Map Simulator: Create and watch imaginary worlds evolve over centuries. Design maps, simulate nations and their politics, and control destinies. See empires rise and fall on your desktop wallpaper. A unique simulation for history buffs and creative minds.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 40.2%, Political Sim 27.3% ★, Alternate History 7.8%, War 6.4%, Military 6.2%
- #56 Steel Division 2
67% matchMostly Positive79% of 9,602 reviews2019
Dev: Eugen Systems
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 52.3 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: Grand Strategy 26.8%, Real-Time with Pause 15.6% ★, Historical 12.9%, Military 9.5%, Strategy 8.7%
- #57 Supreme Ruler 2030
68% matchMixed65% of 555 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: Grand Strategy 27.5%, Political Sim 12.6% ★, Real-Time with Pause 11.5% ★, Military 6.6%, Economy 6.3%
- #58 Pride of Nations
71% matchMixed49% of 137 reviews2011
Dev: AgeodPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Pride of Nations is a turn-based historical strategy game set in the colonial era of the 19th century, where the player takes control of a country and guides it through industrialization, military conquest, and colonization.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 55.6%, Historical 20.2%, Strategy 15.6%, Simulation 5.6%, Multiplayer 2.4%
- #59 Warnament
65% matchVery Positive85% of 506 reviews2025
Dev: Luden.io
Windows · Mac · Linux
An approachable turn-based grand strategy sandbox. Lead a nation, forge alliances, wage wars and rewrite history. Play solo or with friends, create your own maps and scenarios, and explore community mods on Steam Workshop.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 33.4%, World War I 11.9% ★, Historical 10.1%, Economy 8.6%, Diplomacy 6.8% ★