The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld gaming device that is capable of running most games on Steam’s vast library. Among the many types of games available, strategy games have always always been a popular genre among gamers. These games are known to put you in complex situations where you have to use your wits and strategy to survive.
If you are looking for the best strategy games to try out on your Steam Deck, then you are in luck as we compiled a list of the 7 seven best strategy games available on Steam. So, without any further delays, let’s dive in!
1. Total War: Warhammer 3
Set in the realm of chaos, Total War: Warhammer 3 is a turn-based strategy game that requires you to build your armies and manage your resources as you progress to find the bear god, Ursun. The game hosts a number of different factions with unique strengths and weaknesses, which you can utilize to expand your empire and also defeat rival factions.
With rich lore and a storyline that’s going to keep you on the edge of your seat, you’ll be battling AI-controller armies all throughout the fantasy world. Warhammer 3 creates a perfect blend of turn-based strategy games and real-time battles.
2. Banner Saga
Next up is Banner Saga, a turn-based tactical RPG set in a Norse-inspired fantasy world. You take on the role of a caravan leader and must manage the caravan’s resources while making decisions that affect both the story and the characters.
The combat system of the game is completely turn-based and takes place on a grid-based battlefield on which you have to strategically position your characters to defeat the enemy and protect your caravan from any harm. The game’s strategic gameplay mechanics and unique art style make it a must-play for fans of tactical games.
3. Darkest Dungeons
The third title on our list is Dark Dungeons, a gothic, rogue-like, turn-based RPG which follows the story of a group of heroes who must explore and conquer the eponymous Darkest Dungeon. The game is split into two parts: the Preparation phase and Expedition phase. Both phases require you to think strategically and maneuver through challenges.
The game features hand-drawn art and animation inspired by horror movies giving it a distinctive art style. Darkest Dungeons, known for its punishing difficulty, is perfect for those who enjoy a challenging and rewarding experience.
4. Stellaris
If you’re someone who enjoys delving into space-themed settings and strategy-based gameplay, then Stellaris perfectly showcases the best of both these worlds. Playing Stellaris, you’ll be given the control of an interstellar civilization, and will be tasked with exploring and colonizing other civilizations in the galaxy.
You’ll be left pondering about which technologies to research, how to manage your economy, and how to build cordial relations with alien settlements. With the ultimate goal of galactic dominance, you’ll have a blast strategizing diplomatic ties and trading items on a galactic scale.
5. Bloons TD 6
Bloons TD 6 is a super choice if you’re looking for some quick, casual fun. This one is a 3D tower defense game requiring you to strategically place towers and other defense mechanisms along a designated path to prevent balloons (or bloons, as the game calls them) from reaching the end.
While you strategize which defenses to buy and where to purchase them, you’ll be tackling a wide variety of balloons that’ll definitely keep your hands full on each level of the game. Although Bloons TD 6 isn’t a hard-core strategy game like others on our list, it’s something that allows you a laid-back gaming experience on the Steam Deck.
6. Civilization VI
If you’ve got a knack for building empires from the ground up, you should definitely give Civilization VI a try. This turn-based strategy game lets you start a civilization from scratch, tasking you with building it into a mighty empire. You can go to war, conduct diplomatic actions, and advance your tribe’s culture and knowledge as your progress.
You can also establish trade routes, create alliances with other civilizations and engage in espionage to further your cause. While providing an immersive experience and a realism that is rarely seen in strategy-based games, Civilization VI is a must-try for fans of turn-based strategy games.
7. Wildermyth
The last title on our list is Wildermyth, a turn-based strategy RPG in which players create a team of heroes who must band together to protect their world from various threats, such as monsters and invading forces.
It features a unique art style, with hand-drawn 2D graphics and a colorful, cartoonish aesthetic. The gameplay combines turn-based strategy combat with a strong emphasis on character development and story. Players must use their heroes’ abilities and terrain to gain the upper hand in battles against various enemies.
Along with all that, you must also manage your heroes’ abilities and gear and even foster relationships as you battle your way through various missions and quests.
Final Thoughts
The Steam Deck offers a fantastic platform for strategy game enthusiasts to play their favorite games on the go. From classics to modern hits, you are free to explore the vast library of Steam in search of your new favorite. But if you are looking for a place to start, try out the games on our list, and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
