We already published the list of best GameCube games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best GameCube strategy games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the GameCube definitely has a great library of strategy games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the GameCube and strategy games, there’s a chance you’ll like this list.
And some of you may already know some of the games mentioned in this list.
#10. Phantasy Star Online Episode III: C.A.R.D. Revolution
- Release Data: Sonic Team/Sega, 2004
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
Whether or not you enjoyed previous PSO games seems pretty irrelevant in deciding if PSO III is right for you.
Rather, the deciding factor should be whether or not you appreciate the Phantasy Star Online aesthetic and would be interested in playing a card battling game in that universe.
If so, then PSO III will have plenty to offer you.
#9. Goblin Commander: Unleash the Horde
- Release Data: Jaleco Entertainment, 2003
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Usually people shun an RTS on a console due to hard controls, but Goblin Commander pulls it off perfectly.
It has a weak story, but then again, it’s an RTS, meaning it doesn’t need an engaging story to keep you playing it.
Gameplay wise, this may be one of the most beautiful RTS games on a console.
#8. Battalion Wars
- Release Data: Kuju Entertainment/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Tactics
Unfortunately, once you’re done with the game’s campaign, there isn’t much left to do aside from replay missions to increase your score, because it lacks any other additional modes.
It’s still quite a fun ride while it lasts though, so if you’re a fan of action strategy or military-style games, you won’t go wrong picking up Battalion Wars.
#7. Worms 3D
- Release Data: Team 17/Sega, 2004
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Artillery
Worms 3D puts in a good effort to introduce a third dimension into the formula without losing the strategy and the silliness that defined the series.
If you’re not concerned about the Worms legacy, you’ll find that Worms 3D stands up as a cute, quirky little strategy game with excellent multiplayer capacity.
#6. Gladius
- Release Data: LucasArts/Activision, 2003
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
Gladius doesn’t try to be a Japanese RPG or a straight out tactics game.
It’s plucked elements from several strategy games and patched them together into something that feels fresh.
Definitely not a game for everyone, Gladius fills a rather gaping tactical void on consoles.
#5. Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life
- Release Data: TOSE/Ubisoft, 2004
- Genre: Strategy » Management » Business / Tycoon
It’s a bit more structured, but fans of low-key, open-ended games like The Sims or Animal Crossing will likely find a lot of what they liked in those games in Harvest Moon: A Wonderful Life.
Established Harvest Moon fans already know what they’re getting into here and could have guessed that A Wonderful Life is a fun and addictive game.
#4. Harvest Moon: Magical Melody
- Release Data: Marvelous Entertainment, 2006
- Genre: Strategy » Management » Business / Tycoon
Harvest Moon: Magical Melody is much broader in scope than previous games in the series, and it gives you a lot more freedom in choosing how you want to play.
Harvest Moon fans will find even more to like than before, and for newcomers to the series, this is as good a place to start as any.
#3. Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
- Release Data: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
With battles against overwhelming odds, a deep story with tons of characters, and a slick, well-designed interface, this game shines out as a gem on the GameCube.
If you are willing to be patient and experience a game that you have to work for, then Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance is a definite must play.
#2. Pikmin
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2001
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Featuring slick graphics and addictive gameplay, Pikmin is a fresh entry in the GameCube software library—and one that gamers should definitely check out.
It’s an original game that showcases the GameCube hardware and Nintendo development prowess, and its different and slightly dark tone suits it perfectly.
#1. Pikmin 2
- Release Data: Nintendo, 2004
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
All told, Pikmin 2 is an excellent sequel that builds on its predecessor by introducing important additions that make the game even better than the original.
If you’re a fan of the original game, picking Pikmin 2 up should be a no-brainer and if you haven’t tried the series yet, Pikmin 2 is a fantastic place to start.
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See also: Best GBA Games & Best DS Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which GameCube strategy game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!