Video Game Genres: What are Strategy Games?

What do you get when you combine complex scenarios, your own quick thinking, and a healthy dose of fun? Strategy games—video games that prioritize player decision-making to drive the action in potentially unlimited ways. Strategy games aren't just about the thrill of the “win,” they're also about thinking ahead and outsmarting your virtual (or real-life) opponents. And along the way, you may sharpen your mind.

Sure, role playing games (RPGs) can take you on epic quests, action-adventure games deliver excitement, and first-person shooter (FPS) games test your reflexes with fast-paced action. But strategy games like Civilization VII and Starcraft II—two of today's most popular titles—offer something different. They put you in charge, letting you craft the plan, control the pace, and make the big choices that push the game ahead.

And here's the best part. No matter how you like to think, there's a strategy game for you. Prefer a methodical approach? Turn-based strategy games let you take your time. Or if you enjoy the faster-paced action, real-time strategy games will keep you on your toes. There are also so-called 4X games where you can create your own wildly imaginative empires, or, if you prefer building and running more conventional communities, there's another sub-genre called management sims. The list goes on.

This article dives into the fascinating world of strategy gaming. We'll describe some of the genre's most iconic games and explore why strategy games are so undeniably captivating—with millions of fans around the world. You'll also find guidance for selecting the perfect strategy game tools, from gaming laptops and gaming desktops that power the action to headsets and other gaming accessories that add to the fun.

Introduction to Strategy Games

Do you sometimes find yourself plotting three steps ahead? Weighing risks against rewards? Orchestrating a complex plan that you're sure will get results? In real life, this makes you a careful thinker and planner. In the virtual world, it means you're almost certain to enjoy the family of video games called strategy games.

Strategy games are a digital playground for intellectual challenge and tactical mastery. But what are they, exactly? Keep reading to learn more

What are strategy games?

As the name suggests, strategy games are a genre where players use strategic thinking to make decisions that shape the course of the game. Whether you're on a quest, forging a path, or negotiating a treaty, you've got to think several steps ahead—planning moves, managing resources, and adapting.

The genre offers something for everyone, with games that focus on real-time strategy, turn-based strategy, and more. Some games focus on building thriving societies, while others test your ability to outwit opponents in combat or through diplomacy. In this sense, strategy games are a playground for creative problem-solving.

What are the different kinds of strategy games?

Within the broad category of strategy-based video games, there are many sub-genres:

• What are turn-based strategy (TBS) games? Take your time and think carefully—there's no rush. Turn-based strategy games, like XCOM 2, let you execute decisions at your own pace as you take turns with the game itself or other players. Perfect for players who enjoy thoughtful, methodical gameplay, TBS games often involve managing troops, resources, and strategy over extended play sessions.
• What are real-time strategy (RTS) games? Fast-paced and intense, real-time strategy games demand split-second decisions while managing resources and units in real-time. A popular example is Age of Empires IV, a go-to title for strategy game fans that's known for its historical campaigns and tactical complexity.
• What are 4X strategy games? Incorporating elements of both TBS and RTS, 4X strategy games (“explore, expand, exploit and exterminate”) ask you to build an empire. And not just the bricks and mortar—you've also got to think about building the economy, developing technology, and more. Popular examples include Stellaris and the Civilization series.
• What are grand strategy RPGs? Grand strategy role playing games focus on large-scale, long-term planning, often involving entire nations or empires across long historical periods. They emphasize diplomacy, economics, and politics alongside military strategy. Europa Universalis, Crusader Kings, and Hearts of Iron are examples.
• What are tower defense games? Another popular type of strategy game, tower defense games have players strategically placing defensive structures to stop waves of enemies from reaching a target. Popular examples include Plants vs. Zombies and the Bloons TD series.
• What are auto battler games? In auto battlers, players assemble a team of characters or units with complementary tools and abilities. Once ready, battles play out automatically without direct player control, emphasizing up-front strategic planning over real-time action. Teamfight Tactics and Dota Underlords and oft-mentioned examples.
• What are management simulation games? These games, often called just management sims, task you with controlling complex systems such as cities, businesses, or institutions. You plan ahead, balance resources, and solve problems to achieve growth and public support. Examples are Cities: Skylines and Kerbal Space Program.
• What are card strategy games? Deck-building meets tactical gameplay in card strategy games, where players collect and customize a set of cards to use in strategic battles or challenges. Success relies on creating effective card combinations and adapting to opponents' moves. Games like Hearthstone and Slay the Spire are in this category.

No matter the sub-genre, strategy games stand out by making you think ahead and then adapt as things change. But what truly sets them apart from other video game genres? Let's find out.

How are strategy games different from other kinds of video games?

Strategy games aren't about quick reflexes or high-octane action typical of FPS and action games. Instead, they focus on planning, patience, and resource management. Unlike role playing games (RPGs), which highlight character-driven stories, strategy games emphasize systems and mechanics.

In strategy games, success depends on more your ability to think critically and less on the equipment your character wields or how fast you can fire a weapon (though these skills may still be involved). And while strategy games can feature gripping narratives like RPGs, the gameplay often feels like a grand puzzle. The reward isn't just winning but knowing you've out-thought your opponent.

Do I need a specific laptop or accessories to play strategy games?

Strategy-based video games are hugely popular, with fans around the world spending hours playing on consoles, laptops and desktops. But while consoles are purpose-built—and choices are relatively few—laptops and desktops come in widely different configurations.

So what kind of gaming laptop or gaming desktop do you need for strategy games? Fortunately, there's considerable flexibility in hardware requirements. Here's what to know:

Computer requirements for strategy games: Generally speaking, strategy games are more processor-intensive than other genres, where RAM volume and graphics abilities can be more important. So mid-range laptops and desktops with decent CPUs can run many turn-based games like the Civilization series smoothly, though real-time strategy games with large unit counts might need more power.

Before buying or upgrading, go to the website for your favorite strategy game and find the manufacturer's recommended—not just minimum—specifications for the title. It's the best way to ensure you'll have what's needed for the smoothest gameplay (as opposed to just “acceptable”). Here are examples of the game-makers' recommended specs for two of today's popular strategy games at the time this article was written:

*Recommended requirements will change over time. Always check the game maker's website.

Essential accessories for strategy games: Of course, your PC is just the biggest part of your gaming set-up. If you're like millions of other gamers, you'll equip yourself with some useful peripherals to help you compete.

Here's a simple list of the most-used accessories for strategy game players. And note that even if you use a laptop, some accessories that are typically associated with desktop PCs, like external monitors, may still help you “up” your gameplay:

• Mouse: Essential for precise aiming, unit selection, map navigation and more. Gaming mice—built specifically for video games—often have extra buttons designed to help you with specific, repetitive game moves and actions.
• Keyboard: Important for in-game hotkeys and essential shortcuts. Dedicated gaming keyboards not only make key-presses easier and faster, they also often feature special lighting effects that look great in your game room.
• Monitor: Larger displays make gameplay easier on your eyes, which can help in contests involving large maps and long journeys. And higher-resolution displays can give you a more precise view of terrain and opponents, improving your aim.
• Headset or speakers: Video games are as much about sound as sight, so the better you can hear the action (or your teammates), the better you'll play. Many gamers choose to use gaming headsets, or big external speakers, for better audio.
• Desk and chair: If you spend long hours gaming, comfort is important. Some players go all-out and equip their game set-up with specialized gaming desks and gaming chairs, which are ergonomically designed to help keep you focused.

When your budget is a constraint—and lots of gamers are on tight budgets—start with a more modest laptop or desktop that's upgradeable (ask customer support before buying). With the right model, you can later move to a faster processor if you start playing more complex games in the future.

Strategy Games in 2025: What's Popular?

Strategy games in 2025 blend time-tested in-game mechanics with cutting-edge technology, delivering more realism, depth, and variety than ever before. Whether you're building vast empires, commanding battle squads, or managing intricate city infrastructures, these games challenge your mind. And in some cases, they're redefining the strategy game experience.

Here's what gamers online say are some of today's best, must-play strategy games:

• Civilization Series

  First released in 1991 by Firaxis Games under Sid Meier, the Civilization series—a 4X TBS game where you build an empire with limited resources—is an industry benchmark. Fans describe the latest version, Civilization VII (2025), as endlessly replayable thanks to its unpredictable strategic elements that challenge players to adapt in each new session.

• XCOM Series

  The XCOM series is widely celebrated for innovative tactical strategy and high-stakes decision-making. In the latest version, XCOM: Chimera Squad, humans and aliens team up to save a city from underground threats, with reviewers praising its intense, emotional game scenarios. The series has a complex history dating to the 1990s; the latest iterations from Firaxis Games started in 2012.

• SimCity

  Created by Maxis and introduced in 1989, SimCity helped shape the entire management sim genre. While not new, SimCity remains a leading strategy title in 2025. Fans love the challenge of moving their city forward, like a local mayor, and balancing competing community needs. New factories? New parks? You decide.

• Factorio

  Factorio has been recognized as one of the most sophisticated resource management games since it was first released in 2016 by Wube Software. Unlike other games in the category, here you build factories to create interesting products—and, of course, defend them from raiding creatures. Players praise Factorio for its intricate logistical systems and optimization mechanics.

• StarCraft

  Launched by Blizzard in 1998, StarCraft is credited as one of the most influential RTS games ever made. Though StarCraft II updates have slowed, esports events and community-driven tournaments keep the franchise alive. It's got a militaristic angle, featuring a fight for galactic dominance, and wins praise for the way it balances the competing factions and forces players to keep thinking.

Strategy gaming in 2025 is shaped by ongoing refinements to beloved franchises. Whether optimizing cities, commanding armies, or navigating diplomacy, the games listed above continue to captivate players with evolving mechanics and deep strategic play.

And not surprisingly, new strategy games continue to be released. Here are some recent titles that are getting attention in 2025:

• Total War: Medieval III: Medieval III (2024) drops you into the chaos of medieval warfare, where you'll command massive armies of up to 10,000 units and shape the fate of empires with the "Dynasty" system, which reviewers have called innovative. Navigate political intrigue, forge alliances, engage in epic battles, and more.
• Frostpunk 2: Survival is never easy, and Frostpunk 2 (2025) pushes players to their limits with its ethical dilemmas and societal challenges. Developed by 11 bit studios, this sequel builds on its predecessor's legacy, blending city-building with tough moral decisions in what reviewers describe as a frozen, unforgiving world.
• Old World: Generational storytelling and character-driven narratives take center stage in Mohawk Games' Old World (2025 expansion). The “orders" system is considered unique and there's a focus on historical realism as you navigate dynasties, politics, and military campaigns in this turn-based title.
• Age of Wonders 4: Elemental Tides: You'll dive into underwater realms and naval warfare with the "Elemental Tides" expansion for Age of Wonders 4 (2024). Triumph Studios boosted the fantasy strategy game, with reviewers citing the vibrant new environments, customization tools, and the game's thriving modding community.
• Stellaris II: Space strategy reaches for new heights in Paradox Development Studio's Stellaris II (2025). With dynamic "Galactic Currents," intricate diplomacy, and a vast galaxy to explore, you'll shape the destiny of an interstellar empire.

Conclusion

Strategy games are all about brains over brawn. They challenge you to think ahead, adapt to changing scenarios, and figure out the best way to win. And the variety is immense: real-time strategy (RTS) classics like Age of Empires IV keep you on your toes, while turn-based gems like XCOM 2 ask you for thoughtful planning.

To succeed in these games, skills like critical thinking, adaptability, and efficient planning are your allies. Of course, your skills shine best on the right gaming setup. Strategy games often demand both precision and performance, and your choice of gear matters.

Lenovo gaming laptops and gaming desktops strike the ideal balance between power and performance—all within cool designs. Whether you value seamless gameplay on large map-worlds or need to multitask while you're playing, Lenovo hardware meets all the demands of strategy gaming. Plus, we offer all the key gaming peripherals such as high-res displays, gaming headsets, and other accessories.

Ready to think? Plan? Execute? Strategy games are more than just fun; they're about smart choices. And your turn is next!