Top Total War Alternatives: Discover Your Next Grand Strategy Game
Total War, a beloved turn-based and real-time strategy hybrid, has captivated players for years with its epic historical battles and grand campaigns. Titles like Total War: Attila and Medieval II: Total War even offer Linux compatibility, broadening its appeal. However, whether you've exhausted its offerings, are looking for a fresh challenge, or simply want to explore similar strategic depths, there are numerous excellent Total War alternatives worth considering. This guide will help you find your next immersive strategy experience.
Best Total War Alternatives
From city-building simulations to deep historical grand strategies and fast-paced RTS games, this list covers a diverse range of titles that will appeal to fans of Total War's unique blend of tactical combat and strategic empire management. Dive in to find your perfect match!
Widelands
Widelands is a fantastic free and open-source real-time strategy (RTS) game, offering single-player campaigns and a robust multiplayer mode. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it provides a compelling RTS experience for those looking for a free alternative to Total War with engaging gameplay and active development.
Stronghold
Stronghold Crusader, a key entry in the Stronghold RTS series, plunges players into medieval warfare where they can command armies as figures like Richard the Lionheart. This commercial title, available on Mac, Windows, Linux (via Wine), offers a strong RTS focus with castle building and siege mechanics, making it a great Total War alternative for those who enjoy military strategy and base management.
CaesarIA
CaesarIA is an open-source remake of the classic Caesar III city-building simulator, aiming to expand on its foundational gameplay. Available across a wide range of platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and even via Wine and Steam, it combines medieval city-building with elements of RTS, offering multiplayer options for a comprehensive experience that will appeal to Total War fans who appreciate strategic depth and historical settings.
Empire Earth
Empire Earth (EE) is a commercial real-time strategy video game known for its epic scope, spanning from prehistory to the nano age. Available on Windows and Java Mobile, EE offers grand-scale battles and strategic development across vast timelines, providing a diverse and expansive RTS experience that makes it a strong contender for those seeking a Total War alternative with a broader historical reach.
Europa Universalis
Europa Universalis IV grants players control of a nation, guiding it through historical eras to forge a dominant global empire. This commercial grand strategy game is available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Steam. While lacking the direct real-time battle control of Total War, its deep strategic layer, political intrigue, and historical immersion make it an excellent alternative for those who prefer the grand campaign aspect of Total War.
Tropico
The Tropico series offers a unique twist on the strategy genre, focusing on construction and management simulation where you play as El Presidente, a dictator of a Caribbean island nation. This commercial title, available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Wine, features intricate production chains and deep simulation mechanics. While different from Total War's battle focus, its strategic decision-making and nation-building elements appeal to players who enjoy long-term planning and economic management.
SpellForce
SpellForce blends real-time strategy with role-playing elements, set in the fantasy world of Eo, torn apart by a magical ritual. This commercial game is available on Windows, Linux, Wine, and Steam. Its medieval fantasy setting, multiplayer capabilities, and combination of RTS combat with RPG progression make it an intriguing Total War alternative for those who enjoy both strategic battles and character development.
Landrule Strategy of War
Landrule Strategy of War is a free, turn-based strategy game reminiscent of classics like Age of Conquest and RISK. Primarily available on Android, it allows players to test their strategic prowess against thousands in multiplayer mode. For Total War fans who appreciate the turn-based strategic map and global conquest, Landrule offers a simplified yet engaging mobile experience.
Advanced Strategic Command
Advanced Strategic Command (ASC) is a free and open-source turn-based strategy game designed in the spirit of the Battle Isle series. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, ASC can be played against both AI opponents and other players. Its focus on detailed turn-based tactical combat makes it a solid Total War alternative for those who prioritize the strategic planning phase over real-time action.
Bos Wars
Bos Wars, formerly Battle of Survival, is a free and open-source futuristic real-time strategy (RTS) game. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it supports multiplayer matches over LAN or the internet, as well as AI skirmishes. For players who enjoy the real-time combat aspect of Total War but are looking for a futuristic setting and an open-source option, Bos Wars is a strong choice.
Whether you're seeking free and open-source options, different historical periods, or a deeper dive into specific gameplay mechanics like city-building or grand strategy, this list of Total War alternatives offers a wealth of choices. Explore these titles to find the perfect strategic experience that aligns with your preferences and dive into new worlds of conquest and empire-building!