Top 10 Turn-Based Strategy Games to Sharpen Your Tactical Skills

In the world of gaming, turn-based strategy games stand out as a genre that demands tactical thinking, meticulous planning, and a dash of creativity. These games allow players to strategize their moves at their own pace, making them perfect for those who enjoy deep, methodical gameplay. If you're looking to enhance your tactical skills, here are the top ten turn-based strategy games worth diving into.

1. XCOM 2

XCOM 2 takes the classic formula of its predecessor and elevates it to new heights. Players command a team of soldiers fighting against an alien occupation of Earth. The blend of resource management, tactical battles, and story-driven elements creates an immersive experience that will compel you to think several steps ahead. The permadeath aspect of soldiers adds emotional weight to every decision, sharpening your tactical skills with each encounter.

2. Divinity: Original Sin 2

This game redefines what a turn-based role-playing strategy game can be. With its rich narrative and incredibly deep mechanics, it encourages players to experiment with various strategies. The diverse character classes and skills allow for a multitude of tactical approaches in combat. The stunning graphics and a gripping story weave together to not just challenge your mind, but to keep your heart racing as you immerse yourself in its fantasy world.

3. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

A hallmark of tactical RPGs, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is known for its compelling characters and intricate tactical battles. The player takes on the role of a teacher at a military academy, leading a group of students into battle. The game includes a social simulation aspect, which means your tactical choices during battles are as impactful as your interactions with characters. It's a brilliantly crafted game that demands your attention and strategic foresight.

4. Total War: Three Kingdoms

Combining turn-based strategy with real-time tactics, Total War: Three Kingdoms is set in ancient China. Players can choose to lead various factions, employing strategy both on the campaign map and in heated real-time battles. The importance of diplomacy, resource management, and tactical positioning makes this game a comprehensive test of your strategic skills.

5. Advance Wars: Re-Boot Camp

A remaster of the beloved Advance Wars series, this game is perfect for players looking for a combination of nostalgia and fresh tactical battles. Players command armies, capture bases, and engage in grid-based combat. The game's straightforward mechanics paired with its deep strategic options make it accessible yet challenging, honing your planning and foresight.

6. Gears Tactics

A fresh take on the Gears of War franchise, Gears Tactics delivers a gripping storyline along with strategic, turn-based combat. This game pushes players to consider cover and movement on the battlefield carefully. With a focus on unit customization and unique abilities, it invites players to adopt various strategies for victory while sharpening their tactical prowess.

7. Into the Breach

Into the Breach is a relatively simple but incredibly rewarding turn-based strategy game. Players control mechs and defend cities from alien invasions. The game limits the player's moves, making it essential to plan each action meticulously. With its engaging mechanics and the requirement for critical thinking, you'll find your tactical skills greatly improving with each playthrough.

8. Banner Saga Trilogy

Combining real-time decisions with turn-based combat, the Banner Saga Trilogy delivers a narrative-rich experience that embodies deep strategy. Players must make tough choices that affect the survival of their caravan and engage in tactical battles that require careful planning. The stunning artwork and compelling story elements provide both a feast for the eyes and a workout for the mind.

9. Wargroove

Emulating the tactical gameplay of the Advance Wars series but with a fantasy twist, Wargroove offers a charming art style and fun mechanics. The game features a variety of units and commanders, allowing for diverse strategic approaches. Whether you're playing through the campaign or engaging in multiplayer, it's a tactical delight that promises to enhance your strategic thinking.

10. Company of Heroes 2

While technically a real-time strategy game, Company of Heroes 2 allows for a lot of turn-based strategic thinking through its mechanics. Players control squads of soldiers in World War II settings, emphasizing cover and tactical movement. The combination of resource management and combat requires players to think quickly and strategically to gain advantages over opponents.

Final Thoughts

These ten turn-based strategy games are not just entertaining; they are invaluable tools to sharpen your tactical skills. Each offers unique mechanics and challenges, encouraging players to think critically about their decisions. Whether you're defending Earth from alien invaders or battling rival factions in ancient China, the essence lies in strategy, thinking several steps ahead of your opponents.

As you embark on these gaming adventures, remember that every match is an opportunity to fine-tune your strategic mindset. The world of turn-based strategy awaits, so gear up, plan your moves wisely, and enjoy the thrill of tactical victories!

Key Takeaways

• Turn-based strategy games demand critical thinking and foresight.
• Different games emphasize various aspects like resource management, character interactions, and tactical movements.
• Mastering these games can enhance your overall strategic skills for any competitive environment.

Game Title	Genre	Notable Features
XCOM 2	Turn-Based Strategy	Permadeath Feature
Divinity: Original Sin 2	RPG/Strategy	Character Customization
Fire Emblem: Three Houses	Tactical RPG	Character Relationships
Total War: Three Kingdoms	Strategy	Real-Time Tactics
Advance Wars: Re-Boot Camp	Turn-Based Strategy	Accessible Mechanics
Gears Tactics	Turn-Based Strategy	Unit Customization
Into the Breach	Strategy	Planned Moves
Banner Saga Trilogy	Turn-Based Strategy	Narrative Rich
Wargroove	Tactical Strategy	Fantasy Elements
Company of Heroes 2	Real-Time Strategy	Cover Mechanics