As of 2025, the PlayStation 4 continues to host a robust library of strategy games that challenge players’ tactical acumen, analytical prowess, and appreciation for historical contexts. Below is a ranked list of the best strategy titles available on PS4, encompassing turn-based, real-time strategy (RTS), and grand strategy genres, evaluated based on their depth, AI difficulty, and replayability.
1. Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
The latest installment in the esteemed Civilization series, Civilization VII introduces innovative mechanics that redefine the grand strategy experience. Players guide a civilization from antiquity to the modern era, with the game now segmented into three distinct ages: Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern. This structure adds layers of strategic depth, requiring adaptability to evolving challenges. The decoupling of leaders from specific civilizations allows for unique combinations, enhancing replayability. The overhauled diplomacy system offers intricate and rewarding interactions, though some players may find the increased complexity in religious and artifact-hunting mechanics demanding. Overall, Civilization VII provides an immersive experience that appeals to both series veterans and newcomers.
2. Age of Mythology: Retold
Age of Mythology: Retold brings the classic RTS game to the PS4 with modern enhancements. Players engage in mythological battles, commanding armies inspired by ancient legends. The game features an extensive campaign, diverse game modes, and polished gameplay mechanics. The introduction of the “Immortal Pillars” expansion adds the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology, offering new gods like Nüwa and Chi You. This remake demonstrates that RTS games can thrive on consoles, providing robust content including campaigns, cooperative multiplayer, and PvP modes, making it a must-play for strategy enthusiasts.
3. XCOM 2
XCOM 2 remains a benchmark for turn-based tactical strategy games. Players lead a resistance force against an alien occupation, making critical decisions on squad composition, research priorities, and battlefield tactics. The game is renowned for its challenging AI, which adapts to player strategies, ensuring that missions are tense and require thoughtful planning. The procedural generation of maps and missions enhances replayability, as no two playthroughs are identical. The necessity for strategic resource management and the permanent loss of soldiers add layers of depth that reward careful consideration and adaptability.
4. Stellaris
Stellaris offers a grand strategy experience set in the vast expanse of space. Players oversee a civilization’s exploration and expansion across the galaxy, encountering diverse species and navigating complex political landscapes. The game excels in providing depth through its intricate systems of diplomacy, warfare, and internal politics. The AI presents formidable challenges, particularly as players expand their influence and encounter rival empires with competing interests. The procedural generation of galaxies ensures that each playthrough offers unique scenarios, significantly enhancing replayability.
5. Crusader Kings III
Crusader Kings III is a grand strategy game that delves into the intricacies of medieval politics, warfare, and dynastic management. Players control a noble house, making decisions that affect the realm’s stability, expansion, and legacy. The game’s depth lies in its character-driven mechanics, where each decision can have far-reaching consequences. The AI operates on its own agendas, creating a dynamic and unpredictable political landscape that challenges players to adapt their strategies continually. The vast array of possible scenarios and outcomes ensures high replayability, as each playthrough can lead to markedly different narratives.
Conclusion
The PlayStation 4 remains a formidable platform for strategy enthusiasts, with a diverse selection of games that cater to different playstyles and strategic preferences. Whether leading civilizations to greatness, commanding mythical armies, orchestrating tactical battles, or navigating complex political landscapes, these titles offer deep, engaging experiences with immense replayability. Each game on this list brings something unique to the table, ensuring that PS4 players have plenty of tactical challenges to conquer in 2025 and beyond.
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