We already published the list of best PC games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PC strategy games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PC gaming community will surely enjoy a great library of strategy games.
So, if you’re a PC gamer and love 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.
#25. Homeworld
- Release Data: Relic Entertainment/Sierra Entertainment, 1999
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
Homeworld is a game that stands out as one of the best releases of its time.
While there may be some minor complaints about its design or mechanics, they pale in comparison to the overall experience it delivers.
It’s no surprise that Homeworld has become a favorite among many gamers, and its enduring appeal ensures its place as a timeless classic.
#24. Total Annihilation
- Release Data: Cavedog Entertainment/Humongous Entertainment, 1997
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
Total Annihilation is a game that offers a unique and rewarding experience in the real-time strategy genre.
While some players seeking incremental changes to the standard formula may find it too different, the game’s strengths overshadow any minor details that may be perceived as drawbacks.
#23. Empire: Total War
- Release Data: Creative Assembly/Sega, 2009
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
With its intricate mechanics, vast scope, and attention to detail, Empire: Total War is a title that demands attention from strategy enthusiasts.
It represents a significant achievement in the genre and solidifies Creative Assembly’s position as a pioneer in the realm of large-scale RTS and simulation gaming.
#22. Age of Empires II: The Conquerors Expansion
- Release Data: Ensemble Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
The Age of Kings was already an exceptional game from the start, so the enhancements provided by The Conquerors serve as slight but appreciable enhancements overall.
Nevertheless, the numerous additions in The Conquerors collectively succeed in capturing the interest of The Age of Kings players, enticing them to immerse themselves in this ambitious game once again, ensuring long-lasting engagement.
#21. World in Conflict
- Release Data: Massive Entertainment/Sierra Entertainment, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Overall, World in Conflict is a highly recommended choice for fans of real-time strategy games or players who enjoy team-based shooters and seek a refreshing experience.
Moreover, the game is sure to satisfy those who value impressive visuals, as the depiction of nuclear explosions is nothing short of spectacular, regardless of your chosen graphic settings.
#20. Sid Meier’s Civilization V
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/2K Games, 2010
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
Almost without exception, the changes made in the game are for the better, achieving a delicate balance between enhanced accessibility and profound depth.
In the realm of intellectual gaming experiences, Firaxis continues to reign as the unrivaled leader among commercial developers, and Civilization V seamlessly takes its place as yet another shining gem in their illustrious collection.
#19. Rise of Nations
- Release Data: Big Huge Games/Microsoft Game Studios, 2003
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Rise of Nations surpasses its predecessors with smarter gameplay, increased challenges, and a wealth of engaging activities.
The game introduces innovative concepts like cities, attrition damage, and rare resources, making it deeper and more enjoyable than previous real-time strategy games.
It successfully bridges the gap between real-time and turn-based strategy, delivering an exceptional gaming experience.
#18. XCOM: Enemy Unknown
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/2K Games, 2012
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
X-COM combines thrilling tactical battles with an enjoyable sci-fi setting, placing the player in a position of accountability for their decisions.
During the campaign, you’ll partake in a diverse range of captivating missions, where strategic gunfights against aliens await.
And in X-COM, the loss of a team member is irrevocable, compelling you to carefully consider your actions before taking them.
#17. Dota 2
- Release Data: Valve Software, 2013
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » MOBA
DOTA 2 delivers an authentic competitive gaming experience that can take you on an emotional rollercoaster, ranging from exhilarating highs to frustrating lows that may occasionally leave you questioning your choice to play.
The learning curve is incredibly steep, bordering on the realm of the truly challenging, but the sense of achievement is profound once you grasp the fundamental mechanics.
#16. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/2K Games, 2017
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
War of the Chosen enriches the XCOM universe with a myriad of compelling features, seamlessly blending elite soldiers and fostering stronger bonds within your squads.
So, if you have a penchant for profound strategy and merciless turn-based tactics, accompanied by a remarkable interplay between camp management and captivating emergent drama, look no further than War of the Chosen.
#15. Total War: Shogun 2
- Release Data: Creative Assembly/Sega, 2011
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » General
This sequel returns to its Japanese origins, while also refining and simplifying certain gameplay mechanics for a more streamlined and immersive experience.
And in addition to commanding the army and participating in battles, you also shoulder the responsibility of engaging in political discourse, establishing settlements, advancing technological prowess, and managing various aspects of your faction’s development.
#14. Sacrifice
- Release Data: Shiny Entertainment/Interplay, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
While the learning curve may require some time, and certain combat elements may occasionally feel cumbersome, Sacrifice‘s innovative qualities outweigh any shortcomings.
And by embracing its outstanding features, players can overlook these minor issues and fully appreciate the game’s unique and captivating qualities.
#13. Black & White
- Release Data: Lionhead Studios/Electronic Arts, 2001
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Considering its lofty aspirations, Black & White admirably realizes most of its ambitious concepts, delivering a gameplay experience that was truly ahead of its time.
By offering players the opportunity to embody a god, Black & White provides an immersive journey that showcases the game’s innovative ideas executed with finesse.
#12. Command & Conquer: Red Alert
- Release Data: Westwood Studios/Electronic Arts, 1996
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
Command & Conquer: Red Alert is an exhilarating game that captivates players with its compelling “alternate timeline” narrative.
The combined storylines of each faction offer hours upon hours of entertainment, ensuring that you’ll be engrossed in the game for an extensive period of time.
#11. Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne
- Release Data: Blizzard Entertainment, 2003
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
While Warcraft 3: The Frozen Throne introduces several notable changes, the core gameplay loop remains highly reminiscent of the base game.
And it’s important to acknowledge that Warcraft 3 served as a pioneering title, paving the way for immensely popular games like League of Legends and DOTA 2.
#10. Rome: Total War
- Release Data: Creative Assembly/Activision, 2004
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
While it may appear as a straightforward strategy game at first glance, Rome grants players the ability to fine-tune numerous aspects, exerting influence over the intricate mechanics at play.
The extensive control also empowers players to delve into the inner workings of the game and tailor their strategies accordingly, resulting in a highly immersive gameplay experience.
#9. Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings
- Release Data: Ensemble Studios/Microsoft Game Studios, 1999
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
If you have a fondness for real-time strategy games in the classical style, The Age of Kings will undoubtedly impress you.
It deserves high praise, even when compared directly to the most exceptional examples within its genre.
The game’s merits, both in terms of gameplay and overall quality, become evident and contribute to its well-deserved acclaim.
#8. Sid Meier’s Alpha Centauri
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/Electronic Arts, 1999
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
The gameplay of this sci-fi epic strategy game combines elements of survival and civilization building, as you navigate the challenge of creating a sustainable environment for your human survivors in an alien world.
Ultimately, your goal is to overcome any threats, establish successful colonization, and achieve this feat in a manner that aligns with your preferred play style.
#7. Galactic Civilizations II: Twilight of the Arnor
- Release Data: Stardock, 2008
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
Overall, Twilight of the Arnor is an outstanding choice for fans of civilization strategy games.
It offers an extensive economy system and requires meticulous micromanagement, allowing players to delve deep into the complexities of interstellar governance.
If you appreciate the intricacies of managing resources, expanding your empire, and making strategic decisions, this game will provide hours of engaging gameplay.
#6. Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty
- Release Data: Blizzard Entertainment, 2010
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
The game’s demanding nature, requiring strategic thinking and precise execution, has propelled it to the status of one of the most popular e-sports games ever.
Overall, with its engaging gameplay, expanded features, and significant presence in the e-sports scene, Starcraft II stands as a testament to its enduring popularity and enduring legacy in the genre.
#5. Galactic Civilizations II: Dark Avatar
- Release Data: Stardock, 2007
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
This sequel expands on the achievements of its predecessor, offering players an engaging gameplay experience that combines strategy with thrilling action.
And with the introduction of terraforming capabilities, diverse species can now thrive in various atmospheres, showcasing their adaptability.
Furthermore, the game provides expanded non-combat avenues, enabling players to engage in espionage, surveillance, and innovative diplomatic approaches.
#4. Starcraft
- Release Data: Blizzard Entertainment, 1998
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » Command
The game has so much to offer, from a story-heavy single player campaign to multiplayer modes with several modes, Starcraft will keep you company for a long time.
All told, Starcraft perfected the real-time strategy genre and does it miles better than any other competitors.
#3. Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos
- Release Data: Blizzard Entertainment, 2002
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
Like previous Warcraft titles, this game has you collecting resources and building up your base, creating units and commanding them in battle.
The game is split up into five different campaigns; an optional prologue and one campaign for each race.
Each campaign takes you through a variety of linear missions, with each ending in a massive large scale battle.
#2. Sid Meier’s Civilization IV
- Release Data: Firaxis Games/2K Games, 2005
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
There are many layers of management within the game, as you’ll have to develop technologies for your population, choose religions, have political conversations with other civilizations, and more.
Generally speaking, Civilization IV is a hugely fleshed-out simulator that allows you to play the way you want, growing in power until you take over the entire world.
#1. Company of Heroes
- Release Data: Relic Entertainment/THQ, 2006
- Genre: Strategy » Real-Time » General
This game takes the RTS mechanics of games like Warcraft and Starcraft and mixes them with the realistic warfare of World War II.
Players select their faction and army, moving around the map to collect resources and craft buildings and military units.
You then command those units into battle, forming strategic attack plans and defense formations.
Overall, a great game.
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Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PC strategy game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!