We already published the list of best PS1 games of all time, now it’s time to discover the best PS1 turn-based strategy games of all time.
With amazing titles available, the PS1 definitely has a great library of turn-based strategy games.
So, if you’re a fan of both the PS1 and turn-based 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. Monster Rancher Battle Card: Episode II
- Release Data: Tecmo, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Card Battle
In the Monster Rancher world, children who aren’t quite old or experienced enough to ranch their own monsters and train them to fight are instead trained in the game of battle cards.
The competition can get pretty fierce, as players are encouraged, or rather, forced, to wager valuable cards on the outcomes of their matches.
#9. Vanguard Bandits
- Release Data: S-Neo/Human Entertainment, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Despite the flaws and age, Vanguard Bandits emerges as a solid game thanks to its entertaining characters.
The embossed foil instruction manual cover doesn’t make up for the game’s glaring flaws, but fans of the strategy RPG genre should find enough in the game to keep themselves entertained.
#8. Hogs of War
- Release Data: Infogrames Sheffield/Infogrames, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Artillery
Hogs of War isn’t a game to respect for its single-player offerings. However, the game’s multiplayer aspects successfully redeem the game.
With four people joining in, the number of explosions and craziness nearly lifts the game into the same sphere of quality as Worms or Bomberman.
In short, if you own a Multitap, you could be in for some fun times.
#7. Vandal Hearts
- Release Data: KCET/Konami, 1997
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Vandal Hearts plays like Final Fantasy Tactics as you control a party of various characters in a top down battlefield in a square grid-based isometric view.
Those looking for a deep strategy game might be disappointed in this title, but the heave story makes up for it.
#6. Vandal Hearts II
- Release Data: Konami, 1999
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
While Vandal Hearts II lacks the grand feel of Final Fantasy Tactics, it is a solid and rewarding strategy-RPG.
It has flaws of its own, but it doesn’t fall into the pitfalls that frustrated many of Final Fantasy Tactics‘ players, making it well suited for both veterans and newcomers to the genre.
#5. Saiyuki: Journey West
- Release Data: Koei, 2001
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Saiyuki is a competent title with enough depth, playability, challenge, and originality to hold the interest of the discerning strategy fan.
The unique setting and story are presented with a solid translation effort, and the game should take around 30 hours to finish.
This low-profile title definitely deserves a look.
#4. Worms Armageddon
- Release Data: Team 17/MicroProse, 1999
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Artillery
If you’ve got plenty of friends who spend their time lounging around your place, definitely pick this one up for some rewarding gameplay and good laughs.
Although the game has its weak points, the solid gameplay and simple control make this game a must-have for anyone who likes to play games with other humans.
#3. Final Fantasy Tactics
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 1998
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
The pacing of Final Fantasy Tactics ensures that there’s never a dull moment, and building experience is a real treat—whereas doing so is a chore in most other RPGs.
The challenging nature of this game allows for a much more serious story than most other RPGs, and the ability to customize each soldier to the extreme ensures superior play life.
#2. Front Mission 3
- Release Data: SquareSoft, 2000
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » Tactics
Front Mission 3 has managed to retain its strategy-simulation aspects, albeit at a relatively simpler level, which will let beginners feel comfortable playing the game and keep the hardcore gamers satisfied, too.
Square has managed to deliver a good human drama based on the theme of war in the Front Mission series, and this game fits the series nicely.
#1. Civilization II
- Release Data: LTI Gray Matter/Human Entertainment, 1998
- Genre: Strategy » Turn-Based » 4X
In the final analysis, Civilization II is a welcome change of pace for the PlayStation.
If the graphics were better, it would be a must-have, but as it is, Civilization II is a solid, if not spectacular, game that strategy fans will not want to miss.
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See also: Best Gaming Chairs & Best PS2 Games
Are your favorite games on the list?
Deciding which PS1 turn-based strategy game is the best is no doubt a never ending topic, but it’s fun to do!
