5 – Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from playing both Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun and Desperados 3, it’s that Mimimi Games are true masters of their craft. They’ve perfected the stealth-strategy genre, breathing new life into a style of gameplay that had long since faded into obscurity, so it’s a shame that they decided to close their doors after the release of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew.
I’m recommending Shadow Tactics over Desperados 3 mainly due to the price difference. If your budget allows for Desperados 3, you won’t be disappointed—it’s an excellent game as well, and the basics are exactly the same. You can even go with Shadow Gambit for an “open world” take on the stealth genre. But if you’re on the fence or need to save a few bucks, Shadow Tactics is an outstanding experience in its own right. It’s a masterclass in blending tactical decision-making with stealth mechanics, and I can’t recommend it enough.
4 – Manor Lords
I’m surprised that Manor Lords is on sale, especially since it was released just a couple of months ago to massive commercial success and critical acclaim! At the core of Manor Lords lies a captivating mix of city-building and real-time strategy that redefines the genre. Manor Lords is to strategy games what Baldur’s Gate 3 is to RPGs. It’s the Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare of shooters and the Company of Heroes of real-time strategy—setting a new, elevated standard for future games in the genre. This is not just an outstanding game, but a benchmark that will influence how every other title in the Total War, Age of Empires, Cities: Skylines, and Stronghold lineage is measured from now on. If you’re looking for the next big thing in strategy, be sure to grab Manor Lords during the Steam Autumn Sale.
3 – XCOM: Enemy Unknown
XCOM: Enemy Unknown single-handedly revitalized the turn-based strategy genre, paving the way for a wave of similar games that followed. Released during a time when MOBAs like League of Legends and Dota were dominating the gaming scene and Twitch was gaining traction, it helped this niche genre break into the mainstream. A complete remake and reimagining of the original XCOM: UFO Defense, Enemy Unknown captured the hearts of gamers as soon as it hit stores, both physical and digital. With its massive campaign, menacing alien foes, brutal difficulty, intricate turn-based combat, squad management, and solid expansions, it became a standout experience—one of, if not the, best strategy games ever made. XCOM 2 is also on sale and, if you can, you should buy both titles.
2 – Crusader Kings III
Crusader Kings III is essentially Crusader Kings 2 with upgraded visuals and even more depth. If you’re searching for a game that perfectly captures the complexity of medieval politics, look no further. There’s nothing else quite like it. Plot, scheme, bribe, assassinate, imprison, lie, cheat, and steal your way to power, transforming humble dynasties into vast empires. Every campaign is an epic in itself, even if things go sideways very fast, in fact, that’s where the most memorable stories come from. I love Crusader Kings III.
1 – Jagged Alliance 3
This year I’m changing things around a bit, and throwing an unexpected curveball at the number one spot. Otherwise, these lists would always be dominated by XCOM. This year, the number 1 recommendation I have is Jagged Alliance 3 and it’s a triumphant return to form. Jagged Alliance 3 is also a clear example that the turn-based tactical genre can evolve and improve when in capable hands. After years of uneven releases, it’s exciting to finally say that Jagged Alliance is no longer just a series that peaked in the mid-’90s, but it’s thriving in 2024. Jagged Alliance 3 is not only one of the best games in the series, but it also stands as one of the top strategy titles of 2023, and being on sale, at 50% off, it’s well worth your time and money. If you’re a fan of tactical combat, and love the idea of leading a team of wild mercenaries that look like they came out of an action movie, don’t miss the chance to pick it up during the Steam Autumn Sale. Go have fun!
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