17 Best Turn Based Games (RPGs, Strategy & More)

Turn-based games are my favorite. What can I say — I hate the stress of immediate combat and love to think my moves through. Ironically, I’m very bad at chess.

And thankfully, there are many great turn-based RPGs and strategies out there. But then there’s also analysis paralysis. So, to save us all some time, I’ve rounded up my favorite turn-based games. Each of these has something special about them and I think you can find one to love no matter what.

Baldur’s Gate 3

Larian Studios pulled off something extraordinary with Baldur’s Gate 3 — a sprawling, cinematic RPG that doesn’t just nod to Dungeons & Dragons, it fully embodies it.

With a deeply tactical turn-based combat system lifted straight from D&D 5e, every fight feels like a high-stakes chess match with fireballs. But it’s not just about battles; BG3 sets a new standard for player choice, character interaction, and storytelling in the genre. This is turn-based strategy wrapped in one of the most reactive, richly written RPGs ever made.

You can see my full review (and all you can expect) here, but if you do decide to play it, I also have a few guides for it here.

Final Fantasy (all — or, well, most of them)

For decades, Final Fantasy has been the beating heart of turn-based RPGs. From the classic ATB (Active Time Battle) systems of FFIV through FFIX to the more experimental approaches in X and XII, the series constantly reinvented how turn-based combat could feel fresh, cinematic, and emotionally charged.

Final Fantasy X is particularly brilliant. While the newer entries (XV, XVI) have shifted to real-time combat, the series’ legacy in shaping turn-based RPG mechanics, storytelling, and genre-defining moments is untouchable. Want turn-based greatness with an iconic soundtrack, unforgettable characters, and a touch of magic? Start anywhere from FFVI to X and you’re golden.

Pillars of Eternity 1 and 2

While technically real-time with pause by default, Pillars of Eternity and its sequel earn a spot here thanks to their deep roots in tactical, party-based combat and the fact that Deadfire (PoE2) added an optional full turn-based mode.

These games are spiritual successors to Baldur’s Gate and Icewind Dale, packed with dense lore, rich worldbuilding, and class systems that reward strategic planning.

If you crave meaty CRPGs where positioning, spell synergy, and party composition really matter — and especially if you flip the switch to turn-based in Deadfire — then Pillars delivers a thoughtful, slow-burn experience that hits all the right notes.

Divinity: Original Sin 2

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is the kind of RPG that makes you feel like you’re part of a living, breathing world—where every choice you make actually matters. You’re not just fighting bad guys for loot; you’re navigating a complex world full of magic, intrigue, and morally gray decisions. 

The tactical combat is a dream for strategy lovers. It’s turn-based, but with a twist: you can use the environment to your advantage, like setting oil on fire or electrifying puddles. Each battle feels like a puzzle, and your success depends on how well you plan and adapt.

The game’s story is massive and rich, with plenty of twists and turns. And the best part? You get to choose who you want to be. The character customization is incredibly deep, and each choice you make feels impactful. 

Pathfinder Kingmaker

Pathfinder: Kingmaker is a love letter to classic CRPGs, built on the crunchy foundation of the Pathfinder tabletop system. It was originally released with real-time with pause combat, but it now features a full turn-based mode that transforms encounters into deliberate, strategic showdowns.

The game throws you into the deep end with dense mechanics, a massive skill tree, and punishing difficulty. Add in kingdom management, rich character builds, and morally murky decisions, and Kingmaker becomes a sprawling epic where every choice carries serious weight.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII

Civilization VII is the latest entry in the iconic 4X strategy series and it brings fresh mechanics that give even veteran players something to think about. Gone are the days of rigid civ-leader pairings — Civilization VII lets you mix and match leaders and civilizations for some seriously unique gameplay combos. Imagine Napoleon running a high-tech civilization or Cleopatra with a military-focused empire.

XCOM 2

XCOM 2 is a turn-based strategy game has you fighting to take back Earth from its alien invaders, one tactical mission at a time.

The combat is nerve-wracking. Each soldier has unique abilities, and with the fog of war, you never know where the next enemy is lurking. You’ll be making tough choices about squad placement and whether you can afford to risk it all to get the upper hand. Plus, the War of the Chosen expansion brings even more factions and deadly enemies.

XCOM 2 also makes you manage resources, build up your resistance, and decide what risks are worth taking.

Persona 5 Royal

Few turn-based games feel this slick. Persona 5 Royal blends classic JRPG combat with an ultra-stylish presentation and one of the coolest casts in gaming.

The turn-based battles are fast, punchy, and layered with strategic depth — especially when exploiting enemy weaknesses and chaining attacks. But it’s not just about combat; you’re also balancing high school life, building relationships, and diving into surreal psychological dungeons known as Palaces. Royal enhances the original in almost every way, making it the definitive way to experience this modern masterpiece of turn-based design.

Total War: Shogun 2

Total War: Shogun 2 is a tactical masterpiece that throws you into the heart of feudal Japan’s Sengoku period. You take on the role of a daimyō, leading one of several clans in a battle for supremacy, navigating diplomacy, strategy, and war.

The real-time battles are where the game really shines. You’ll control massive armies of samurai, archers, and cavalry, all while trying to outthink your opponent. It’s all about positioning, timing, and knowing when to strike.

And if you’re into multiplayer, Shogun 2 doesn’t disappoint. You can test your strategies against players from all over the world. Plus, the expansion Fall of the Samurai takes things up a notch by adding modern warfare elements, bringing the action into the 19th century.

Crystal Project

Crystal Project is the hidden gem that hardcore turn-based fans didn’t know they needed. It throws you into an open world with zero hand-holding, no quest markers, and a deep class-based combat system that evokes classic Final Fantasy Tactics and Bravely Default.

You can tackle dungeons in any order, mix and match jobs to your heart’s content, and experiment with a battle system that rewards clever synergy and long-term planning. Don’t let the minimalist visuals fool you — this is a deceptively deep and rewarding experience.

Into The Breach

Into the Breach isn’t your typical turn-based game, but it’s a total gem if you’re looking for something that mixes brainy tactics with a dash of mechs and monsters. You’re tasked with defending cities from the Vek — giant monsters with a serious vendetta — by commanding customizable mechs.

The combat is simple to pick up but deep enough to keep you hooked. You’ll spend most of your time positioning your mechs to outsmart the enemy, trying to predict where the Vek will strike next.

What makes Into the Breach stand out is its roguelike elements. Each mission feels like a mini-challenge, and if you mess up, you can send your pilots back in time, taking their experience with them to help you in the next round. It’s a nice mix of strategy and “try, try again” that keeps things fresh.

Octopath Traveler 2

Octopath Traveler II is a masterclass in modern turn-based combat wrapped in stunning HD-2D pixel art. It builds on the foundation of the first game with richer character stories and tighter narrative connections, but the real star here is the battle system.

The Break & Boost mechanics turn every fight into a layered puzzle — do you conserve power or go all in to shatter an enemy’s defenses at just the right moment? Each of the eight protagonists brings unique abilities to the table, encouraging creative team builds and synergy. Stylish, strategic, and surprisingly emotional.

Gears Tactics

If you love the Gears of War series but want to mix things up, Gears Tactics is your answer. Released in 2020, this turn-based strategy game brings the signature Gears action into a tactical setting, where you command a squad of soldiers against the Locust Horde.

Set 12 years before the original Gears of War, the game keeps things fast-paced with cover-based combat and tactical decisions that make every move count. The environments are stunning, and the gameplay is addictive, even if some missions could use a bit more variety.

It’s the perfect mix of Gears’ brutal action and strategic depth. If you’re into strategy games with a bit of a punch, Gears Tactics is definitely worth your time.

Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector

If you’re a fan of the Warhammer 40,000 universe and love turn-based strategy, Battlesector is a must-play. Released in 2021, this game pits the Blood Angels Space Marines against the Tyranid swarm on Baal Secundus, offering a 20-mission campaign packed with tactical depth.

The combat is all about positioning and planning, with each unit offering unique strengths and abilities. But it’s not just about the campaign—Battlesector also lets you dive into skirmish and multiplayer modes for endless replayability. And with the introduction of the Astra Militarum faction in late 2024, the strategic options just got even more exciting.

The game’s got solid voice acting and a tight tactical system, though some missions could use more variety. Still, if you want a Warhammer 40K experience that mixes strategy and action, Battlesector delivers.

Panzer Corps 2

Panzer Corps 2 is a tactical strategy game that puts you in command of WWII-era armies, and it doesn’t hold back. Released in 2020, it lets you lead massive forces across a 60-mission campaign, where every move counts. You’ll be in charge of tanks, infantry, and air units, each with unique stats that’ll make you feel like a true battlefield commander.

The game’s got over 1,000 different units, offering plenty of variety, and the strategic depth will keep you planning your next move for hours. Whether you’re playing solo or jumping into multiplayer with friends, there’s always something to challenge your tactical skills. 

It’s available on multiple platforms, so it’s easy to jump in no matter where you play. For anyone who loves a deep, thought-provoking strategy game with a strong historical foundation, Panzer Corps 2 is a solid pick.

The Battle for Wesnoth

The Battle for Wesnoth is a classic in the turn-based strategy world, and for good reason. This free, open-source game lets you command armies across a rich, high-fantasy universe, with epic campaigns and multiplayer modes that’ll keep you coming back for more.

The single-player campaigns are where the real fun is, offering hours of storytelling and tactical battles. There’s even a new version, 1.18, that dropped in 2024 with cool updates like new campaigns, achievements, and better graphics. Plus, the game is cross-platform, so whether you’re on Windows, macOS, or even iOS, you’re good to go.

The best part? It’s free, so you can dive in without any investment beyond your time. And if you’re the type who loves to tweak and contribute, Wesnoth is open-source, so you can join the community and add your own spin on things. If you’re into strategy games with plenty of depth and a rich world to explore, The Battle for Wesnoth is a must-play.

BattleTech

BattleTech isn’t just about big robots smashing each other—though, yeah, that’s definitely part of the appeal. Set in a galaxy where mercenaries rule the battlefield, this turn-based strategy game gives you control of a ragtag crew of mechs and pilots, all while navigating political intrigue and brutal warfare.

What really sets BattleTech apart is the depth. You’re not just throwing mechs into combat and hoping for the best—you’re managing your mercenary company, customizing your mechs, and making decisions that affect the course of the war. The combat is tactical, challenging, and satisfying, with a huge emphasis on positioning, equipment, and team synergy.

The story has its fair share of twists and turns, and the world-building pulls you in, especially if you’re a fan of the BattleTech universe. The mix of mech combat, strategy, and narrative is what makes BattleTech so addictive. It’s not a quick game, but if you love slow-burn strategy and watching your choices unfold over time, you’ll be hooked.