The Top Strategy Games for PC Gamers: A 2023 Guide

Strategy games have long been a staple of PC gaming, offering players the chance to immerse themselves in complex worlds where the outcome rests not on quick reflexes but on thoughtful planning and keen decision-making. As we step into 2023, the genre continues to evolve, bringing innovative gameplay mechanics, improved graphics, and more immersive stories that captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you're a fan of grand strategy, real-time tactics, or city-building, this guide will walk you through the top strategy games for PC gamers in 2023, providing you with everything you need to know to dive into these enthralling worlds.

Civilization VI: Gathering Storm

Civilization VI: Gathering Storm continues to stand out as one of the pinnacle experiences for strategy game enthusiasts. This expansion to the base game Civilization VI introduces dynamic weather patterns, environmental disasters, and a host of new civilizations and leaders. Players must now consider the ecological impact of their empire, as factors like carbon emissions and deforestation can lead to devastating natural disasters. The addition of the World Congress brings a new diplomatic layer to the game, allowing players to influence global policies and respond to crises collectively. As with previous entries in the series, the goal remains to guide a civilization from the Stone Age to the Information Age through strategic planning, diplomatic savvy, and military might. Gathering Storm amplifies the depth and complexity of these challenges, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

StarCraft II: Legacy of the Void

StarCraft II: Legacy of the Void is the final chapter in the iconic StarCraft II trilogy, bringing the epic saga of the Protoss, Terran, and Zerg to a thrilling conclusion. This standalone expansion elevates the real-time strategy (RTS) genre with its intricate balance of power, fast-paced gameplay, and deep strategic complexity. Players must gather resources, build armies, and strategically maneuver their units to outmaneuver opponents. Legacy of the Void introduces new units and multiplayer modes, including Archon mode, which allows two players to control a single base and army, promoting unparalleled teamwork and strategy. The narrative campaign is a captivating journey through the Protoss legacy, blending intense action with emotional storytelling. StarCraft II's robust online multiplayer scene ensures that players can test their skills against others worldwide, making it a timeless favorite in the RTS category.

Total War: Three Kingdoms

Total War: Three Kingdoms stands as a high watermark for the Total War series, expertly blending grand strategy and real-time tactics in the rich historical setting of the Three Kingdoms period in China. This game emphasizes not just military conquest but also the intricate play of diplomacy, espionage, and internal politics. Players choose from a selection of warlords, each with unique abilities, units, and strategic approaches. The game introduces the concept of "guanxi," reflecting the complex web of relationships, loyalties, and rivalries among the game's characters, adding depth to both strategy and storytelling. Combat is a visually stunning affair, with massive battles that require thoughtful positioning, timely use of abilities, and keen awareness of terrain. Three Kingdoms is praised for its historical fidelity, strategic gameplay, and the immersive world it creates, making it a standout in the strategy genre.

Anno 1800

A blend of city-building, strategy, and simulation, Anno 1800 transports players to the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, where they are tasked with establishing and growing their city. This entry in the Anno series focuses on the economic engine, requiring players to manage supply chains, navigate changing trade routes, and adapt to the emerging needs of their growing city. The game beautifully balances the complexities of industrial expansion with the ecological and social impacts of your decisions. Players can explore and settle in new lands, engage in diplomacy or warfare with neighbors, and race to achieve technological innovations. Anno 1800 stands out for its detailed historical setting, complex game mechanics, and engaging sandbox mode, offering countless hours of strategic play and creativity.

Crusader Kings III

Crusader Kings III is a grand strategy game where gamers assume the role of a noble house, guiding its fortunes through centuries of change. Unlike many strategy games, Crusader Kings III places a strong emphasis on character and storytelling, with each decision impacting the personal lives of your realm's inhabitants as much as its political landscape. The game's deep RPG elements allow players to craft their ruler's personality, negotiate alliances through marriage, plot against rivals, or seek to expand their influence through warfare or diplomacy. The intricate simulation of medieval life makes for a uniquely compelling experience, where a single character's traits or decisions can alter the course of history. With endless possibilities for intrigue, betrayal, and alliances, Crusader Kings III offers a rich, immersive experience that goes beyond traditional strategy gaming.

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen

XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is an expansion to the critically acclaimed XCOM 2, adding new enemies, allies, missions, and depth to an already robust game. This turn-based tactical game continues the story of humanity's resistance against alien occupation, challenging players with strategic base building, squad management, and high-stakes combat missions. War of the Chosen introduces the Chosen – powerful adversaries that hunt the player's forces throughout the campaign, along with three new resistance factions that offer unique units and abilities. The game significantly ramps up its strategic layer, requiring careful management of resources, technology research, and global operations. Tense, turn-based combat missions demand precise tactics, with destructible environments, randomized objectives, and permadeath for soldiers, creating a thrilling, unpredictable challenge. XCOM 2: War of the Chosen is a masterclass in tension, strategy, and replayability.

Gears Tactics

Gears Tactics is a fast-paced, turn-based strategy game that expands the Gears of War universe, exploring new stories and gameplay mechanics. Set 12 years before the first Gears of War; players lead a squad of survivors to combat the emerging Locust threat. Unlike traditional turn-based strategy games, Gears Tactics emphasizes aggressive gameplay, encouraging players to take the initiative and rewarding bold moves. The game features deep customization options for both characters and equipment, allowing players to tailor their squad to their play style. Each soldier class comes with unique abilities, requiring strategic combinations and positioning to overcome enemies. With challenging bosses, a compelling campaign, and the signature gritty atmosphere of the Gears universe, Gears Tactics delivers a fresh take on strategy gaming.

In 2023, the strategy games genre for PC gamers continues to thrive, offering a wide variety of experiences that test the mind and captivate the imagination. Whether you're drawn to historical epics, science fiction adventures, or intricate simulations, this year's lineup has something to challenge and entertain every kind of strategist. Dive into these top picks to experience the best in planning, tactics, and leadership as you carve your path to victory in these digital worlds.