Turn-based tactics games were once all the rage on PC platforms, primarily due to their intricate menus and controls, which weren't exactly console-friendly. However, we have seen a revival of this fantastic and sophisticated genre, complete with real-life military tactics and strategic gameplay simulation, in recent years.
The current scene for turn-based tactics games is far from being restrictive. Following numerous notable evolutions, this genre has spawned a wide array of engaging variations, offering a plethora of fun-filled options for beginners to delve into. For those seeking to explore this genre, here are a few well-known franchises that offer lucid gameplay experiences.
Wildermyth
An obscure gem that should be on every gamer’s list is Wildermyth. It brilliantly fuses tactical battles with a touch of the unpredictable through procedural storytelling, delivering a role-playing adventure that stands apart in the gaming world.
What makes Wildermyth truly enthralling is the bespoke storytelling layered in each campaign. It ensures new encounters and explorations with every playthrough, allowing players to follow the epic odyssey of their heroes and witness the rise and fall of generations.
XCOM
XCOM is widely recognized as a challenging game series that appeals to players who relish a demanding gaming experience. The perpetual threat of permanent character death looms over every skirmish, intensifying the gameplay as players become emotionally attached to their in-game characters.
However, the challenges don’t bar beginners. Playing at an easy difficulty level lowers the risk of losing characters, allowing them to enjoy the combat without feeling rattled. XCOM’s compelling storyline, coupled with an unforgiving combat system that sharply penalizes blunders on higher difficulty levels, offers a unique gaming experience.
It's unthinkable to leave out Final Fantasy Tactics when discussing the finest games within the turn-based strategy realm. Many fans deem it the crowning jewel of Final Fantasy spinoffs.
The harmonious blend of engrossing storytelling and unparalleled gameplay engenders an engaging experience that’s hard to resist. Though it may take a while for novices to grasp the intricate job system and combat mechanics, mastering these elements can lead to an immensely rewarding gaming journey.
Battle for Wesnoth
The Battle for Wesnoth signifies the gaming community's passion for turn-based strategy games. As a cost-free, open-source game, it offers an impressive battlefield mechanism and an array of enticing content that keeps players glued for an extended duration.
With numerous factions to pick from and a decent storyline, The Battle for Wesnoth is an excellent initiation for anyone aiming to dive into turn-based strategy gaming. The fact that it comes free of cost makes it the perfect gateway into the genre.
Gears Tactics
Take a leaf from Halo Wars; Gears Tactics brings one of Microsoft's marquee franchises into the strategic domain, with a focus on turn-based combats. Gears of War borrows from X-COM but introduces enough novel concepts to stand out. While it is certainly not a walk in the park, its difficulty increases at a steady pace, making it not too daunting for genre standards.
However, like every debut, Gears Tactics has some teething problems. The missions seem to repeat themselves, leading to fatigue setting in as the prolonged campaign seldom offers much variety. Being familiar with Gears of War's universe is a plus; otherwise, the story may not resonate.
The Banner Saga
The Banner Saga, being one of the most visually striking games on this roster, is an excellent pick for anyone looking to venture into the realm of turn-based strategy games. The Viking theme makes for a riveting backdrop for this fantastic trilogy.
Neophytes will find it easy to navigate the game's strategic aspect, while the interactive narrative is equally impressive. The Banner Saga gradually enhances the challenge across the three games, making for an engaging playthrough.
Fire Emblem
Fire Emblem series stands tall as one of the most renowned strategy franchises. Characterized by political subplots, unforgettable characters, and captivating narratives, the Fire Emblem series has consistently ticked these boxes right from its inception.
The latest entry, Fire Emblem: Three Houses, is hailed as the best in the series and the most accessible too. Those who prefer a story-rich tactical escapade should certainly try this title.
Turn-based strategy games may overwhelm some with their plethora of tasks, but Into the Breach efficiently sidesteps these cliches and delivers a revolutionary experience.
Civilization
The Civilization series commands respect in the realm of turn-based strategy games, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. Launched in 1991 on MS-DOS, the latest release of this franchise was Civilization 6 in 2016. Over the span of 25 years, the Civilization series has collected numerous accolades and has become the gold standard of turn-based strategy gaming.
For those seeking a foray into this genre, any version from the Civilization series will serve as a perfect primer. Alternatively, they can dive right into the deep end with the most recent release - Civilization 6. Whichever they choose, players are guaranteed an unforgettable gaming experience.
Age of Wonders: Planetfall
The fifth chapter in the Age of Wonders series, Age of Wonders: Planetfall, provides a refreshing shift to a Sci-Fi backdrop. With a visually appealing and highly intuitive interface, it offers six distinct factions for players to choose from, each boasting a unique strategy and gameplay style.
Taking on the role of their chosen faction's commander, players are charged with steering their faction to triumph in ensuing battles. Balancing intricate variety and ease of play, Age of Wonders: Planetfall makes for a great introduction to the genre.
Total War
Renowned for being among the most popular strategy franchises, Total War offers a plethora of options. The series primarily revolves around historical periods, so beginners might prefer to start with an era that intrigues them the most. However, some versions are easier for newcomers. Shogun 2 is generally a user-friendly game, while the Warhammer spin-off series is deemed to be the most newcomer-friendly.
Warhammer 3, the latest undertaking of Total War, boasts arguably the best tutorial in the franchise, making it an ideal choice for novices venturing into turn-based strategy. Also, it holds its ground as a standalone game, eliminating the need to play the prior versions.
Freeciv
Drawing inspiration from the Civilization series, Freeciv is a cost-free, open-source strategy game. Much of its interface takes a leaf out of Civilization 2's book. Set in 4000 BC, it tasks players with guiding ancient tribes through the ages, simultaneously developing new technologies and broadening the tribe's units.
Sharing striking similarities with the Civilization series, Freeciv presents a dynamic world evolving over centuries, requiring the tribe to adapt accordingly. The ultimate aim is either to conquer the globe or advance to space colonization.
Europa Universalis 4
Europa Universalis 4 is an instant hit for those who revel in political gameplay set against the backdrop of medieval Europe. Typically, strategy games entail dual aspects — resource management and battle tactics. Europa Universalis 4, however, takes a leap by simulating nuanced concepts prevalent in a medieval European kingdom.
With elaborate politics, inheritance scenarios, economic ties, alliances, and blocks, EU4 provides players with the reins of a nation. The mode of asserting dominance — be it through economic prowess, political subversion, or classic battles — rests entirely on the player's choice.
Stellaris
Stellaris catapults players into the realm of a future space-faring era. The game assigns players control over a species and government in an interstellar setting set against the post-discovery of faster-than-light travel, which spins a gigantic web of opportunity. The measures of success in Stellaris differ vastly from other games, and various factors come into play to gauge a player's progress.
From reigning supreme in the universe, triggering a crisis, and amassing resources to co-existing as a peaceful entity, Stellaris offers a myriad of possibilities. Adding more depth to the game's narrative, Stellaris allows players to craft a backstory for their empire.
Endless Legend
Fantasy meets tactical gaming in Endless Legend, the brainchild of the creators of Endless Space. Tasking players with the quest to conquer the world of Auriga with one of the 14 available races, Endless Legend employs diplomacy, warfare, technology development, and exploration.
Territory control forms a crucial facet of the overall strategy, with city placements in strategic locations being a key gameplay element. The variety in gameplay approaches enriches the game experience, making it truly immersive.