Since the beginning of video games, developers have seen the move from tabletop and physical turn-based games to the digital realm as a promising evolution. This shift offered the potential for better game mechanics, thanks to the opportunities provided by new platforms. The result was a series of games with incredible gameplay and modes that expanded the universe of role-playing of their ascendants.

A turn-based game is where interactions between players or player versus environment are strictly reduced to one turn per side. It means each participant has a turn to perform a series of mechanics. After finishing their turn, it's the opponent's turn to carry out mechanics.

All turn-based games we discuss below are available on RoyalCDKeys at unbeatable prices. So, power your strategy abilities, and let’s check out these impressive titles!

• Release Date: February 5, 2016

• Developer: Firaxis Games

• Publisher: 2K Games

• Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Linux, OS X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android 

• Metascore: 88

The first game on this list of the turn-based strategy genre is part of an old classic series called XCOM. The first release of this saga was launched in 1994, and since then, nine titles have been released, each better than the previous one. XCOM 2 is the latest installment to date. 

Like all the other titles of the series and other games of the same genre, XCOM features turn-based combat against alien forces trying to conquer the Earth. This tactical combat allows you to plan better and more accurately, giving you enough time to think of your next move. 

Like other turn-based games like Gears Tactics or Fire Emblem: Three Houses, you play XCOM 2 from a zenith perspective, allowing you to see the entire battlefield. Still, a very important aspect that differentiates XCOM 2 from other titles is its procedurally generated maps, which provide you with different experiences all the time.

XCOM 2 features five distinct soldier classes and a lengthy campaign. One notable aspect is the ability to interact with the map to devise more effective military strategies.

I can say by far that this is why I started to play the franchise and why you should do it! Despite having limited missions, each new beginning feels like a new return and experience. XCOM 2 tastes fresh every time I play it, with refreshing gaming and endless potential.  

Veteran players like me already know the quality of this series, and XCOM 2 is the quintessence of its gameplay. If you haven't tried the previous entry, play this iteration and command your squad to save the Earth.

Key Features:

• Procedurally generated maps provide a unique battle every time. 

• Tactical guerrilla combat with flexible gunplay and strategies.

• An upgrading system allows you to create more powerful weapons and characters.

XCOM 2 Global Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: April 24, 2018

• Developer: Harebrained Schemes

• Publisher: Paradox Interactive

• Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS, Mac OS Classic

• Metascore: 78

As its name indicates, Battletech is a wargaming game that features mechas and technology as an integral part of its mechanics. As such, this title is set in the future and covers the end of the 21st century to the 32nd.

In Battletech, you take part in tactical battles on a hexagonal-terrain-tiles map, through which you control the 12-meter-tall units that look like Gundams or similar mechas. Each mech has its particularities, but they all are miniature figurines that advance across the board. However, you can paint and customize them as you want. Each unit has unique weapons that allow you to address combat from different points of view.

The Battletech world is a figurine-collectible world where each mech is a little, very realistic toy you can deploy on the battleground. Then, the battle begins! Still, Battletech is arguably a turn-based game that keeps you on the edge of your seat since it has an interesting plot that fits perfectly with its style.

However, playing Battletech hasn’t given me a sense of playing a top-board title since its world, environments, and graphics are fully alive. Events on the battlefield are real, and every movement I made worked like a well-planning tactic, which is appreciated in a title of this nature.

Key Features:

• An accurate turn-based combat featuring mechs in realistic environments.

• The possibility of customizing your mechs. 

• A good narrative puts you in a desperate civil war. 

Battletech Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: November 15, 2018

• Developer: Bulwark Studios

• Publisher: Kasedo Games

• Platforms: Windows, Linux, macOS, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

• Metascore: 78

Warhammer 40,000, a timeless classic among tabletop games, finds its digital incarnation in Mechanicus, a game set within its vast lore. Here, players delve into the world of cybernetically enhanced warrior priests, making it a unique addition to this list.

As in every tactical video game based on tabletops, Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus’ turn-based gameplay is similar to that in the XCOM series mentioned above. Besides, as in XCOM: Enemy Unknown, Mechanicus features a bright grid representing the battlefield and the unit's movement capabilities. It also creates a dark and foggy atmosphere, adding a sense of mystery to the gameplay, akin to exploring the depths of the darkest dungeon. Most scenarios in Mechanicus are set in underground and desolated settlements, contributing even more to creating the atmosphere described above. 

At the beginning of gameplay, Mechanicus can seem a bit simple. Still, it balances levels and challenges very well, providing a smooth experience that brings fresh ideas and concepts to the saga. Besides, Permadeath and Ironman provide a totally new level of difficulty to the game, which can even break your spirit.

This game stands out due to its strategic depth and few endings that come to fruition according to your decisions during events. Mechanicus also highlights the possibility of obtaining abilities through a reward system and the exploration of maps you can leverage to discover new elements and secrets.

In my opinion, Mechanicus is a good example of how a classic tabletop game should be taken to the video game world, adding new features and improving many of its multiple mechanics. 

Key Features:

• A top-down perspective with impressive visuals and immersive storytelling.

• A well-refined achievement system.

• One of the best turn-based games of recent years.

Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: November 12, 2019

• Developer: 2x2 Games

• Publishers: 2x2 Games | Croteam

• Platforms: Microsoft Windows

• Metascore: 88

Unity of Command II is an excellent wargame featuring turn-based combat and strategy. Contrary to the previous games mentioned in this list, UoC II combines accurately historical narrated events and abstract game design. 

This title brings back all the best features of the first chapter of the franchise, improves most of them, and adds new ones. A good example of this is the new Headquarters. HQs collect remnants of player units, which are further utilized to reinforce the existing units on the battlefield. You can also build other elements, such as bridges with the same spare parts of units. 

Like its predecessor, Unity of Command II has a puzzle-like configuration. As in most tabletop games, units move across the map by counting hexagonal tiles. Your units have a field of influence that can change according to the unit type.

It’s interesting as UoC II expands the grand campaign by adding battles in the north of Africa, in the waters of the Western Front, and emphasizing the Normandy campaigns. Units and Headquarters can be improved through the campaign, allowing you to achieve new objectives and take advantage of the territory.

Many gamers believe that Unity of Command II is a puzzle game dressed up as a wargame, and this is true but not necessarily bad. In my experience, its turn-based mechanics are great and do not leave space for randomness. In UoC II, you’re playing on a tactical level, making you think and plan a lot.

Key Features:

• Dynamic campaigns allow you to rewrite the story of the Second World War.

• Headquarters to reinforce and reorganize your units and strategies.

• The possibility of wreaking havoc and going beyond the enemy line.

Unity of Command II Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys. 

• Release Date: February 27, 2018

• Developer: Subset Games

• Publisher: Subset Games

• Platforms: PC, macOS, Nintendo Switch, Linux, Stadia, iOS, Android

• Metascore: 90

Into the Breach is a must-play turn-based strategy game different from the previous games mentioned in this article. At first glance, the main difference is evident: the game board is smaller than the ones typically found in most turn-based games.

This title, made by the same creators of FTL: Faster Than Light, is simpler than other titles, which is exciting because you can learn its mechanics quickly and in a matter of minutes. This is appreciated since the contact with its deep level of tactic gameplay is almost immediate.

The map is an 8x8 tile board. Each tile contains a unique piece, such as a piece of land, a body of water, a mountain, a building, a creature, or your unit. Each unit has a particular behavior and scope; thus, you’ll have to strategically plan the next move to face enemy units in the middle of the cities, valleys, mountains, or oceans.

For gamers who are looking for more challenging but simple gameplay with great mechanics and an assortment of tactics, Into the Breach is a must-have. Essentially, an old-fashioned game for old gamers like me. 

Key Features:

• Simple graphics and visualizations on a simple 8x8 board.

• Multiple mechs and weapons for different attack approaches.

• Dozens of enemies, bosses, objectives, and maps.

Into the Breach Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: August 6, 2019

• Developer: Triumph Studios

• Publisher: Paradox Interactive

• Platforms: PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, macOS

• Metascore: 81

Some people classify Age of Wonders: Planetfall as a blend of the Civilization series and XCOM, a concise definition that captures its core gameplay essence. This connection is easily understood as the creators of AoW are the same talented minds behind the acclaimed Overlord series, known for its incorporation of 4X elements.

Age of Wonders: Planetfall is set in a sci-fi universe with different edges you can approach, which is appreciated by gamers like me, who enjoy colony and hero management and decision-making in the tactical sphere. A great component that I like from Planetfall is diplomacy, which adds a new layer of intrigue and planning to the gameplay, allowing players to make deeper connections and decisions about the development of their civilizations.

Planetfall puts at your disposal six different factions, each with a unique playstyle and strategy approach, but still, in my own experience, they do not feel mainly different. However, players select the hero to lead their faction or the technology that will be developed.

Beyond this, an interesting aspect of Planetfall is that its world is procedurally generated, which ensures a different experience every time you play it. This world contains several biomes and plenty of resources you can exploit, such as food and energy.

Regarding turn-based combat, I have to say that Planetfall goes a step beyond by integrating mandatory tactics to address different types of enemies. It also stands out due to its military units and the possibility of staggering the enemy to release special attacks, which reminded me of some RPGs.

Key Features:

• Multiple game modes, including a multiplayer path and a single-player campaign.

• Several paths to victory, such as conquest and diplomacy.

• Build the planetary civilizations from heroes and the most impressive battle units.

Age of Wonders: Planetfall Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: September 18, 2014

• Developer: Amplitude Studios

• Publisher: Iceberg Interactive | Sega

• Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X

• Metascore: N/A

Like Age of Wonders: Planetfall, Endless Legend is a turn-based 4X game focused on tactics and resource management. Endless Legend has been brought to us by the same creators of Endless Space, a game with similar characteristics. However, this Amplitude Studios’ title is set in a particular world called Auriga, which you must conquer with any of the fourteen available races.

Like other games of the same genre, like Sid Meier’s Civilization and the same Planetfall, in Endless Legend, you have two approaches to victory: diplomacy and war. However, exploring new maps and scenarios is still an important gameplay mechanic.

An aspect that caught my attention when I tried it was the strong effects of the biomes over mechanics and units. You must be alert to natural and cultural phenomena to expand your settlement and develop new technologies. Consequently, engaging with the environment is essential to survive and settle in the territory correctly.

Endless Legend also has a high level of narrative and a great system of diverse and asymmetrical factions, which refreshes the gameplay and gives you the sensation of landing a different adventure every time. All the factions differ, encouraging you to try them and discover which fits your gameplay style best.

The turn-based tactical combat is not the best, according to my experience with similar games or great titles like Final Fantasy Tactics. However, it still shines because of its creativity and clean UI. But beyond this, Endless Legend is a title with many options and approaches to develop. Take your position in the battleground and reach the victory you deserve!

Key Features:

• Control every aspect of your rising civilization to conquer the mother planet, Auriga.

• The possibility of exploring vast lands and finding the best places for your next settlements.

• Conquer, exploit, expand, and develop related structures and resources to advance your empire. 

Endless Legend Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: March 19, 2020

• Developer: Flashback Games

• Publisher: Slitherine Software

• Platforms: Windows

• Metascore: 86

Panzer Corps 2 establishes a highly aggressive game setting that is more on the hardcore side than other games of the same genre but with remarkable historical accuracy. As its name suggests, Panzer Corps 2 is set in the Second World War, with a more abstract approach. 

For example, a panzer can depict hundreds of armored vehicles and even advance dozens of miles just in an inch. This feature allows you to carry out strategies and plans in a wider territory, representing chunks of entire countries.

The aforementioned is interesting since planning addresses multiple factors and converts Panzer Corps 2 into a puzzle game rather than a strategy game. This is not something bad by default, but if you’re looking for appealing tactical gameplay, I must say that previous titles fit better with what you’re looking for.

Panzer Corps is a great idea regarding puzzle-strategizing, and its historical elements boost the narrative and the sense you’re experiencing a true passage of history. Then, join the front, prepare your team, and be ready for the player vs. player or co-op modes. 

Key Features:

• A great wargame with a fine-tuned gameplay style.

• Massive content with thousands of units on the battlefield simultaneously.

• A campaign with over sixty scenarios to fight the most important battles in WW2.

Panzer Corps 2 Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

• Release Date: March 24, 2017

• Developer: Overhype Studios

• Publisher: Overhype Studios

• Platforms: Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

• Metascore: 80

The last title in this list offers fresh air to the turn-based mechanics we’ve already seen in the games mentioned above. First, Battle Brother is set in a Medieval Age. Second, it offers a brutal experience of deadly mercenaries, treason, trope-ridden kingdoms, and permadeath.

Battle Brothers is highly accessible since combat is really simple, which is appreciated in a genre full of complex mechanics that can be overwhelming. This title's concepts are straightforward since the main mechanics is controlling an ugly mercenary crossing map, swamps, forests, and bodies of water to kill their enemies or perpetrate a covert assassination.

Although Battle Brother differentiates itself from the rest of the game of the genre, it still keeps classic systems and structures, such as the grid structure, the fog war, or the engagement in violent battle from which no one will leave alive.

A visually appealing characteristic of Battle Brothers that makes me engage strongly with this game is the brutally honest attacks, hits, stabs, shots, and stacks. Blood is spread everywhere in every encounter, and dead bodies litter the battlefield. Another aspect I love of this game is the great customization system, through which you can specialize characters and improve their abilities by selecting weapons, armor, and other accessories.

Battle Brothers is worth it since visceral interactions add realism despite the basic characterization of warriors. Besides, it's an easy approach, and different scales make this game one of my favorites.

Key Features:

• Procedurally generated open world where you can control dozens of mercenaries. 

• Multiple characters with their unique stories and battle abilities.

• The possibility of equipping warriors with a wide range of weapons and armor. 

Battle Brothers Steam CD Key is available on RoyalCDKeys.

If you’re eager to engage in a total war where two sides battle each other to conquer the territory, the video games discussed above will satisfy your desire for blood and glory. Remember that all these games are available on RoyalCDKeys at a crazy price. So, don’t hesitate and get them right now!