Unearth These 5 Hidden Gems: Turn-Based Strategy Games Worth Revisiting

Highlights

Turn-based strategy games offer developers creative freedom and have a dedicated fanbase despite being considered a niche genre.

Games like

Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

,

Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon

,

Advance Wars: Days of Ruin

, and

Banner Saga

These underrated gems in the genre deserve to be revisited as they excel in gameplay, strategy, storytelling, and visuals, providing immersive experiences that warrant more recognition from players.

Turn-Based Strategy Games have recently gained significant interest, thanks to popular titles like Fire Emblem, Mario & Rabbids, and the upcoming Triangle Strategy. Although considered a niche genre, these games offer a wide array of incredible options, such as Civilization 6 and Final Fantasy Tactics. With limitless possibilities, developers have the freedom to create unique experiences within this genre.

Yet, despite the abundance of quality games, there are hidden gems that often go unnoticed or are quickly forgotten. The following games not only showcase exceptional turn-based strategy gameplay but also withstand the test of time and deserve to be revisited.

5 Tactics Ogre The Knight of Lodis

The Tactics Ogre series, especially the infamous release of Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, is well-known among hardcore fans of the genre. However, The Knight of Lodis, a Gameboy release, is not as widely recognized despite its remarkable quality and enduring appeal.

Acting as a prequel to Let Us Cling Together, Knight of Lodis revolves around Alphonse Loeher's perilous journey. This captivating narrative sheds light on the atrocities committed by his own country, Lodis, and explores the morally ambiguous nature of his combat unit. The game places great emphasis on player choices, both in gameplay and storytelling.

In terms of combat, Knight of Lodis offers a standard yet finely balanced strategy game experience. It features a solid difficulty curve, abundant customization options, and the ability to build a diverse party, similar to its successor. Players can easily become engrossed in Knight of Lodis, sinking countless hours into its immersive gameplay without even realizing it.

4 Fire Emblem Shadow Dragon

While it may seem unusual to claim that a Fire Emblem game has been forgotten, it is indeed the case. Many of the Fire Emblem titles that were not released on the Gameboy or the 3DS have not gained popularity beyond the fanbase. Shadow Dragon is one of these overlooked games that was released on the DS but did not receive much attention. Serving as a remake of the original game, Shadow Dragon follows the captivating story of Marth as he grapples with the loss of his family and the usurpation of his throne.

Although the characters in this game may lack development due to the absence of support conversations, its true strength lies in its captivating gameplay and strategic elements. With five difficulty levels, it presents a considerable challenge. The early game also introduces formidable enemy class types that demand careful tactics. Additionally, the game introduces unforeseen reinforcement spawns, adding an element of trickiness. All in all, it is an underappreciated gem that deserves a closer look.

3 Advance Wars: Days of Ruin

The Advance Wars franchise appears to have been forgotten by the world. Although the original two games were recently remade for the Nintendo Switch, it is surprising that there haven't been any new releases or support considering the games' quality and dedicated fanbase.

Among the series, Advance Wars: Days of Ruin is often overlooked. It takes place in a different world with new characters and a darker atmosphere, set in a post-apocalyptic setting. Despite these changes, the gameplay still captures the essence of Advance Wars and surpasses many other games in the genre. The addition of new terrain, unit types, and production options make the game strategically captivating and enjoyable. Overall, it is a highly underrated game that deserves more recognition.

2 Into the Breach

In 2018, Subset Games, an indie developer, achieved tremendous success with their game Into the Breach. This game, a turn-based strategy masterpiece, encompasses intense mech combat, requiring players to assemble their forces, safeguard civilian structures, and vanquish colossal creatures.

The combat in Into the Breach is exhilarating, with high stakes and a thrilling pace. The seamless integration of music and ambiance enhances the gameplay experience, while the captivating maps keep players fully engaged. Overall, this game is a formidable contender, and it is surprising that even after 5 years, it has yet to receive a sequel. For newcomers to the genre and devoted fans alike, Into the Breach is an absolute must-try. With its excellent replay value and additional content, it guarantees an immersive and satisfying gaming experience.

1 Banner Saga

The Banner Saga stands out as an exceptional turn-based strategy series. Among its three incredible games, the first one holds a special place. In this game, players take charge of Rook and his caravan, facing tough decisions to protect his daughter Alette and his people. Resources are scarce, making allies even more valuable.

The Banner Saga captivates with its stunning visuals and art style, conjuring a somber and melancholic world where survival is paramount. The story is tragic, and every choice the player makes carries immense significance. Undeniably, The Banner Saga ranks among the best strategy games of the past few decades, deserving greater appreciation.