Strategy games have long captivated players with their ability to simulate complex decision-making and problem-solving. I often find parallels between the strategic thinking required in these games and the skills necessary for success in business and life. In this article, I’ll compare and rank ten of the best strategy games based on their strategic depth, engagement, and overall gameplay experience.

1. Crusader Kings III

Strategic Depth: ★★★★★
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 1

Topping the list is Crusader Kings III, a grand strategy game that goes beyond traditional military conquest to emphasize political maneuvering, personal relationships, and dynastic management. The game’s unique focus on characters rather than just empires allows for a deep and nuanced experience where long-term planning and adaptability are crucial. The strategic depth in managing alliances, marriages, and court intrigue is unparalleled, making Crusader Kings III the most complex and rewarding game on this list.

2. Civilization VI

Strategic Depth: ★★★★☆
Engagement: ★★★★★
Overall Rank: 2

Civilization VI is a game of grand ambition, allowing players to guide a civilization from the dawn of time to the modern era. The game excels in balancing multiple aspects of strategy, including diplomacy, military conquest, and cultural development. Its accessible yet deep gameplay makes it highly engaging, offering a perfect blend of strategic challenge and replayability. While it may not delve as deeply into individual elements as some other games, its broad scope ensures a rich and satisfying experience.

3. Total War: Three Kingdoms

Strategic Depth: ★★★★☆
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 3

Total War: Three Kingdoms offers a dual-layered approach to strategy, combining grand strategy with real-time tactical battles. Set in the turbulent era of ancient China, the game allows players to manage vast empires while also controlling armies in detailed battles. The balance between strategic planning and tactical execution is what makes this game stand out. Its historical setting and character-driven narrative add layers of depth, though it requires a significant time investment to master both aspects.

4. XCOM 2

Strategic Depth: ★★★★☆
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 4

XCOM 2 is a turn-based tactical game that emphasizes risk management and strategic planning on a smaller scale. Leading a squad of soldiers against an alien invasion, players must carefully consider each move, as mistakes can be costly and permanent. The game’s unforgiving nature and high stakes make it a thrilling experience, rewarding careful thought and planning. While its focus is narrower than some of the other games on this list, XCOM 2 excels in creating tension and engagement through its tactical gameplay.

5. StarCraft II

Strategic Depth: ★★★☆☆
Engagement: ★★★★★
Overall Rank: 5

StarCraft II is a fast-paced real-time strategy game that is a staple of the esports world. The game’s strategic depth lies in its faction diversity, requiring players to master different playstyles and counter-strategies. Its competitive multiplayer scene is highly engaging, though the focus on speed and reflexes can sometimes overshadow the strategic elements. While it may not offer the same long-term planning as grand strategy games, StarCraft II is unmatched in its ability to keep players on their toes.

6. Europa Universalis IV

Strategic Depth: ★★★★★
Engagement: ★★★☆☆
Overall Rank: 6

Europa Universalis IV offers one of the most detailed and complex grand strategy experiences available. Players control a nation over centuries, managing diplomacy, trade, warfare, and colonization. The game’s depth is staggering, with every decision having far-reaching consequences. However, its steep learning curve and slower pace may be daunting for some players. Those willing to invest the time will find a deeply rewarding experience, but it’s not as immediately engaging as other games on this list.

7. Endless Legend

Strategic Depth: ★★★☆☆
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 7

Endless Legend combines 4X strategy elements with a richly detailed fantasy world. The game’s factions are distinct, each offering unique strategic challenges. The turn-based gameplay encourages careful planning, and the fantasy setting provides a fresh twist on traditional 4X mechanics. While it may not be as deep as Civilization VI or Europa Universalis IV, Endless Legend is highly engaging, with a strong emphasis on exploration and adaptation.

8. Hearts of Iron IV

Strategic Depth: ★★★★☆
Engagement: ★★★☆☆
Overall Rank: 8

Hearts of Iron IV is a grand strategy game focused on World War II, where players manage nations through complex military strategies. The game’s emphasis on logistics, production, and warfare makes it a highly detailed and challenging experience. However, its narrow focus on military aspects and the complexity of its systems can be overwhelming for new players. While it offers deep strategic gameplay, it may not appeal to those looking for a more balanced strategic experience.

9. Into the Breach

Strategic Depth: ★★★☆☆
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 9

Into the Breach is a minimalist turn-based strategy game that distills decision-making into short, intense scenarios. Players control mechs to fend off alien threats, with each move requiring careful consideration. The game’s simplicity is its strength, offering a pure strategic challenge without the complexities of grand strategy. While it lacks the scope of other games on this list, Into the Breach is highly engaging and perfect for quick, thoughtful gameplay sessions.

10. Anno 1800

Strategic Depth: ★★★☆☆
Engagement: ★★★★☆
Overall Rank: 10

Anno 1800 combines city-building with strategic resource management, set during the Industrial Revolution. Players must balance population needs with industrial growth, making strategic decisions that affect the prosperity of their cities. While the game offers depth in its economic systems, it is more focused on management than on broader strategic challenges. Anno 1800 is a fantastic game for those who enjoy resource management and urban planning, though it may not satisfy players looking for more traditional strategy gameplay.

In conclusion, these ten strategy games each offer a unique take on strategic gameplay, ranging from grand historical simulations to intense tactical battles. Whether you’re looking for the deep political intrigue of Crusader Kings III, the broad scope of Civilization VI, or the tactical precision of XCOM 2, this ranking provides a guide to finding the perfect strategic challenge for your tastes. Each game offers valuable lessons in strategic thinking, making them not only entertaining but also intellectually enriching.