The best strategy games for Android in 2022

Strategy games can take many forms, from fast-paced RTS matches to measured turn-based games. However, you don’t need to limit yourself to one sub-genre to enjoy the best Android strategy games.

We have compiled a list of the best strategy games available for mobile devices. From established franchises like Civilization to indie gems like Bad North, there’s a brilliant strategy game for every gamer. Here are some of the best Android games guaranteed to keep your strategic gaming skills sharp.

Civilization VI

Civilization’s name needs no introduction; The venerable franchise has won the hearts of strategy lovers for decades, and now it’s on mobile. It’s the same experience you’d expect on a desktop, but with enough UI tweaks to make it comfortable to play (although we recommend playing on an Android tablet for the best experience).

Civilization VI puts you in command of a civilization of your choice, from England to the Huns. You will have to guide them through history, defeating your rivals, researching technology and spreading your religion. It is a fantastic experience that will absorb you for hours. Just be aware that older devices may have late-game performance issues.

in the gap

Into the Breach is a roguelike puzzle game that puts you in command of three robots to save humanity. You will fight against the Vek, giant alien monsters who are determined to destroy you and the human cities you are protecting. Each battle is divided into turns, where you can take as long as you like to maneuver your mechs into the optimal positions. Clever positioning will trap Vek into attacking each other or burning alive, where one mistake can have catastrophic consequences for your game.

Into the Breach is one of the best turn-based strategy games available on mobile, but as a Netflix exclusive, you’ll need a subscription to play. Our Netflix game guide will get you up to speed if you’re unfamiliar with the service.

bad north

Another fantastic indie roguelike, Bad North pits your men against waves of ferocious Vikings, hell-bent on watering the ground with their blood. You will give general orders to your soldiers, but they will respond intuitively. This smart AI allows you to avoid micromanagement and focus on the bigger battle. Much like Into the Breach, one wrong move can cost you the battle and send you back to the start, so plan carefully.

Bad North is also a visual masterpiece. Attractive cliffs and flowers decorate each procedurally generated island; take a moment to admire the view before the ground turns red.

The Battle of Polytopia

Love Civilization VI but want something a little more laid back? The Battle of Polytopia has you covered. This isometric strategy game may seem quaint, but it has everything that the most popular 4X games have to offer. Once you have chosen your tribe, you will engage in warfare, diplomacy, and espionage to achieve victory. There are three ways to achieve success, and each requires a completely different strategy.

The Battle of Polytopia is the most accessible 4X strategy game available on mobile devices, but it will take some time before you master the game. It is complex, rewarding and essential.

Bloons TD 6

Once a titan of the online flash gaming world, the Bloons franchise has seamlessly moved over to mobile devices. Bloons TD 6 is the latest entry and is easily the best. It’s a reasonably simple tower defense game at its core; place monkeys to defend yourself from enemies, which are dispatched in several waves. The monkey vs. balloon concept may seem silly, but you’ll need to practice with all the tools at your disposal to win.

Bloons TD 6 has a colossal number of game modes and maps to play on; while the standard game mode will keep you busy for hours, try one of the more challenging modes to see how well you know your balloons.

Medieval Total War II

Total War Medieval II is one of the best games in the Total War genre, and its Android port is a perfect take on the classic game. While you can expect the same content from the desktop version, the user interface has been completely overhauled for mobile devices. It takes a bit of getting used to using the touch screen to control massive armies, but it’s intuitive enough to win battles in no time.

Northgard

Northgard follows the 4X formula but trims down into a smaller RTS package. You’ll be building your economy, researching technology, and defeating your rivals, but unlike Civilization VI, Northgard matches won’t take more than an hour or two. It’s perfect for people who love complex strategy games but don’t have time to sit for hours.

Northgard’s RTS format keeps the action flowing, but don’t worry about getting overwhelmed. Simple gameplay means you’re leading your pack of Norse marauders to victory in no time.

rusty war

Rusted Warfare is a complete RTS game that works wonderfully on mobile devices. Inspired by 90’s real-time strategy games, Rusted Warfare gives you access to a staggering number of units to control, from small tanks to massive battleships. While the graphics look dated, this is meant to help evoke the nostalgic feel of games like Total Annihilation.

The chaotic battles can seem overwhelming at first, but Rusted Warfare is surprisingly easy to pick up and play. Touchscreen controls make it easy to send groups of units into battle, and the limited number of buildings help keep production lines organized.

Engage your brain with a strategy game

These strategy games are sure to put your planning skills to the test. Whether you’re playing against the tricky AI of Into the Breach or challenging a friend to a game of Rusted Warfare, these games cover all aspects of the genre. However, you might want to relax with a good story, so try one of the best RPGs for Android once you’re tired of winning games.