The PC gaming landscape has always been a fertile ground for strategy game enthusiasts. Whether you prefer expansive empires to manage, intense tactical battles, or brain-busting resource management, there’s something out there for all types of strategists. Below, we take a look at the top 10 strategy games you can play right now on PC, each offering its own unique twist on the genre.

1. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI

Ranking at the top is Civilization VI with its addictive “just one more turn” gameplay. It allows players to build an empire that stands the test of time as they advance from the Stone Age to the Information Age. The game’s depth and complexity are unparalleled, providing endless replayability.

2. Crusader Kings III

Crusader Kings III mixes grand strategy with personal politics and RPG elements. Every choice matters in this narrative-rich conquest that simulates historical dynasties. Its sophisticated system of character management ensures no two playthroughs are identical.

3. Total War: Three Kingdoms

Total War: Three Kingdoms blends epic turn-based empire building with massive real-time battles. Set in ancient China, it features both a captivating campaign and intricate diplomacy mechanics, making it a standout in the Total War series.

4. Stellaris

Venture into stellar conquest with Stellaris, a grand strategy game set in space where you can forge galactic empires, uncover cosmic anomalies and navigate complex interstellar diplomacy.

5. XCOM 2

XCOM 2 focuses on tactical turn-based combat as you command a resistance force against an alien occupation on Earth. It’s praised for high-stakes missions and extensive customization that makes each encounter intensively strategic.

6. Gears Tactics

An excellent spin-off from the Gears of War series, Gears Tactics takes the same beloved universe and offers an engrossing turn-based tactical experience where every decision could mean life or death for your squad.

7. Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition

The timeless classic returns better than ever with Age of Empires II: Definitive Edition — a real-time strategy titan that has you leading historic civilizations to glory through various eras.

8. StarCraft II: Legacy of the Void

StarCraft II continues to be an RTS staple with blistering-paced strategic gameplay that demands quick thinking and precise execution during battles between Terrans, Zerg, and Protoss.

9. Desperados III

A brilliant blend of real-time tactics set in a ruthless Wild West scenario, Desperados III puts you in control of a band of outlaws looking to carve their path through challenging missions requiring stealthy finesse and strategic planning.

10. Frostpunk

Last but certainly not least is Frostpunk — a survival strategy game that places you as the leader of the last city on Earth in an alternative-history Victorian age grappling with incessant cold.

These games are leaders in their field, offering rich strategic experiences coupled with impressive gameplay mechanics and storytelling. Whether you delight in conquering distant lands or prefer the careful management of resources against all odds, these masterpieces will test your wit and challenge your decision-making skills in uniquely captivating virtual worlds.