The turn-based strategy genre is here to stay. In recent years, we’ve seen a ton of innovation in the genre, resulting in better games than ever. We’re going to talk you through five of the best TBS games ever made, so you know what to pick up in 2024 and beyond.
Credit: Splash Damage
When talking about the best TBS games, Gears Tactics always goes under the radar. Splash Damage’s 2020 title takes clear inspiration from the modern XCOM games, but covers it in a bloody Gears coat of paint, with a fresh prequel story for fans of the franchise to appreciate. Gears Tactics may not be an obvious choice, but it’s our choice for 5th place here. A great departure from the rest of the Gears of War series.
Credit: Firaxis Games
When XCOM: Enemy Unknown first arrived back in 2012, turn-based strategy fans were shocked by its brilliance. Rebooting the XCOM franchise altogether was no small feat, so to do so with one of the best TBS games ever was a massive achievement from Firaxis games. Its permadeath feature for companions meant that every fight was a dangerous one, and no two playthroughs were the same. Although it was later upstaged by its remarkable sequel, XCOM: Enemy Unknown remains one of the best turn-based strategy games ever made.
Credit: Firaxis Games
Sid Meier’s Civilization V largely follows the series’ previous formula, with 4X turn-based strategy the name of the game. You take charge of a historical civilization, taking it from the prehistoric era right up into the future, competing with other civilizations to progress the fastest and own as much land as possible. Each faction is led by one of its most famous leaders from history. For example, America is led by George Washington, and France by Napoleon, and you can even interact with these figures, forming alliances or declaring war to conquer the world. It’s your choice. This is arguably the series’ best entry, and one of the finest TBS games around.
Credit: Intelligent Systems
Fire Emblem Awakening was the first game in the series to be developed for the Nintendo 3DS, and what a first entry it was. The game was slightly simplified in terms of its mechanics, making it far more accessible to new fans of the series. However, it still innovated on the things players loved from previous Fire Emblem games. It remains a must-play for any gamer looking for the best turn-based strategy games.
Credit: Firaxis Games
Was first place ever in doubt? XCOM 2 is, simply put, the best turn-based strategy game ever made. Improving on the already stellar mechanics of Enemy Unknown, XCOM 2 introduced time-based objectives mid-mission, which leveled up the peril in a way the previous game simply didn’t achieve. It’s a marvelous achievement, made to be played over and over again. Add in an active modding scene, and you’ve got a game that will live on for many years yet.
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