Strategy games push your mind to think critically, plan, and adapt to new challenges.
From turn-based tactics to real-time simulations, these games are perfect for anyone looking to sharpen problem-solving skills while having fun.
Here’s a look at some of the best strategy games that deliver a serious mental workout.
Turn-Based Strategy Games
Turn-based strategy games allow time to plan each move carefully, focusing on long-term strategy and resource management.
They’re ideal for players who enjoy calculated decision-making without the pressure of real-time action.
Examples:
- Civilization VI - Build an empire from ancient to modern times, managing diplomacy, science, and military to achieve victory.
- XCOM 2 - Lead a squad against alien invaders, making tactical choices to protect humanity.
- Total War: Three Kingdoms - Set in ancient China, combining turn-based strategy with real-time battles for ultimate control.
- Into the Breach - Control mechs to defend cities, planning moves on a grid to counter alien attacks.
- Advance Wars - Command troops on a grid map, capturing territory and defeating enemy forces.
Key Appeal: Turn-based strategy games appeal to those who enjoy thoughtful, calculated decisions.
Specific mental skills developed:
- Problem-solving and logical thinking
- Long-term planning and resource allocation
- Tactical foresight and patience
Why it’s particularly challenging or rewarding:
- Success relies on carefully executed plans rather than speed.
- Rewards players for strategic depth and complex decision-making.
- Emphasis on adapting strategies based on outcomes.
Real-Time Strategy (RTS) Games
RTS games challenge players to make quick decisions and manage resources on the go.
They require multitasking and fast thinking to outmaneuver opponents in dynamic, ever-changing environments.
Examples:
- StarCraft II - Control factions in a futuristic setting, balancing resources and intense battles for dominance.
- Age of Empires IV - Build civilizations through history, managing resources and armies to conquer rivals.
- Warcraft III - Command heroes and armies in a fantasy world with story-driven missions.
- Command & Conquer: Red Alert 2 - Lead forces in an alternate Cold War, managing resources to secure victory.
- Company of Heroes 2 - Set in WWII, emphasizing squad tactics and environmental cover for combat advantage.
Key Appeal: RTS games appeal to players who thrive on quick thinking, multitasking, and real-time decision-making.
Specific mental skills developed:
- Fast decision-making and adaptability
- Multitasking and resource management
- Situational awareness and spatial reasoning
Why it’s particularly challenging or rewarding:
- Demands quick reactions in high-pressure environments.
- Success hinges on the ability to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Provides a strong sense of accomplishment when outmaneuvering opponents.
Tactical RPGs
Tactical RPGs blend role-playing with strategic, turn-based combat, focusing on planning and team management.
Players strategize character abilities and positioning to tackle tough battles.
Examples:
- Fire Emblem: Three Houses - Lead students in a warfare academy, shaping relationships and battles.
- Final Fantasy Tactics - Build a team to face tactical battles and political intrigue in a fantasy world.
- Disgaea 5 - Manage quirky characters in strategic, customizable battles.
- Xenonauts - Command soldiers against aliens with a focus on tactical squad movement.
- Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together - Guide a group through war, making choices that affect the story and battles.
Key Appeal: Tactical RPGs appeal to those who enjoy strategic planning and character-driven decision-making.
Specific mental skills developed:
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Character development and resource allocation
- Critical thinking and spatial awareness
Why it’s particularly challenging or rewarding:
- Combines story depth with tactical complexity.
- Rewards creative solutions and strong team synergy.
- Allows players to impact outcomes through character and tactical choices.
Puzzle Strategy Games
Puzzle strategy games combine problem-solving with strategic thinking, requiring players to plan moves to achieve objectives carefully.
These games challenge logic, foresight, and adaptability in unique scenarios.
Examples:
- Into the Breach - Control mechs to protect cities on a grid, planning moves to counter alien threats.
- Mini Metro - Design efficient subway systems in growing cities, balancing routes to manage passenger flow.
- Baba Is You - Solve puzzles by changing the rules themselves creating new strategies to reach goals.
- Hitman GO - Navigate grid-based levels as Agent 47, using stealth and planning to eliminate targets.
- The Talos Principle - Solve complex puzzles in a mysterious world, combining logic and spatial reasoning.
Key Appeal: Puzzle strategy games appeal to players who enjoy challenging their logic, planning skills, and adaptability in creative scenarios.
Specific mental skills developed:
- Logical reasoning and problem-solving
- Pattern recognition and adaptability
- Spatial awareness and foresight
Why it’s particularly challenging or rewarding:
- Rewards unique and creative approaches to problem-solving.
- Tests players' adaptability and ability to think outside the box.
- Creates satisfaction through solving intricate puzzles and reaching solutions.
City-Building and Simulation Games
City-building and simulation games let players create and manage complex systems, planning infrastructure and resources.
They challenge players to balance growth, satisfaction, and sustainability in dynamic environments.
Examples:
- SimCity - Build and manage a city, balancing infrastructure, resources, and citizen needs.
- Cities: Skylines - Create a sprawling city with detailed control over zoning, traffic, and public services.
- Tropico 6 - Rule a tropical island as a dictator, managing resources, politics, and economy to stay in power.
- Banished - Guide a small community's survival by carefully managing resources, housing, and growth.
- Anno 1800 - Build an industrial empire, balancing production chains, trade, and city expansion.
Key Appeal: City-building and simulation games appeal to those who enjoy strategic planning and resource management.
Specific mental skills developed:
- Resource management and planning
- Problem-solving and foresight
- Balancing short-term needs with long-term growth
Why it’s particularly challenging or rewarding:
- Allows players to create and sustain a virtual world.
- Success relies on carefully balancing competing needs and resources.
- Provides a deep sense of accomplishment as cities or communities grow.
Multiplayer and Community Impact
Multiplayer strategy games build a community where players collaborate or compete in real time, adding a social layer to gaming.
Teamwork, rivalry, and shared experiences enhance the appeal.
- Teamwork and Collaboration – Players form alliances, coordinate strategies, and achieve shared goals, building connections.
- Competitive Environment – Multiplayer modes encourage competition, pushing players to improve skills and tactics.
- Community-Built Content – Games allow players to create mods, custom maps, and challenges, boosting creativity.
- Esports and Tournaments – Some strategy games have competitive scenes, with tournaments and esports leagues attracting global audiences.
- Global Player Connections – Multiplayer platforms connect players worldwide, creating a diverse gaming environment.
Cognitive and Educational Benefits
Strategy games go beyond entertainment; they build cognitive skills through problem-solving, planning, and decision-making.
- Enhanced Problem-Solving – Players analyze situations and devise solutions, improving problem-solving skills.
- Improved Memory – Remembering details, patterns, and strategies can boost memory.
- Strategic Planning – Games require forward-thinking and anticipating outcomes, strengthening planning abilities.
- Adaptability – Changing scenarios teach players to adapt and adjust strategies.
- Logical and Critical Thinking – Games promote reasoning and critical thinking as players evaluate options and make decisions.
To Wrap Up
Strategy games offer more than just fun—they challenge your mind, build cognitive skills, and foster community connections.
Whether you enjoy careful planning or fast-paced decision-making, there’s a strategy game that fits your style.
Explore these top picks to find the one that sharpens your skills and keeps you engaged.
