While some well-known PC games have been ported to Android, our list of the best Android games features many outstanding exclusives that demand a lot of strategic thinking to complete and have difficult foes and missions. These games demand serious strategy rather than being simple puzzle games.
In this article, Gurugamer is going to showcase the top 10 best strategy games on Android in 2023.
1. Civilization VI
The most recent iteration of the Civilization franchise, which is well-known and adored by strategy fans everywhere, is now accessible on mobile devices. While the game is mostly the same on Android comparing to its Desktop version, it is recommended to use a tablet to play as there are lots of micromanagement to do. Players in Civilization VI are responsible with governing and running any civilization of their choosing, from the Huns to England.
To succeed, players must overcome rival civilizations, conduct research to improve their technology, and spread their religion. The game is highly engaging and can consume hours of your time, although it may experience performance issues on older devices during late-game stages.
2. Bad North
Bad North is a roguelike game with a Viking theme where players must lead their troops against waves of ruthless marauders who seek to spill blood on the ground. Before the battle begins, players provide general instructions to their soldiers, who then respond intuitively to the enemy's actions. This design approach eliminates the need for micro-management, allowing players to focus on the larger battle. Similar to Into the Breach, a single misstep can lead to defeat, causing players to restart the game, making it crucial to plan every move carefully.
Apart from its gameplay mechanics, Bad North is also notable for its stunning visuals. Each procedurally generated island features picturesque cliffs and flowers that enhance the overall aesthetics. Players can take a moment to appreciate the view before the island turns into a battlefield, with the ground being drenched in blood.
3. Into the Breach
Into the Breach is a roguelike puzzle game where players defend humanity from destruction by space bugs. Each combat is limited to five turns, and players can only restart the game once if they make a mistake. The key to winning is to strategically position the mechs to trap the Vek, causing them to attack each other or perish in flames. However, a single error in your tactics can result in disastrous consequences for your battle.
4. The Battle of Polytopia
If you enjoy playing Civilization VI but prefer a more laid-back game, The Battle of Polytopia might be the perfect choice for you. This isometric strategy game may look simple, but it offers everything that more popular 4X games provide. Once you've chosen your tribe, you'll have to engage in warfare, diplomacy, and espionage to achieve success. There are three distinct paths to victory, and players need unique strategy for each.
The Battle of Polytopia is easy to play but hard to master. It is intricate, fulfilling, and a game that you shouldn't miss.
5. Total War: Medieval II
Total War: Medieval II is regarded as one of the best games in the Total War series, and its Android version is nearly identical to the original. You don't need to worry about control as the interface has been overhauled for mobile devices to make playing more pleasant. It may take some getting used to directing enormous armies with a touchscreen, but the UI is simple enough that you'll master it soon and win fights. For the greatest experience, we recommend playing this game on a tablet.
6. Bloons TD 6
The Bloons franchise, once a prominent figure in the online flash game industry, has successfully transitioned to mobile devices. Bloons TD 6 is the most recent addition to the series and is regarded as the finest. At its core, it is a relatively simple tower defense game where players must place monkeys to protect against waves of incoming enemies. The idea of monkeys battling balloons may appear absurd, but it takes skillful use of every tool available to emerge victorious.
Bloons TD 6 offers an extensive range of game modes and maps. Although the standard game mode is sufficient to keep players engaged for several hours, trying out one of the more challenging modes can reveal how well you understand the mechanics of monkeys and balloons.
7. Rusted Warfare
Rusted Warfare is a complete real-time strategy game available on mobile that pays homage to the RTS games of the 90s. You have a vast range of units to command, from small tanks to enormous battleships, although the graphics appear outdated, it's deliberate to capture the essence of classic RTS games like Total Annihilation.
The tumultuous battles might seem intimidating at first, but Rusted Warfare is deceptively simple to pick up. The touch controls make it effortless to direct groups of units into combat, and the small number of buildings make it easier to manage your production lines.
8. Northgard
Northgard adopts the 4X strategy formula but presents it in a more condensed RTS format. You'll still need to develop your economy, research new technology, and defeat your enemies, but unlike Civilization VI, games in Northgard won't take more than a few hours. This makes it ideal for strategy game enthusiasts who want a challenging game without the time commitment of multiple days.
9. Sigma Theory
Sigma Theory is a game that revolves around espionage, where you're in charge of leading a team of agents to exploit a significant scientific breakthrough that can change the world. The game has a similar vibe to XCOM, but it doesn't involve battles. Instead, your choices during conversations are crucial, and a wrong decision can have severe consequences later in the game. Therefore, it's crucial to be careful while interacting with powerful organizations.
10. XCOM 2
XCOM 2 is considered the ultimate version of the well-known turn-based strategy series. Those new to the franchise will be fascinated by the challenging turn-based combat.
Each move counts, and while one bad decision can lead to disaster, executing the perfect ambush is a sensation that cannot be replicated. There is also a wealth of customization options available, allowing you to build a squad that is completely unique to your style.
>>> Read more: 10 Best Racing Games To Play On Android And iOS (2023)