Turn-based strategy games are enjoying renewed popularity in 2025. Several converging forces are driving this resurgence and creating fresh excitement around a genre that once felt niche.
Nostalgia and remasters
Classic titles are being reintroduced to modern audiences. Remakes such as Advance Wars 1 + 2: Re-Boot Camp have renewed interest in grid-based turn-based gameplay. Fans of Final Fantasy Tactics now anticipate a full remaster titled Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, scheduled for release on September 30. Another eagerly awaited title, Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, will enter early access in late summer 2025, promising classic fantasy strategy with modern polish.
New titles bring innovation
Contemporary releases are merging turn-based strategy with fresh mechanics and replay value. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 earned praise for its hybrid combat system that combines turn-based structure with timed inputs, parrying, and dodging during enemy turns. These mechanics add depth without sacrificing the thoughtful pacing fans expect. Upcoming projects such as Slay the Spire 2 and Espiocracy suggest that even emerging turn-based strategy games are experimenting with hybrid systems and deep resource or espionage mechanics.
Compelling new 4X titles
Games in the 4X space, which define much of strategic depth, remain strong. Age of Wonders 4 impressed critics and players alike with a fresh implementation of empire building, diplomacy, and tactical combat. It sold 250,000 copies in its first week and reached high concurrent player numbers on Steam. Similarly, Ara: History Untold, released in September 2024, added depth to grand strategy with refined terrain-based combat and modding support.
Community and streamer support
The strategy genre benefits from content creators. Strategy games often offer dramatic, replayable battles that translate well into streaming and video content. Audiences are discovering these titles through livestreams and video essays focused on high-level play and decision-making.
Player base preference
Players who grew up on titles like Command & Conquer, XCOM, Civilization, and Fire Emblem are seeking out more complex experiences as they age. Turn-based strategy appeals because it allows for a relaxed pace and deep planning. Many Reddit users point out that this genre fits modern attention spans that value thoughtful over frantic gameplay.
Design improvements
Developers are addressing past complaints about old-school UI or outdated visuals. Indie developers in particular are improving accessibility, user interfaces, and quality of life while keeping classic depth intact. This improves reception among both long-time fans and newcomers.
Turn-based strategy is no longer just a legacy genre. In 2025, it is evolving, expanding, and thriving with a growing audience and bold creative directions.
I’m one of those that enjoy the way a turn based game progresses.