How do global strategies differ from ordinary ones? Its scale. In them we manage a huge state, an empire or the whole world, solving a large number of problems. The most popular are global strategies on a regular PC. There were attempts to transfer such projects to consoles, but the controls were not so hot, and gamers did not particularly like it.
Even such a niche category of games has hundreds of projects that are difficult to understand just by reading the description. So that you don’t waste time and choose a game to play within a few minutes, we have selected the best global computer strategies. Read their short review and then make your choice. Go!
Stellaris - conquering space
Let's start with a global 4X real-time strategy, where you need to develop in outer space, populating planet after planet. The game world is procedurally generated, and therefore each new playthrough will be unique and bring fresh impressions. In addition, with procedural generation, the gamer influences the development of the world. So, the realism of the game is worthy of praise.
Here you will be engaged in construction, influence the political life of the empire, and manage one or several planets at the same time. You will also have to ensure that each faction lives in peace, happy with its position. The role of a galactic emperor is a million times more complex than that of an earthly emperor. Therefore, get ready for real tests.
If you have not encountered the grand strategy genre before, you will almost certainly have difficulties in terms of control and understanding of what is happening on the screen. In order to understand all this, you will have to read guides and watch video after video from experienced gamers explaining the intricacies of the gameplay. At first it will not be easy to watch and play, but as soon as your knowledge becomes deep, you will be happy to delve into the development of the space state and achieve considerable success.
Galactic Civilizations 3 - feuds on a galactic scale
The third part of the popular series continues what the developers laid down from the very beginning. There won’t be any here either, but, on the other hand, the player’s role in fleet construction has been increased. Now you can control much more processes and influence the quality of finished mechanisms. This game can be called both a simulator and an economic strategy. But, first of all, this is a global military strategy in a space setting. You choose a planet with warlike inhabitants, and then lead your charges to victory over numerous enemies.
The project is worthy of adding to our list of the best global strategies, because the mechanisms of government management are well developed here. You can control the smallest processes, from mining minerals to installing additional armor shields on warships.
You may have to spend a lot of time learning all the functionality, but a life-saving video or written guide will help you figure it out. As expected, there is a cooperative here, so feel free to call your friends and start building a new wonderful world in the vast expanses of the galaxy.
Master of Orion - manage colonies
This game was released in 1996, but can still bring a lot of pleasure to fans of grand strategy games. Here the player can take control of one of the races and lead it to prosperity, extracting resources, fighting enemies and capturing new territories. The project is suitable for those who do not pay attention to graphics and value gameplay first.
The gamer will have to make an important choice at the very beginning - to choose the ideal race. The fact is that each race has characteristics, using which you can achieve good results. On the other hand, if you lose sight of these features and “bend” your line, nothing will work out. A good tip is to study all the information about the races before starting the game. And then move on.
Interestingly, some of the processes here are borrowed from a more popular member of the “Association of Global Strategies” - “Civilization” became the inspiration for the developers who created a similar management system. Thus, it became possible to redistribute the inhabitants of the planet and set a specific occupation for each group. Someone will engage in agriculture, someone will be entrusted with industrial production, and so on.
Total War Warhammer 2 - the perfect strategy
Since the news appeared about the creation of the second part of the sensational fantasy offshoot “Total War”, the game has become the main object of discussion on thematic forums. Articles on popular resources, one after another, talked about how large-scale and fantastically spectacular the project would be. It was argued that the developers took all the best from the first part and decided to create the coolest strategy of our time. In fact, that’s what happened!
What are the strategies from “Total War” so famous for? In them, you not only manage your wards on a global map and take care of the economy. When times get tough, you can take an army and go cut down the enemy in real time on a real map with tens of thousands of units participating! That's why the series' projects always top the top global strategies. Those same cinematic massive battles that sent shivers down your spine, thanks to “Total War”, became available on the computer. From year to year, developers created new engines and improved them. With the release of the second part of “Warhammer” based on the legendary universe, it became clear that now this is one of the most advanced strategies in all respects. The graphics are off the charts, the functionality is excellent, and the musical accompaniment is amazing.
Of course, there are some small bugs and shortcomings, without mentioning which the review and description of the project would be too biased. But it is worth noting that the creators are in close contact with the community and quickly respond to all comments. The result is that updates with fixes are constantly being released.
Sid Meier's Civilization VI - build a civilization
Already the sixth part of the strategy that has conquered the world has been released on personal computers and is delighting fans of the genre. For those who have never heard of “Civilization” - this is a global economic turn-based strategy where you can play for different cultures and civilizations. The gameplay is not real time, so there is some time to think. Conquer the world section by section. There are an incredible number of strategic possibilities:
- control construction;
- arm the army;
- conduct research;
- create new technologies;
- distribute resources wisely and so on.
This is probably the best turn-based simulator of the development of the world from ancient times to the space age. It is unlikely that there will be a project that can compete with “civa” in this regard.
Of course, a good player learns first. Here this rule works perfectly. First, you need to find a training video on all the functions of the interface. This will be a good foundation for the future ruler of the world. But you don’t have to watch the video, figuring everything out on your own. If you wish, you can invite your friends and arrange a showdown on a global scale in the co-op.
Europa Universalis IV - huge map
In the genre of top turn-based global computer strategies, this is a real gem. When gamers are asked how Europa Universalis differs from the rest, they answer: “It has a very developed economic component.” Indeed, although war has a special meaning in this game world, it requires a large amount of funds to wage it. Using many interface functions, you will manage the economic life of the state on the global map and lead it to victory over the rest of the participants in the global conflict.
For the PC platform, Europa Universalis is well optimized, but weaker computers may experience difficulties - too many scripts are executed after each move.
The term 4X (global strategy) appeared, we explored, expanded, exploited and destroyed (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) - that is, we lived in fantasy worlds. The genre has been experiencing something of a renaissance over the last five years, and while it's great to have options, you shouldn't mindlessly grab everything.
Not every grand strategy title is a game for everyone, so I've taken a look at all the major titles that have come out over the past few years and tried to summarize why you might (or might not) want to play them.
Make your move
Let's start with something unusual. Dominions 5 is a 4X game about warrior gods and their fantastic armies. At the very beginning of the game you create a deity. This deity may take the form of a furious dragon or a magical stone. Step by step, you gather armies, recruit wizards to search for apocalyptic spells, and distract the attention of the other gods.
The graphics in the game are, let’s say, old school. You'll need to scour the community files to find a decent custom map. But if you do this, and also read the instructions for the game, you will get a detailed strategy that creates crazy stories. In 4X games I'm used to controlling spaceships and cavalry, but only in the Dominions game I can send friendly troops of satyrs, wyverns, elemental spirits and ghosts against the Atlanteans. After a few trial games, you should be able to beat the AI in the game without any problems. But the game really shines in multiplayer.
Who is the game suitable for?: People are willing to put up with poor graphics in order to get a detailed magic system and control over great and diverse factions.
A unique blend of 4X and real-time, Rebellion has a faster pace than the rest of the list. Not only is it a standalone expansion, but it's also an improved version of Sins, so you don't have to worry about finding the original.
Who is the game suitable for?: For current RTS fans who want to get into 4X, and gamers who like to hit the ground running while maintaining a high pace of play. However, some home turn-based generals may find it a bit chaotic.
This turn-based fantasy grand strategy revolves around the characters Heroes and a faction leader called the sovereign, who can undertake RPG-style quests and is involved in many aspects of management beyond just combat.
Who is the game suitable for?: Fans of classic RPGs will feel right at home thanks to the local quest system, while customizable fantasy armies will likely attract the attention of fans of Warhammer and Hordes miniatures.
One of the most interesting features of the Endless Space universe (and its sequel). Much has to do with the ancient empire known as the Endless, and the quasi-magical Dust they left behind.
Who is the game suitable for?: A good entry point into space 4X, yet still able to challenge experienced players, and a compelling story for anyone interested in a good story beyond galactic domination.
If we crowned the autocrat of global strategies, there would be few competitors in the struggle for the throne. Take and lead one of the civilizations through the centuries from antiquity to modern times, trying to achieve different victory conditions - there is simply no equal in this famous series.
Who is the game suitable for?: Given the release of Civ 6, it's hard to recommend its predecessor, but the "five" often appears on sale at ridiculously low prices, so if you're not sure that you'll like the series, give it a try without dropping the full price on the new product. It is rightfully called a great game, especially the “Brave New World” add-on.
While most of the other games on our list place the player in a randomly generated world or galaxy, EU4 recreates an unusually deep model of the Earth from 1444 to 1821. You can lead any nation on the planet, from France to the Comanches, leading them through centuries of colonization, exploration and technological discovery.
Who is the game suitable for?: Considering the high praise the game has received, it's easier to say who it won't suit. The complexity of the simulation and the intricate systems of trade, war and diplomacy can be intimidating for newcomers to grand strategy games, but EU4's interface and tips do everything to help you get involved in the process and feel at least comfortable in it.
Take on the role of a demigod, fighting with your kin for control of the fragments remaining from a destroyed world. Eador is another 4X game that's hard to categorize, as it has 4X elements, RPG elements, and even tactical turn-based elements similar to board games.
Who is the game suitable for?: Eador's greatest strength is how it's structured compared to other grand strategy games. The game's world is broken down into shards, each of which is a smaller version of the strategy map in games like Total War or , giving you the opportunity to enjoy something different from the standard huge maps or masses of static planets in endless space.
Having transferred the formula, you are given the role of head of the first human colony on the alien planet, where you will have to lead its development and compete with other colonial concerns. The game mechanics will seem very familiar to you if you've played Civ 5.
Who is the game suitable for?: In my opinion, this is not a very good departure from the Civilization series, since Beyond Earth lacks the elements that made its relatives successful. While it does have some cool stuff, like a non-linear tech system that allows you to take your futuristic technology in many different directions, the game feels like a big-budget Civ 5 mod and fails to hold the player's attention for more than a couple of dozen hours.
Much like its sci-fi counterpart Endless Space, the epic story of Endless Legend is set in a richly detailed world with its own characters and backstory. Civilizations are highly customizable, and each has its own distinctive capabilities.
Who is the game suitable for?: Based on the time-tested elements of 4X, it was not afraid to go bigger and mix them up in a way that even old players who were already tired of the genre became interested. In addition, EL will be welcomed by those who are eager to explore a superbly crafted fantasy world in a new and interesting setting.
Warlock is very close to how I imagined a high-quality reworking of Civilization in a fantasy way. All the neutral factions on the map serve a greater purpose than just being an annoyance at the very beginning of the game.
Who is the game suitable for?: Due to its relative simplicity and adherence to genre templates, Warlock is a good first step for those who want to join the ranks of fantasy grand strategy fans. In addition, it has good humor, in comparison with such more severe and majestic colleagues as Endless Legend and Fallen Enchantress.
Allowing you to explore the stars in real time with the ability to pause, Distant Worlds boasts one of the strongest models of civilian economy (able to run on autopilot while you manage political objectives) that I have seen in a grand strategy game.
Who is the game suitable for?: In addition to being an overall great 4X strategy game, Distant Worlds is able to attract those players who value the ability to explore. The strategy succeeds where many other sci-fi games have failed: here space truly feels endless.
Like Sins of a Solar Empire, this game can also be written into 4X/RTS hybrids. It stands out for its deeply developed systems of diplomacy and planetary development.
Who is the game suitable for?: Star Ruler 2 is close to the maximum in its difficulty, and the huge amount of minute control of systems available to the player looks simply intimidating for a beginner. However, if you're a fan of massively animated space battles, the game may be worth the candle.
A contender for the title of “blockbuster” among global strategies, GalCiv III is by far the most polished and expensive project.
Who is the game suitable for?: If you're tired of the monotonous victory conditions, then one of the biggest positive changes that appeared in the series was the transformation of "victory" into a set of goals from which you can choose the appropriate one, which greatly diversifies the gameplay.
The first truly global strategy transferred to space. Stellaris takes the historic Paradox formula to the stars, allowing you to control the military, political and economic aspects of your space empire.
Who is the game suitable for?: Fans of grand strategy games will feel right at home in Stellaris, but players accustomed to more traditional 4X games will need to take some time to get the hang of it. The game focuses much more heavily on politics, and elements like the form of government and the will of citizens play a significant role in it.
The most recent incarnation of the famous series doesn't have a lot of innovation, but it still plays well, justifying the decent price with big-name voice actors.
Who is the game suitable for?: Despite its novelty, MoO is a typical global strategy, since its predecessor in 1996, improved only by new graphics. An excellent start for absolute beginners, and even seasoned ones get a shiver when John de Lancie cries about the war that is brewing between his empire and yours.
The game builds on the best ideas of its predecessor, this time offering even more unique stories for each of the interstellar empires.
Who is the game suitable for?: By this point on the list, it should come as no surprise that true connoisseurs of interactive storytelling should pounce on anything with the word “Endless” in its name. Endless Space 2 is perhaps a better introduction to the genre than the first game, as it has greatly improved the way it delivers immediately relevant information to the player.
Civilization has emerged from its cocoon to reveal the most incredible transformation and fresh approach in the history of the series. Plus, Sean Bean is there.
Who is the game suitable for?: Yes for anyone who likes . What can you add about Civ 6 that hasn't already been said? Even the most seasoned veterans of the series will find many new challenges and opportunities in it, but the game remains one of the most beginner-friendly grand strategy games.
Each of these games has one constant algorithm: expand, explore, exploit, destroy. The order of actions may change, but the goal remains the same - power, control and dominance.
We present to your attention the best global strategies on PC - this selection will be of interest both to neophytes who have never heard of anything other than “Civilization,” and to oldfags who will be able to put aside their well-worn imperial wands and look for a new position.
15. Anno 2205
14. Age Of Wonders 3
Role-playing game, turn-based tactics and global strategy in one magical bottle. It can be called a fantasy analogue of “Civilization”, but unlike the brainchild of Sid Meier, there are no peaceful ways of victory here. If you want to win, if you please, fight long and hard with elves, gnomes, orcs and other fairy-tale lads. Combat actions take place on separate tactical mini-maps in the spirit of King's Bounty, and in a mass format. In practice, this means that when attacking one hex, all neighboring armies are pulled onto the battlefield, which ultimately results in a bloody battle, often with siege weapons. There are also spells - there is a whole library of them. They use both banal curses and blessings and exotic things, like calling out the enemies of global warming.
13. Warlock II: The Exiled
Another fantasy clone of “Civilization” with a map of hexagons, focused on the military component. The game has both a classic global map and an unusual “Exile” mode, in which the world is presented in the form of tiny shards connected by portals. Starting development with one fragment, you need to capture a whole chain of worlds, while simultaneously fighting off crowds of monsters from parallel worlds and competing magicians. This project was released on PC relatively recently - in 2014, and not just like that, but under the wing of Paradox Interactive - a company that ate the dog in global strategies. Yes, Warlock II: The Exiled has problems (the stupid AI especially stands out), but this game definitely deserves its place in the top thanks to its unusual setting and powerful editor.
12. Star Ruler 2
A galactic epic with a giant map, animated starship fleet battles and meticulous micromanagement. The volume of all kinds of tabs, tables and parameters looks simply intimidating, so it is recommended only for experienced commanders to meddle with this strategy. And this despite the fact that you cannot control specific planets in the game (this rule does not apply to resource extraction). The mechanics of Star Ruler 2 constantly push the player to expand the borders of the empire, so it’s not possible to just sit on the defensive here. Space battles take place mainly in automatic mode, but if you wish, you can personally take part in them as commander-in-chief. Despite some secondary features, Star Ruler 2's rating is quite high, not least thanks to the original (card) diplomacy system.
11. Space Empires V
It's not even a game, it's more of a simulator simulating a galactic civilization with a hundred aspects in physics, culture, economics and cosmology. There's about as much entertainment as an astronomy textbook, but that's what makes Space Empires 5 so appealing. Already at the stage of generating the universe, your eyes will be dazzled by the number of settings, and if you are somehow brought into the user manual, then you will find 300 pages of neat text there. This turn-based strategy game has a huge tech tree, a powerful ship editor, and solid diplomatic mechanics where there are no pure alliances or bitter enemies.
10. Hearts of Iron 3
Compared to space grand strategies, this game fits into a relatively short period of time - from 1936 to 1948. But during this time you will be able to completely redraw the map of Europe, and maybe the world, and it is not at all necessary to play for the main players in the Second World War. The project is distinguished by amazing attention to detail and, in fact, is a visual historical guide to the events of this period. Warfare in Hearts of Iron 3 is so large-scale that you need to resort to the help of AI, although in the most critical areas you will have to take matters into your own hands. Another reason to download the game is the extremely detailed technology tree, which, if desired, can be used to track the entire path of development of technology and theories of military operations.
9. Crusader Kings 2
A simulator of a wise ruler, the events of which take place in the period from 1066 to 1453. Paradox Interactive went for a bold experiment: instead of leading a nation state, we are offered to manage dynasties, which, upon closer examination, are a huge snake tangle consisting of intrigues, grievances, hereditary disputes and dynastic marriages. At the bottom of the food chain are counts with small plots of land, above are dukes, even higher are kings, and at the top is the emperor. To feel comfortable in this mess, you need to be simultaneously a master of political acrobatics, a virtuoso spy and a brilliant military strategist. This is not the best strategy from Paradoxes, but it is definitely the most unusual.
8. Endless Space 2
A global strategy can be beautiful – this is proven by the developers from the French studio Amplitude. Taking the classic 4X rules as a basis, these guys have created a game with a great visual style and musical accompaniment. Space looks amazing here, and even creating outposts on planets allows you to enjoy their unearthly landscapes. The game was released in 2017, so it is very demanding on hardware, especially in the later stages, when the galaxy is almost completely explored. The only fly in the ointment is the inability to directly influence the course of battles. Perhaps this function will be added in the third part.
7. Endless Legend
The strategy takes place in the world of Endless Space 2, but not in space, but on one of the planets. Here you will find a dark mix of fantasy and technology, eight distinctive races and clear rules borrowed from Civilization. Each race has its own plot, which develops as the game progresses and is replete with references to the history of Auriga and the confrontation between the local inhabitants. Wars here are not limited to maneuvers on the global map - when two armies collide, a turn-based tactical mode is activated, vaguely similar to Disciples. Separately, it is worth noting the army designer, in which you can equip units with various equipment, and the change of seasons, which significantly affects the performance of races on the global map.
6. Stellaris
This time, Paradox Interactive took the signature elements of global simulators and dragged them into space, adding random technology research and the successful idea of administrative sectors that are controlled by autonomous AI to the list of innovations. Otherwise, Stellaris is an excellent example of a 4X strategy, with a huge map, battles of colossal fleets and a flexible diplomacy system. If you don’t know what it’s like to become a vassal of a stronger empire, live under its yoke for several hundred years, picking up scraps from its table, and then devour your master, then this game will explain everything to you.
5. Galactic Civilizations 3
This game returned to PC 10 years after the release of the previous part (in 2015), but did not lose its signature features. As complex as creating a mosaic, planetary construction, a system of race ideology with perks, designing ships with a flexible system of defensive and attacking modules, time-tested automatic battles - Stardock simply took and improved everything that could be improved. The result is an excellent 4X strategy that can compete on equal terms with modern projects. Recommended for those who like to tinker with the ship editor and fans of grandiose space battles.
4.Master of Orion 2
A magnificent example, in fact, one that stood at the origins of the genre. It has everything an armchair strategist needs: a race designer, ship construction, a variety of technologies and strong (even by today's standards) artificial intelligence. Some will find the game archaic (and not surprising, since it was released in 1996), some will not be happy with the small map, some will smile condescendingly at the sight of primitive wall-to-wall ground battles, but all these are trifles that are not worth attention. Master of Orion 2 is a cult global strategy with almost endless replayability, a must-play for all fans of the genre.
3. Total War: Warhammer 2
When one studio spends decades perfecting the only series in its repertoire, the result is obvious. Each game in the Total War series (with the possible exception of the Napoleonic Wars) is better than the previous one, and Warhammer 2 is the crown of the developers’ efforts. Even if you don't take into account the magnificent picture and extremely realistic battles on tactical maps, there are still a thousand reasons to download this game. For example, the largest global map in the history of the series, a full-fledged storyline, or a huge variety of races. Yes, there are only 4 basic factions available for the game: elves, dark elves, lizardmen and skaven, but the old races from the first part have not gone away. An excellent reason to check who is stronger, gnomes, ratmen or vampires.
2. Civilization VI
The sixth part of “Civilization” did not bring revolutionary changes to the series - the Firaxis studio is slowly but surely moving the series forward without sudden movements. This is still the same good old “civa” with a scientific race, urban expansion and extremely active diplomacy. Of the innovations, the most noticeable is the zoning of cities, which in turn leads to their specialization. As usual, you can win here in several ways: cultural, scientific, diplomatic, military. The latter, of course, is the most interesting, but also the most difficult, since it requires a huge investment of resources and time. If you are not yet familiar with the series, Civilization VI is a good reason to try yourself in the role of a historical ruler.
1. Europa Universalis IV
This game naturally takes first place in the list of the best global strategies. Compared to other games in the genre, Europa Universalis IV is much more complex, wider and more realistic. Political intrigue, espionage, dynastic connections, a sophisticated economy and trading system... you won't find a more complete simulator of a medieval ruler. This is the pinnacle of all Paradox Interactive activities, which has served as a model for other 4X strategy developers since 2013. Yes, the barrier to entry into the game is extremely high, but if you are strong enough to break through hundreds of incomprehensible buttons and tabs, you will find a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the intricacies of medieval European politics.
The beauty of a good 4X strategy game (grand strategy game) is most likely obvious to those who consider themselves fans of the genre; this genre is extremely replayable and so addictive that the time in the game flies by. It must be said that thematically the genre is quite limited - you get a galactic, historical or fantasy theme - but the main gameplay: expand, explore, exploit, exterminate (4X - expand, explore, exploit, exterminate), works in all themes. These games are about building an empire and crushing anyone who doesn't bend to your will. No wonder they are so exciting.
Players new to the genre may not know where to start, and will naturally want to choose something more accessible - such as Civilization 5 - since grand strategy games are often chock full of complex systems and require some time to master. However, veterans of the genre will finally be able to put aside their fleet of carefully designed spaceships and look for something new. With the genre becoming more popular today than it has ever been before, our list of the best grand strategy games will include games for all players, new and old.
Civilization 5
Let's face it, you knew she was going to be on the list - you probably even assumed she would be first on the list, right? This game series, each time receiving a new part in this franchise, has been dominating the 4X - grand strategy genre for many years. With the release of Civ 5, the series is perhaps the most accessible and understandable it's ever been, without losing any of its underlying depth. The introduction of combat on a hexagonal map was perhaps the most significant change in the series, resulting in the game's battles becoming more strategic in nature, previously admittedly involving packing a bunch of horsemen into a single square and sending them into the city. There are some downsides, notably a crappy political system, but the game is currently selling very well on Steam and you'll likely end up spending at least a hundred hours with it.
In this game you have to take on the role of commander-in-chief, raise your nation from its knees and lead it to triumph. From the very beginning you will be managing a handful of ignorant people. But, with a little effort in completing the game campaign, unique opportunities will open up for you. Your small settlement will turn into an entire empire with valiant warriors and loyal servants. Once you have an impressive army, your enemies will tremble with fear at the sight of your flag, and your allies will gladly come to your aid in difficult times.
Endless Legend
While Endless Legend may look like a Civilization clone, the game is actually a fresh take on the grand strategy genre. The fantasy elements (expect to see giant sandworms and hulking ogres) certainly help it stand out, but its unique approach to managing regions is what really makes Endless Legend feel like something new. Usually in global strategies you, in an attempt to gobble up all the resources, try to capture as many cities as possible as quickly as possible, but in Endless Legend in this aspect it is better to behave more methodically, it will be more useful to maximize the effectiveness of any particular region. The fact that each faction is unique, from the units you can use to the quests you are given to complete, means that you will have much more replay value than in the same Civilization.
Galactic Civilizations 3
Age Of Wonders 3
Age of Wonders 3 is a real fantasy strategy that includes spectacular battles, challenging campaigns, construction, the study of science, diplomacy and much more. Following in the footsteps of Heroes Of Might & Magic, Age Of Wonders 3 combines a robust city management system with deep, tactical combat on a hexagonal map. The game leans heavily on the last item on this list, which is actually a good thing as this aspect of the gameplay is truly top notch. Performance is especially important in managing the forces you can take into battle, but unit Tiers increase and each unit has unique qualities and benefits, meaning that the high-tier units that see most major engagements will be quite By the way. While, starting from the third part, this was not so important in Heroes of Might and Magic, Age Of Wonders 3 does a good job of recreating this very specific style of grand strategy games.
Distant Worlds: Universe
The barrier to entry into this game is quite high, the fact is that the game has simple graphics, and an incredibly steep learning curve. However, give it time, it deserves to be explored and you will see that Distant Worlds is one of the deepest and most genre-enriching grand strategy games out there. You'll have a huge universe to conquer (if you want to play it), a huge selection of customizable ships and stations, and something rare in the 4X genre - an exciting economy system that is surprisingly fun to create and maintain.
This game is truly capable of surprising; in it you will find an incredibly realistic galaxy with planets, asteroids, merchants, pirates, etc. If you manage to meet a merchant, you are lucky, because if you come across pirates, in most cases they will demand a ransom, or open fire to kill. The main feature is that you have to establish contacts with many races, raise the economy of the planet, trade, sell, intrigue, kill and much more. Distant Worlds won't win any awards for its looks, but if you're looking for something with extremely rich and challenging gameplay, this is a game worth checking out.
Star Ruler 2
Star Ruler 2 features real-time (RTS) gameplay, but don't let that fool you - the grand strategy mechanics here are incredibly rich. For example, the political game is very well implemented and gives the player a sense of satisfaction when interacting with other factions. The economics elements are also surprisingly well implemented and rely on you carefully cultivating planets and developing them to their maximum potential. There's a shipbuilding module where you draw armor, weapons and even the interior of ships on a hex grid - it's not a difficult system to understand, so it's easy to learn and use, but at the same time it retains the necessary complexity.
AI War: Fleet Command
So, AI War is a little old these days, but the game has received DLC updates over the years to keep it fresh - not that it needs that help, because the game idea is so fresh and original that until then there won't be a direct sequel, you probably won't want to play another similar global strategy game. It must be said that the graphics will not win you over and there is not much variety in terms of 4X gaming systems, but instead of creating an impressive economy, collecting numerous resources or convincing opponents of your political prowess, the emphasis is on a massive, thousand-strong fleet of ships - to explore, expand and, ultimately destroy powerful AI forces that want to destroy you. It's not much, but each new game persistently intrigues and encourages you to become more powerful each time.
Thea: The Awakening
But this global strategy is cunning, because Thea doesn't really meet all the criteria to be considered a full "4X" - its "expand" function is strictly limited. But the yoke is still interesting; Slavic mythology gives it a unique atmosphere and world, but what really sets it apart from other games in the genre is the emphasis on crafting. In this sense, Thea ( Thea) is a little more RPG than other typical grand strategy games, but this gives it its own personality, making it a good choice for fans of the genre looking for something new. Everything is tied to the resource gathering and crafting system, from the technology tree that unlocks new resources for construction to simple, but card-based combat - which, if successful, rewards you with the necessary materials. The game requires a lot of micromanagement and therefore has a rather slow pace, but overall the game has something new to offer those looking for it.
Endless Space
Infinite Space places the player in the role of ruler of a nascent space civilization, and gives the player the opportunity to cultivate their space empire through a variety of ways and means to suit your playstyle. The essence of the game is familiar to everyone who has played 4X strategy games before. You explore technologies from a large list. You manage systems and planets, drawing up projects for their development. You build a fleet, colonize suitable planets, engage in diplomacy, and fight wars.
Events will develop throughout the galaxy; before starting the game, you will need to choose a race and planet from which you will actually begin the colonization of the galaxy. Depending on the chosen race, you will find completely different playstyles, some races prefer brutal battles or trade, while others love financial fraud and exploration. Having “upgraded” your planet, you can colonize another at any time, thereby expanding your possessions and becoming an even more powerful and dangerous rival. Endless Space has several features and mechanics that set it apart from its competitors and allow it to rival any AAA game.
Total War series
TotalWar is a universal strategy that has absorbed all the best, namely thoughtful turn-based battles taking place in real time, so get ready, it will be hot. The country will be controlled on the world map in a step-by-step mode, but the battles will take you to a huge location where you will have to lead your warriors to victory in real time. As expected, there is no pause in the game, so if you start a battle, please finish it or give up, but your people are unlikely to like this. Separately, it is worth noting the quality of graphics and the realism of combat operations. In battles with enemies, impressive spectacles with the participation of several thousand warriors await you.
Master of Orion 2
Despite the fact that this game was released back in 1996, not many modern global strategies can boast of having such a diverse content as in this legendary game. It is worth noting the complex gameplay of the game, Master of Orion 2 focuses on the development of an alien civilization based on economic, technological and social development. Players can choose between different races or create their own race with a set of strengths and weaknesses. Players can even design their own ships based on available technologies.
You will play the role of a ruler, commander, architect, philosopher, strategist and much more. To surpass other states, you will need to study unique technologies that will help you master invaluable knowledge. Since victory is the main priority, you can choose one of three possible paths: kill all enemies, capture Antares, where the enemies of the entire galaxy live, or win peacefully. The first two options are obvious and there is nothing complicated about them, but the third involves seizing power by creating commercial coalitions. If you manage to unite all the planets, sooner or later the civilian population will decide to elect a president for themselves, and here you will have to take part in a real election race. If you manage to get the most votes, you will be declared president and “HappyEnd” will begin. Regardless of the choice made, the star Orion will always be present on the intergalactic map. It does not affect the progress of the game in any way, but if you manage to visit it first, you will gain impressive technological advantages, and you will be proudly called “Master of Orion”.
Galactic Civilizations 2
Galactic Civilizations 2 is one of the few global strategies that combines combat, economic development, science, culture, space exploration and, of course, political interventions. The game may surprise you in that the backstory of Galactic Civilizations 2 is based on a series of short stories written by its creator, Brad Wardell. While the game doesn't have the most original setting, it does provide an interesting backdrop for a great strategy game.
Depending on your preferences, you can devote yourself to science, establish contacts with politicians, or hire a powerful army and colonize one planet after another. To get clear advantages in a particular industry, you will have to choose one of 10 races that have more than 20 unique abilities. While developing your planet, you will have to study more than 200 technologies and build 50 different structures. While exploring space on your way you will meet 26 unique and unusual planets, radically different in culture, economy, relationships, faith and, of course, appearance. Separately, it is worth noting the well-thought-out artificial intelligence, so that, regardless of your professional qualities, you will certainly choose the appropriate difficulty for yourself (there are 12 in total). If you like to create rare things, you will have a unique ship editor at your disposal, allowing you to realize any fantasy. This global strategy is the embodiment of versatility and balance, because at this moment you can be the ruler of the world, and an hour later die, in the hope of subjugating another planet.
Hearts of Iron Series
Hearts of Iron is a unique global strategy that immerses you in the brutal struggle between the USSR and Germany. To win, you need to attract as many third-party states as possible, since without their firepower you cannot defeat the enemy. If you sympathize with Germany, you can try to go over to their side and try to implement Hitler’s daring plan. Depending on your beliefs, you have the right to choose one of three political directions: fascism, democracy or communism. Absolutely everything will depend on this choice: from the army to the methods of combat. The good news is that the developers have created more than 1000 commanders who actually existed, and their manners and behavior are based on real people, so you have to get to know each one, because you can only win a battle with an experienced commander. If you are familiar with history, you can choose any period of time, the differences lie in battles and new technologies. As for the army, you will have infantry, riflemen, tanks, cavalry, artillery, air defense and much more at your disposal. The main highlight is the unique technologies that open up new types of weapons and methods of combat. If you get tired of completing missions, at any time you can create your own unique map with many details and try to defeat your opponent on your own terms.
Europa Universalis 3.4
Europa Universalis 3, 4 is a unique global strategy, in which you will need to take control of one of the world states on any day of world history starting from May 30, 1453 to July 14, 1789 (this period is expanded in additions). At your disposal will be well-thought-out diplomacy, thanks to which you can enter into alliances, conduct peace negotiations, declare war, take prisoners, demand ransom and much more. In addition to resolving diplomatic issues, you need to find time for construction, because you can only gain recognition if you have a developed province. Europa Universalis will certainly appeal to leisurely and diligent tacticians, because to win you need to have these very qualities. This is because most of the time you will have to observe, and only then make important decisions that could lead to unforeseen circumstances.
In general, you are responsible for the whole state, and how exactly to develop it depends only on you. You can hire warriors and capture your neighbors, or go in search of new lands and become the happy owner of valuable treasures. To understand all the nuances you will have to work hard, since the game has a lot of indicators that can turn a prosperous city into real ruins. You will have to monitor the economy, trade, fatigue, joy, anger, honor traditions, etc. Due to the large abundance of information, you should always have a backup plan, because everything can go wrong at any moment. As in any global strategy, bloody battles await you in this game, but they are not a priority, because you can influence the situation in dozens of different ways. Of course, you can punish the offender, but you should not neglect the fact that neighbors can unite against you.
It might be worth noting that classics like Heroes of Might and Magic 3 and Master Of Orion 2 are still as playable and fun as they once were (there's even an HD re-release of HOMM3 if you're interested...). But still, if you think that there are global strategies that you think we missed and really need to be added, just let us know about it in the comments
26.08.2018 Pavel Makarov
One of the first strategies with the development of civilization was Sid Meier’s Civilization, released in 1991. The game was developed by MPS Labs and published by MicroProse. The player had to develop the chosen people. As the game progresses, you need to study technology, engage in diplomacy, participate in wars and develop the economy. The setting included the historical period from the primitive system to the near future.
Civilization was the game that founded the turn-based grand strategy genre with elements of economic, political and scientific development. Sid Meier's Civilization introduced the concept of a "tech tree" for the first time. In this article, we invite you to get acquainted with modern representatives of the genre of games in which you need to develop your civilization.
Sid Meier's Civilization V
Release date: 2010
Genre: global turn-based strategy with the development of civilization
Developer: Firaxis Games
Publisher: 2K
The player's task is to lead his civilization to one of the types of victory. Types of victory in Civilization: military, diplomatic, scientific and cultural. Turn-based strategy (TBS) develops on a global map consisting of hexes. Some hexes are allocated for various resources and improvements. The other part is under the Wonders of the World, city-states or controlled by competitors.
Two major expansions were released for the game: Gods & Kings and Brave New World, introducing significant innovations to the game mechanics. Numerous additions with new civilizations and game maps have also been released.
A special feature of the game is access to a huge number of mods, which can be downloaded through the menu. Fans have created many scenarios, civilizations and maps, the variety of which can satisfy the most demanding tastes.
Some shortcomings include the weakness of the AI (however, common for most strategies), but this pales against the background of the many advantages of this wonderful game. Facts that speak of incredible popularity: more than 10 million copies sold and a Metacritic rating of 90 out of 100 on Metacritic.
Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings
Release date: 1999
Genre: tactical strategy with the development of a medieval kingdom
Developer: Ensemble Studios
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
This game is a continuation of one of the classic series in the RTS real-time strategy genre. She has won many awards. 2 million copies were sold in the first quarter of sales. The score on Metacritic was 92/100. The player has access to 13 civilizations with their own specifics to control. The Conquerors expansion added five more. There are also 5 companies in the game. Civilization passes through four eras, each of which opens up access to new units and improvements. The gameplay consists of building cities, collecting resources, and creating armies. As a result, it is necessary to defeat opponents by destroying their armies and destroying buildings.
In 2013, the game was re-released in an enhanced HD format, with significantly improved graphics. Later, three more DLCs were released in this format with new civilizations, maps and scenarios.
Forge of Empires
Release date: year 2012
Genre: online strategy with city development
Developer: InnoGames
Publisher: InnoGames
If you are not ready to get so involved in the intertwining of Sid Meier’s Civilization, but want to take people from the Stone Age to a world similar to science fiction, then there is a great option for you in the form of Forge of Empires. There is only one city on your shoulders. The game is available both for PC in the browser and for mobile platforms Android and IOS.
An important part of the gameplay is interaction with players around the world. Neighboring settlements may run away from you, but you are not fooled, you can answer!
Cossacks 3
Release date: 2016
Genre: tactical strategy with base development
Developer: GSC Game World
Publisher: GSC Game World
A remake of the 2001 classic RTS. The player has 12 countries to control, with 70 types of military units, 100 technologies and more than 140 historical buildings. Gameplay takes place in 17th and 18th century Europe, with units and weapons to match.
Cossacks 3 - screenshots
The peculiarity of the game is huge crowds of armies rushing across the map and being destroyed by the thousands in brutal, fast-paced battles. To win, army control must be combined with skillful management - the extraction of key resources and the construction of the necessary buildings.
For our time, the gameplay of Cossacks 3 is somewhat outdated, but for fans of the classics it can provide pleasant moments.
Total War: Rome II
Release date: year 2013
Genre: global strategy with the development of ancient civilization
Developer: Creative Assembly
Publisher: SEGA
Total War is one of the most famous series of PC games, familiar to every strategy lover. In this genre, only the Civilization series is on its level. Rome II is the eighth game in Total War, and one of the most successful. It combines the strategic mode on the global map, in which they deal with macro-management of resources, movements, assignments, with the tactical one, in which battles take place.
The company begins in 272 BC. and is designed for 300 years. The game features 117 different factions fighting across a huge map of 173 regions, spanning Asia, Africa and Europe.
The main types of troops of the Ancient World (cavalry, infantry, elephants, etc.) fight directly on the battlefield, taking into account the historical specifics of different factions (Greek phalanx, Roman legions, etc.). There are different types of battles available (siege, river battles, etc.), in which thousands of units fight.
In addition to the exciting gameplay, Rome II offers a lot of materials on the history of the Ancient World, especially its military part.
Stronghold Kingdoms
Release date: year 2012
Genre: online strategy with the development of a medieval state
Developer: FireFly Studios
Publisher: FireFly Studios
What is it like to manage a medieval castle? Stronghold Kingdoms tries to give the most simple but honest answer to this - this MMORTS (a genre that combines real-time strategy and multiplayer functionality) gives, although simplified, a complete idea of how to maintain your fortress with knights and dysentery.
One of the characteristic features of the game is that your successful passage depends not only on defeating computer antagonists, but also on interactions with other real gamers over the network.
Rise of Nations
Release date: 2003
Genre: turn-based strategy with RPG elements and non-linear plot
Developer: Big Huge Games
Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios
The game is similar in mechanics to Total War, combining strategic actions on a global map with direct command of troops in battle mode. Visually, it is much poorer than Total War, and in the field of combat and strategy it is inferior to this classic.
The player takes control of one of 18 nations, which he leads to victory through 8 historical eras of development. About 100 different units are available to him, and each faction has its own unique fighters.
In 2014, a re-release of the game was released, with updated graphics and multiplayer.
Europa Universalis IV
Release date: year 2013
Genre: global strategy with the development of civilization during the Renaissance
Developer: Paradox Development Studio
Publisher: Paradox Interactive
Global strategy from Paradox, one of the leading strategy developers.
The game covers the period from the late Middle Ages to the Early Modern era.
Gaming takes place taking into account real historical events (geographical discoveries, etc.). To achieve victory, the player must skillfully combine trade, diplomacy, colonization and military action.
The game features a strong Paradox-style strategy component, with a comparatively poor military component. There are no tactical battles, and the game only takes place on the global map. In this form, the game is similar to chess.
The “trick” of Europa Universalis IV is that the process depends on random events, both positive and negative, that are generated every year.
Vikings: War of Clans
Release date: 2015
Genre: MMO strategy with the development of a Viking settlement
Developer: Plarium
Publisher: Plarium
If you often watch videos on YouTube, then you have long known that if strategies from the nineties and early 2000s are dear to your heart, you should definitely try Vikings: War of Clans. Such intrusive, monotonous advertising can discourage anyone from trying out the game.
But for some reason, there are several times more people playing it than there ever were Vikings. And all because this is a thoughtful military strategy in which you equally get pleasure from profitable alliances with other players and from the thoughtless plunder of their lands.
Release date: year 2012
Genre: global strategy with the development of your own dynasty in the setting of medieval Europe
Developer: Paradox Development Studio
Publisher: Paradox Interactive
Another global strategy from Paradox, covering the Medieval period, from 1066 to 1453.
The peculiarity of the game is that it is a simulator of a dynasty, and not of a civilization or state. The player, using wars, marriages and murders, works hard on the global map to achieve the success of his dynasty and eliminate competitors.
14 DLCs have already been released, adding new dynasties, events and expanding the period of the game.
The game has similar strengths and weaknesses to Europa Universalis IV: a strong strategic component with advanced AI combined with a poor military component.
Throne: Kingdom At War
Release date: 2016
Genre: MMO strategy with the development of a medieval kingdom
Developer: Plarium
Publisher: Plarium
The world of Throne: Kingdom At War can be described as an abstract, fascinating Middle Ages without inquisitions, but with knights. In the game you create a Hero, and everything depends on him - he improves your possessions and controls your soldiers in battles.
Once upon a time, in the fictional kingdom of Amaria, a wise monarch ruled everything. But his death plunged everything into chaos, and the Hero is one of the fighters for control of his domain. You can explore new lands and conquer the rebellious. Anything until you yourself are overthrown.
Release date: 2010
Genre: global strategy with the development of civilization in the modern era
Developer: Paradox Development Studio
Publisher: Paradox Development
Another global strategy from Paradox. The game is more aimed at diligent fans. The player needs to spend many hours on political and economic decisions.
The player controls the state, combining its political, diplomatic, economic, military and technological aspects. The period of the game is 1836-1936. The game spans the entire Earth, with over 200 playable countries.
Victoria II is more focused on developing economic relations. The game has a complex system with more than 50 types of goods and factories, the prices of which are determined by millet and supply. In the realm of politics and diplomacy, the player interacts with 8 different types of governments and 7 ideologies. The military component, for which 20 types of ground and naval forces are responsible, is less important than in its counterparts.
Grand Ages Medieval
Release date: 2015
Genre: real-time strategy with the development of the economy of the Medieval state
Developer: Gaming Minds Studios
Publisher: Kalypso Media Digital
Not a very successful attempt to cross RTS with TBS. State governance is conducted on a global map in real time. The emphasis is on the economy, combat is less important. The factions are almost the same from each other, the battles are very boring, the only heavily developed part is trade. To build a strong economy, you need to carefully monitor commodity prices, compare alternatives, deal with logistics and trade protection.
Grand Ages Medieval can be called a trading strategy, to which war and other components were added “for show.”
Medieval II: Total War
Release date: 2006
Genre: global military strategy in the setting of medieval Europe
Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY
Publisher: SEGA
The fourth game in the Total War series, one of the pinnacles of the strategy genre.
The game covers the Middle Ages; There are 17 factions available in the company. In the process, it is necessary not only to fight competitors, but also to take into account global events corresponding to historical periods. For example, the invasions of the Mongols and Timur. Religion plays an important role on the global map. For example, the Pope may excommunicate you and declare a crusade against you. If the population of recently subjugated territories professes a religion different from yours, then there is a high probability of uprisings.
The system of agents responsible for the spread of religions, espionage and other components of victory has also been fully implemented. Decisive battles are best carried out manually, rather than using automatic calculation, and here you can notice that the game engine has been improved in Medieval II. The soldiers received individual content and a variety of combat techniques. This visually distinguishes the battles from the “clone wars” of previous games in the series.
In addition to our article, we suggest watching a detailed video review about other strategies on PC with the development of civilization, including settings from the primitive period to modern days.
