Although strategic games with a focus on empire-building might not appeal to everybody, individuals who relish the concept of dominating the globe—be it in historical times, contemporary settings, or futuristic scenarios—frequently find themselves engrossed for countless hours, poring over landscapes as they devise their subsequent tactical maneuvers. A significant number of these players get so involved that they accumulate several hundred hours dedicated to such pursuits.

best grand strategy games

often unfold across extensive stretches of historical time spanning multiple centuries, with certain games emphasizing immersive experiences and character roles from those epochs.

For players interested in combining elements of fantasy and science fiction in their strategic gameplay, there are grand strategy games available where you can wield magic or futuristic tech to dominate your opponents. Although such titles are not common. Certain games focus extensively on complex strategies, and even though they might be challenging to learn, the rewards make them highly worthwhile investments.

Updated on August 7, 2024, by Joe Grantham:

The grand strategy genre boasts numerous entries covering more than twenty years of monumental campaigns. Even as newer titles leverage cutting-edge technology to elevate the category, many classic releases continue to offer engaging experiences that remain relevant today.

Strategic grandeur titles often get complimentary updates along with purchasable DLCs following their launch, which implies that vintage games become more comprehensive compared to newer ones; additionally, significant expansion packs may be bought for less money over time.

Supremacy 1914: The First World War

A Multi-Month Online World War 1 Game

• 
  Platforms
  
  : Desktop PCs, Mac OS, Mobile Devices, Web Browsers
• 
  Release Date
  
  : May 10, 2005
• 
  Developer
  
  Black Sea Studios Ltd

Supremacy 1914: The Great War of World War I

Is a bold endeavor designed for as many as 500 participants to experience the dynamics of World War I in real-time, where sessions might stretch over several months. However, active participation doesn’t require constant player engagement; rather, individuals set strategies and develop their forces incrementally. The good news is that updates can easily be monitored via mobile devices, so launching the application isn’t always necessary. Within this framework, competitors may engage in trading agreements between countries or establish pacts aimed at achieving supremacy on the battlefield.

However, while
Supremacy 1914
is a
free-to-play game
Players should be informed that those who invest money into the game will, unfortunately, gain an edge over their opponents.

Field Of Glory: Empires

A game from the Classical era that evokes memories of tabletop experiences.

Even though it may not be the most widely acclaimed grand strategy game,

Field of Glory: Empires

Has nevertheless garnered positive feedback and comes with an inventive aspect tucked away. Positioned in the Classical Era, gamers assume command of various factions, each boasting its distinct culture, aiming to establish a new empire across Europe and the Mediterranean.

Certainly, conflicts and skirmishes have the biggest impact on expansion. Nonetheless, something distinctive about
Field of Glory: Empires
offers players the ability to transfer their combat experiences into another game produced by Ageod,
Field of Glory 2
This is a turn-based tactics game akin to traditional tabletop gaming, offering players more control during combat situations. In this grand strategy game, assembling a varied force equipped to tackle particular adversaries is crucial. However, through astute battlefield strategies, gamers can triumph despite unfavorable conditions.

Rome: Total War

A Legacy-Defining Game

In many players’ eyes,

Rome: Total War

was long ago outshone in terms of brilliance, particularly by its immediate follow-up. Nonetheless, this title played a crucial role in defining the franchise’s success.
Total War
The series has attracted enthusiasts globally by seemingly refining the recipe, seamlessly blending empire crafting, political maneuvering, and undoubtedly spectacular real-time conflicts.

Even though it has been around for some time, this game offers endless replay value due to its numerous factions, characters, and units. Participants get engrossed in combat sequences and eagerly anticipate each word from a commander’s address. For those keen on revisiting this beloved classic, it might be worth considering.
Rome: Total War Remastered
For improved visuals and additional minor enhancements.

Knights Of Honor

A Sentimental Blend of Combats, Seiges, Plots, and Statesmanship

• 
  Platforms
  
  : PC
• 
  Release Date
  
  : May 10, 2005
• 
  Developer
  
  Black Sea Studios Ltd

Even with its old-school pixelated graphics, the main game play mechanics of

Knights of Honor

Still relevant even today, players have the option to participate in fast-paced combat scenarios and large-scale sieges, along with attaining objectives through intricate strategies and diplomatic maneuvers.

To broaden their sphere of control, players need to initially strengthen their economy through the development of their properties and ensuring citizen satisfaction. Building a dedicated group of faithful knights is crucial for achieving triumph, as these characters hold significant importance within the gameplay. What makes the game engaging is the multitude of strategies available to secure victory or simply enjoy the experience.

Victoria 2

One of the Top Economic and Trade Systems in the Grand Strategy Category

While

Victoria 2

Although it isn’t the most recent entry in the series—given that a third release came out in 2022—a significant number of gamers still favor this particular title due to its comprehensive nature. Spanning from 1836 to 1936, it stands as an extensive strategy game but covers a shorter timeframe than other games under the Paradox banner. Despite this narrower period, players get control over the whole world and manage more than 200 distinct countries. This setup promotes a less rushed experience, prompting deeper consideration of strategic and political outcomes.

In addition to the two main expansion packs, gamers have the option to download various meticulously crafted modifications that enhance the gameplay further, deepening their immersion into the industrial age with extra details. Given that this is an industrial-themed game, players should anticipate
a complex trade system
with a focus on technological advancements driving expansions.

Medieval 2: Total War

One of the finest Total War games of its time

Medieval 2: Total War

is significantly outmoded when it comes to graphics, yet its gameplay remains timeless. Those with sufficient experience will cherish it warmly as one of the greatest classics.
Total War
In this game, fashion combines elements of turn-based strategy played out over a vast map, leading into fast-paced real-time combat sequences.

Participants will assume the roles of various kingdoms like England or the Holy Roman Empire, aiming to assert their supremacy across the medieval landscape. A key feature of this game involves recreating famous medieval conflicts, including Agincourt, where flags wave dramatically amidst intense clashes between charging cavalries and well-armored foot soldiers.

Civilization 5

Certain players favor the gameplay of this somewhat older installment.

Civilization 5

is not part of the most recent addition to the legendary series, and with
Civilization 7
Declared now, its presence may dwindle away, becoming merely a remembrance for seasoned gamers. However, during its prime, this 4X and grand strategy title was remarkable, and there remains a niche group of enthusiasts who favor it over others.
Civ 6
.

A key factor that makes certain players favor this game is because it excels at supporting “playing tall.” In this approach, gamers concentrate on developing one or two major cities into dominant forces within the genre. Conversely, others lean towards “playing wide,” focusing instead on spreading their influence broadly over the entire map. Additionally, some players have preferences leaning towards this style of gameplay as well.
the leaders and countries of
Civ 5
, and the content can also be considered more substantial in some aspects.

Imperator: Rome

A Subpar Launch That Has Reemerged From The Ruins

Despite having a
hasty launch and let down for devotees
Initially, Paradox has since made updates and improvements.

Imperator: Rome

To assist it in rising from the ashes, the contentious mana system has been eliminated, a co-consul has been introduced, and significant interface improvements have been made. These changes have led to highly favorable recent reviews on Steam, making the game ideal for enthusiasts of Roman history.

Merging the individual role-playing game aspect of
Crusader Kings 3
, the management of population growth
Victoria 3
, and the Empire Management of
Europa Universalis 4
,
Imperator: Rome
borrows the finest elements from Paradox Interactive’s top titles to craft an engrossing strategic experience set during one of history’s most pivotal eras. However, the present version of the game faces limitations as its development was cut short because it failed to capture fan interest following a disappointing launch.

Total War: Rome 2

The Ideal Strategy Game for Enthusiasts of Roman History

Not only is

Total War: Rome 2

One of the finest grand strategy games ever made, yet it undoubtedly stands out as one of the most notable ones too.
the top games for enthusiasts of Roman history
, brimming with details and famous landmarks. Similar to others
Total War
The game merges grand strategy with spectacular real-time combat.

During the campaign mode, players can assume the part of rising Rome and attempt to dominate the remainder of the Italian Peninsula and further regions. They must enlist troops and strategize movements prior to entering battles and positioning their units, each of which can be managed separately.

Stellaris

A Majestic Science Fiction Strategy Game Featuring Both 4X and RTS Components

Compared to other grand strategy games, particularly those developed by Paradox Interactive,

Stellaris

exists in a realm entirely its own – quite literally. Unlike many grand strategy games that usually unfold within historically accurate, real-world settings,
Stellaris
takes place in a distant sci-fi universe teeming with extraterrestrial beings.

Intriguingly, during the initial phase of the game,
Stellaris
unfolds more akin to a 4X game, where players initially expand their galactic territories before moving into stages that demand greater emphasis on strategic planning. Additionally,
Elements of Real-Time Strategy games include
Stellaris
, which can be ideal for those who love excitement.

Total War: Warhammer 3

Fantasy Battles Have Never Been This Impressive

Total War: Warhammer 3

It certainly has its issues; some players criticize the downloadable content as being overly extensive. However, these concerns do not undermine how well the game delivers a stellar conclusion to what’s considered an outstanding trilogy. Featuring cutting-edge visuals that enhance both combat scenes and cinematic moments, it stands out as potentially one of the most visually appealing strategy titles around, complemented by an engrossing narrative.

As with other
Total War
The game includes grand strategy aspects, yet players might find themselves captivated primarily by the real-time combat scenarios within this fantastical setting.

Victoria 3

Adopt Industrialization and Transform into an Economic Leader During the Victorian Era

As the name

Victoria 3

suggests that Paradox Interactive’s strategic masterpiece is the latest addition to the franchise, allowing gamers to delve into the Victorian period. The game spans an entire century, beginning in 1836 and concluding in 1936, offering players numerous pathways for steering their country towards various outcomes.

Regardless of whether the objective is to
become an economic powerhouse
From a global threat to the essence of culture, this transformative epoch empowers players to mold the world’s history according to their preferences.
Victoria 3
As it is freshly released, there remains significant room for enhancement through additional expansion packs.

Crusader Kings 2

An Exquisite Medieval Classic That’s Free-to-Play With Abundant Engaging Features

Although

Crusader Kings 2

has now made room for its successor; however, its status as one of the finest grand strategy games ever remains unshaken. To numerous gamers,
Crusader Kings 2
acted as an entry point to the grand strategy genre, allowing players to dive into the more accessible era of the Middle Ages.

Although it doesn’t excel in role-playing as much as its follow-up does, this game shines brilliantly for large-scale military campaigns. These battles become even more spectacular with the renowned soundtrack playing in the background. Right now, one of its strengths lies in being superior to
Crusader Kings 3
does that mean the game includes all expansions through downloadable content, so those who have access can
immerse yourself in the complete taste of the medieval era
regardless of whichever domain they assume control over.
Crusader Kings 2
Is also now available at no cost, which is uncommon for this type of game.

Hearts Of Iron 4

A Genuine Hardcore Strategy Game Based on World War II

Although numerous grand strategy games unfold in far-off eras or fantastical futures that stretch the limits of imagination,

Hearts of Iron 4

Is set against the backdrop of the later stages of World War II. While this isn’t uncommon, the creators have found a manner to add their own twist to it.

For better or worse,
Hearts of Iron 4
is known for being one of
the toughest grand strategy titles
, featuring intricate mechanisms that can be challenging to grasp initially. Once players acclimate to the harsh realities of global warfare, they must learn to prudently manage their forces and assets.

Total War: Warhammer 2

Epic Fantastical Wars and Expanded Tactical Planning Come Together in One of the Finest Total War Titles

While most
Total War
events occur in historical contexts, with one of
the best
Total War
games
is

Total War: Warhammer 2

The 2017 release enables gamers to explore the renowned fantasy tabletop universe through their screens, significantly enhancing the experience.

Even though the standout feature of the game might be its fantastical real-time combat, the phases leading up to battle and strategic planning on the map also include significant grand strategy components. Enthusiasts of fantasy can rejoice as the game boasts both a predecessor and a follow-up installment.
Total War: Warhammer 2
is still the most versatile among the three.

Europa Universalis 4

A Genuine Strategic Game Focused on Dominating the Whole Planet

Players of grand strategy games who wish to move past the Middle Ages and explore the era from the Renaissance through to the early modern period have found their perfect match with this game.

Europa Universalis 4

. From
industry giants Paradox Interactive
This game enables players to alter world history via trade, colonization, and many other elements.

Although
Europa Universalis 4
Released in 2013, this title continues to be relevant and has received numerous expansion packs since then. Set within an authentic historical context, the game boasts stunning visuals and offers a more accessible experience compared to similar games.

Civilization 6

The Most Recent & Perhaps Best Game In an Legendary Series

Civilization 6

The newest addition to this renowned series seamlessly merges the 4X genre with grand strategy gameplay. As tribal chiefs leading your people, you’ll begin by exploring and expanding territory before shifting focus to broader strategic objectives.

Several methods can lead to triumph, including conquering via warfare, spearheading advanced technologies, and even spreading cultural influence.
Civilization 6
is also one of
The top grand strategy games you can enjoy with your buddies.
, even as loyalties might face scrutiny.

Crusader Kings 3

The Ideal Blend of Strategy and Medieval Roleplaying

Crusader Kings 3

It marks the third release in Paradox Interactive’s premier series and unquestionably stands among the finest grand strategy games ever created. The game takes place during the medieval period, where players select an initial ruler and proceed to annex adjacent realms using cunning tactics, raw power, or whatever methods they deem appropriate. Provided that their successor belongs to their lineage, players will carry on their legacy posthumously across multiple campaigns spanning hundreds of years.

What makes
Crusader Kings 3
stands apart from other grand strategy games and even its forebears.
how effectively it includes role-playing
Into the genre, the stress mechanic incentivizes players to make choices that resonate with their character’s persona, ensuring each playthrough feels distinct. Gamers will genuinely experience the pressures faced by medieval leaders as they juggle the kingdom’s demands with personal ambitions. With every downloadable content pack and free update, additional layers of gameplay and thematic elements are introduced.
CK3
grows ever greater.