Despite always being a slightly niche genre, strategy games have consistently appealed to gamers since the early days of gaming. This is likely thanks to all the empowering strategies that you can think up in their flexible and expansive systems. Turn-based tactics games have emerged as a sub-genre in strategy gaming, presenting players with cerebral challenges which blend strategy, planning and RPG elements to make something new.
Thanks to their focus on careful thought and few inputs, turn-based tactics games work great on mobile. So let’s take a look at some of the best turn-based tactics games you can play on the go today.
1 XCOM: Enemy Within
XCOM is a series that’s been around for a while now, and over that period it has become one of the most beloved in the turn-based tactics genre. Enemy Within is a mobile adaptation of the PC and console spin-off of the same name. Offering up deep, tactical gameplay where you can fight off an alien invasion. You have to be ready for this one though, XCOM is a punishing game where every decision can make the difference between success or failure. Think you’re up for the challenge?
2 Fire Emblem Heroes
Expanding on Nintendo’s iconic turn-based RPG, Fire Emblem heroes is a spin off title that pulls together characters from across the Fire Emblem universe into one title. It’s combat might look quite simple compared to other games on this list, due to its pared down graphics, but don’t let that fool you. This game goes deep as well!
3 The Banner Saga
With a strong focus on story, The Banner Saga is a Viking-inspired turn-based RPG which sees you control a caravan of Vikings as you travel across the lands. It’s combat is charming, but the real draw of this title is its narrative which thrives thanks to the many meaningful decisions it hands to you—allowing you to really shape the narrative as you progress.
4 Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions
A mobile port of the iconic PSP Final Fantasy of the same name, this title is a must play for Final Fantasy fans thanks to its deep, political lore and its intuitive and engaging gameplay which the series is so known form
5 Arknights
Blending tower defence with tactical RPG elements, Arknights throws you into a dystopian futuristic world, where you must recruit and deploy a team of unique operators in order to defend against waves of enemies. The game features some lovely, intricate level design alongside a compelling story and some head-scratching-ly strategic gameplay. It may not be a big name (yet), but this is a great unique IP with some really exciting ideas. If you want to pick up Arknights, buy an arknight account to give yourself a head start!
6 Into the Breach
From the creators of FTL: Faster Than Light, Into the Breach is an acclaimed indie gem of the tactical RPG genre. The game challenges players to defend the world from aliens using a variety of powerful mechs, organising each battle as a puzzle which requires careful planning and foresight, as every action can have significant consequences on the match and the play space. It’s famous for a reason, so give it a go.
7 Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus
Set in the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40k, this title puts players in command of the Adeptus Mechanicus crew as you fight your way through various arenas. If you’re a fan of Warhammer, this is the game for you as it’s deep tactical gameplay and rich lore make it a great addition to the universe.
8 Shadowrun: Dragonfall – Director’s Cut
If you like cyberpunk, Shadowrun should be on your radar. Combining turn-based combat with a strong narrative, Dragonfall immerses players in a grim dystopian future filled with magic and technology. You know the drill—you lead a team with unique abilities through various missions. Shadowrun is a great and deeply satisfying turn based tactical RPG.
9 Invisible, Inc.
Prefer the quiet approach? Just as it’s name suggests, Invisible, Inc. is an espionage game which puts you in control of elite spies as you attempt to infiltrate corporations to gather intel and resources. With a strong focus on planning, resource management and stealth over combat, this is a title which adds a unique twist to the genre’s usual trappings.
10 Battle Chasers: Nightwar
You might not have heard of this one; that’s because it’s a bit more of a hidden gem. Inspired by classic RPGs and JRPGs alike, Battle Chasers: Nightwar features a compelling story which unfolds in a beautiful fantasy world. It’s colourful cast of characters, unique mana system and dynamic customization make the game stand out in this genre!
Whether you’re looking for Vikings, cyberpunk, stealth or robots, this genre has it all. From puzzle-based tactics to pure combat, there really is a lot to choose from. But if you’re a fan of the genre, any of the titles on this list will be sure to scratch your itch for turn based tactics on the go!