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11 Games Like Civilization - Best Turn Based Strategy Games

Ranked #34 in Games, #572 overall

11 Games Like Civilization - Best Turn Based Strategy Games

Are you a fan of the Civilization game series? Looking for other games like Civilization? There are many great strategy games (turn-based and real-time) available across multiple platforms.

Recently the turn based strategy genre has declined in popularity and the number of game releases has slowed making it difficult to find good games like Civilization (thus a majority of the strategy games here are real-time focused). Civilisation is definitely one of the best turn based strategy games available but there are still a few other standouts in the genre worth playing.

Some of the games on this page are games like Civilization V while others are games like the earlier installments of Civilization, regardless of your preference you will find a game that suits your style and preference.

Let us know what you think about our games like Civilization collection or recommend another game in the comment section at the bottom of the page.

Want more games? Try the user voted games like Civilization from GamesLikeFinder.com

Image Credit: Amazon.com

The Civilization Games

Some Of The Civ Games

Contents

11 Games Like Civilization:

  1. 1 - Total War (Series)
  2. 2 - Space Empires (Series)
  3. 3 - Galactic Civilization (Series)
  4. 4 - Dark Age Wars
  5. 5 - Endless Space
  6. 6 - Master Of Orion (Series)
  7. 7 - Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri
  8. 8 - Age of Empires (Series)
  9. 9 - R.U.S.E.
  10. 10 - Dragons of Atlantis
  11. 11 - Evony: Age II
  12. What Is Your Favourite Game Like Civilization?

Games Like Civilization

The Best Turn Based Strategy Games

1 - Total War (Series)

One Of The Best Turn Based Strategy Games Like Civilization

total-war-seriesThe Total War series is one of the highest rated strategy games and combines deep turn based combat with resource management aspects.

The Total War series has players playing several roles (leaders, generals, mayors etc.) within their civilization (depending on the game). From here the player manages land and armies in a turn-based style while battles take place in real time. Players must effectively manage their settlements, military production, economic growth and technological advancements.

The game series began in 2000 and has quickly expanded to include 7 main games in the series. Players are taken on journeys through Japan, medieval Europe, Rome and many others. The games all feature high scores on Metacritic and even have some demos available through Steam, allowing you try before you buy.

The standout game of the Total War series is definitely Total War: Shogun 2 (shown below) which holds a very high score of 90 on Metacritic.

Empire: Total War Demo (Steam)
Napoleon: Total War Demo (Steam)
Total War: SHOGUN 2 Demo (Steam)

Total War: Shogun 2

My Favourite Total War Game

Total War: Shogun 2

Total War: Shogun 2 is the direct sequel to Total War: Shogun and is the most recent addition to the Total War franchise. The game focuses on streamlining gameplay while keeping the deep complex strategy that the Total War series is known for.

The result is a highly enjoyable and addictive game that both appeals to veterans and newbies of the strategy genre. The game has received critical acclaim, holding a score of 90 on Metacritic.

Other Total War Titles

Total War: Shogun 2

Video Review

Total War: Shogun 2 Video Review
by IGN | video info
2,077 ratings | 360,579 views
curated content from YouTube

2 - Space Empires (Series)

A Space Game Like Civilization

space-empires-seriesThe Space Empires game series is one of the longer lasting 4x turn based strategy games available. The series started back in 1993 and has since grown to 5 different games with the latest one being released in 2006.

In Space Empires players take control of a civilization that has only recently unlocked space technology. Players start out with minimal options for their ships but eventually advance to build ships far superior (and larger). Diplomacy (or lack of) also plays a large role in Space Empires as players encounter other races.

The only real complaint from critics was that the game is very complex and sometimes features too many options. Space Empires is best avoided if you are new to turn-based strategy games but die hard fans of the genre will enjoy every minute.

Space Empires V - Official Website (Demo Available)
Space Empires V - Steam

Space Empires 5

Buy & Download The Game From Amazon

Space Empires 5 [Download]

Space Empires 5 is the latest addition to the Space Empires series and offers a massive amount of gameplay with deep strategy to back it up.

Fans of 4x strategy games will not be disappointed with this space style game like Civilization.

Space Empires V Trailer

Space Empires V Trailer
by WhichEntertainment | video info
83 ratings | 95,861 views
curated content from YouTube

3 - Galactic Civilization (Series)

Another Space Inspired Strategy Game Like Civilization

Galactic-CivilizationsGalactic Civilizations is a series of turn-based strategy games released in 2003 and 2006. The goal of the games is to dominate the entire galaxy through war, culture, diplomacy or technological advancement. The game series has been praised for its solid computer AI that has multiple personalities and routines, making each play significantly different.

The games focus on campaign and sandbox style gameplay modes and do not offer multiplayer. The game does however allow modding which has created lots of extra content.

The second game in the series offers players nearly a dozen races, a rock/paper/scissors style of ship building, moral choices and even random events that can alter the course of a game dramatically.

Galactic Civilizations II earned Editor's Choice awards from IGN, GameSpot and GameSpy shortly after its release and has received overall highly positive reviews, holding a score of 87% on GameSpot.

Players looking to get into the Galactic Civilization series should look into Galactic Civilizations II and its two expansions (Dark Avatar and Twilight of the Arnor).

Galactic Civilization Series - Official Website
Galactic Civilizations II: Ultimate Edition - Steam

Galactic Civilizations II Gold

Grab The Gold Pack For The Game and Expansion!

Galactic Civilizations II Gold

The Galactic Civilizations II Gold comes with the original game and the Dark Avatar expansion allowing you to enjoy more game content for a reduced price.

Fans of Civilization will feel right at home in this space style strategy game.

Galactic Civilizations 2 Gameplay

Galactic Civilizations 2 Gameplay (PC)
by Andy Tan | video info
34 ratings | 66,010 views
curated content from YouTube

4 - Dark Age Wars

An Online Game Like Civilization

dark-age-warsDark Age Wars is an online game like Civilization that is set in Medieval Europe. Players must build up their kingdom, develop their economy and create a strong military to attack other players.

Players start out as a king given the duty to develop their kingdom after returning home from the crusade wars. There is a great variety of buildings and military units available in the game and players can even team up with others to form alliances for fun and interactive team based play.

This browser based game like Civilization offers that classic strategic gameplay that fans of Civilization will love. What's even better is the game is actually set in a map of medieval Europe (giving you a realistic experience).

Play Dark Age Wars

Dark Age Wars

DarkAgeWars Videoreview / Test
by mygamesdynamite | video info
4 ratings | 6,836 views
curated content from YouTube

5 - Endless Space

One Of The More Recent Games Like Civilization

endless-spaceEndless Space is a turn based strategy game like Civilization that features the 4X gameplay that Civilization fans love.

The game is one of the most recent turn based strategy games to be released meaning it offers both outstanding graphics and deep strategic gameplay. In Endless Space you can choose from one of eight distinct space civilizations and battle the computer or other players in randomly generated maps (that support up to 8 players).

Winning is determined by a predetermined objective which can be military, economic or diplomatic in nature. The game uses a unique combat system that is simple to learn but is deep enough that you won't be shying away from combat.

If you are looking for a modern game like Civilization that you can't look past Endless Space.

Endless Space - Steam

Endless Space

Download The Game From Steam Now

Endless Space Admiral Edition [Download]

Endless Space offers a great 4X gameplay experience and stunning visuals to deliver an all around great game. Purchase the game from Amazon now (download provided by the Steam platform).

You'll love the gameplay, interface, graphics and characters of the Endless Space game and will definitely want to play the game multiple times to test different strategies.

Battle for control of an entire galaxy in this popular strategy game.

Endless Space Trailer

Endless Space - Trailer
by IGN | video info
510 ratings | 180,213 views
curated content from YouTube

6 - Master Of Orion (Series)

One Of The Classic Games Like Civilization

master-of-orionMaster Of Orion was one of the original 4X strategy games and was released in 1993 (two years after Civilization).

Two sequels were also created Master of Orion II (1996) and Master of Orion III (2003).

The Master of Orion games have players face off against computer controlled opponents for galactic domination. Players start off on a single planet with limited ships and must explore and expand from these humble beginnings.

Victory can be achieved by either eliminating all enemies or reaching a peaceful resolution. Players have complete control over technology, ship building, combat and diplomacy.

If you are interested in purchasing Master of Orion, I strongly recommend buying from Good Old Games (GOG.com) to prevent any compatibility issues.

Master Of Orion 1 & 2 - Good Old Games

The Master Of Orion Games

Downloads and Physical Shipping

Let's Play - Master Of Orion

Let's Play Master of Orion pt 1
by GetDaved | video info
113 ratings | 20,789 views
curated content from YouTube

7 - Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri

An Older Sid Meier's Game Like Civilization

Alpha-CentauriSid Meier's Alpha Centauri (SMAC) takes places in a science fiction setting and features the 4x turn-based strategy that Civilization fans know and love. The game is often considered to be a 'sequel' to Civilization II and contains many of the same features (just in a different story and setting) making it a great option if you are looking for a game like Civilization.

The game starts with players landing on the planet Chrion in the 22nd century. From here the player must choose their faction (each with their own characteristics and ideological goals). Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri features social engineering, weather, native alien life, customizable units and a varied number of ways to win.

The game is highly praised with the only thing standing in its way is the outdated graphics, but true turn based strategy fans will instantly be able to look beyond this and enjoy the game immensely.

Official Website - Firaxis Games (Demo Available)
Purchase SMAC From Good Old Games (GOG)
Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri - IGN Review (9.5/10)

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri

Grab The Complete Edition (Game and Expansion Pack In One)

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Complete

Sid Meier (the mind behind the Civilization series) brings you Alpha Centauri, a space turn based strategy game like Civilization.

The complete edition (shown here) also comes with the Alien Crossfire expansion pack.

Thanks to the random world generator and various AI strategies the game offers infinite replay-ability.

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Intro

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Intro
by matsku84 | video info
409 ratings | 212,465 views
curated content from YouTube

8 - Age of Empires (Series)

A Historical Real Time Strategy Game Like Civilization V

age-of-empiresWhile Age of Empires doesn't involve turn-based combat it is still a great game like Civilization. The game series offers great single player campaigns along with strong multi player gameplay.

The Age of Empires game series began in 1997 and since then has grown into a popular gaming franchise and even includes an online version.

The Age of Empires titles follow historical events across Europe, Asia and Africa and involves time periods spanning from the Stone Age to the Iron Age. Age of Empires has been a success commercially selling over 25 million copies.

Age Of Empires 3 (Complete Collection) - Steam
Play Age Of Empires Online

Age of Empires 3

The Latest Age of Empires Game

Age of Empires III (Gold Edition)

The Age of Empires III Gold Edition is the perfect place to start in the Age of Empires series.

At a single price you get the original game along with the expansion packs to offer even more game content.

Other Games In The Age of Empires Series

Age of Empires 3 Review

GameSpot Review: Age of Empires 3
by musket09 | video info
571 ratings | 397,983 views
curated content from YouTube

9 - R.U.S.E.

A Popular Real Time Strategy Game

RUSE-gameWhile R.U.S.E. doesn't offer turn based gameplay its interesting real time elements still make it a good game like Civilization. The game is also one of the few on this list that is also available on console (PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360).

The focus of the game is more geared towards global strategy as opposed to micro management which will either appeal to you or not depending on your personal preferences.

R.U.S.E. offers great gameplay replay ability through the number of different ways to beat campaign levels and the inclusion of multiplayer (complete with many possible game modes).

R.U.S.E. - Official Website
R.U.S.E. - Steam (Demo Available)

Grab A Copy Of R.U.S.E

(Multiple Platforms)

R.U.S.E. Trailer

Trailer - R.U.S.E. "Announcement Trailer" for PC, PS3 and Xbox 360
by CGRtrailers | video info
15 ratings | 14,155 views
curated content from YouTube

10 - Dragons of Atlantis

A Free Online War Strategy Game Like Civilization

Dragons-of-AtlantisDragons of Atlantis is a free online strategy game like Civilization and is available through the Kabam website or Facebook. In case the name didn't give it away Dragons are a big game aspect of of the game playing the role of both ally and enemy.

Dragon of Atlantis gives players the ability to build a powerful empire in an exciting and mysterious game world along with the ability to raise your own personal Dragon to help with the defence of your city.

Play Dragons of Atlantis (Kabam Website)
Play Dragons of Atlantis (Facebook)

Dragons of Atlantis Official Trailer

Dragons of Atlantis Official Trailer
by KabamGames | video info
2,996 ratings | 851,560 views
curated content from YouTube

11 - Evony: Age II

A Free Online Game Like Civilization

Evony-Age-logoEvony: Age II is an online game like civilization that is set in medieval times. Players must establish their own city, develop technologies, build structures and grow an army to attack other players.

Evony involves a persistent world where the game continues even if players logout. As such new players are given protection from attacks so that they have time to learn the various game systems.

Players start as a Lord (or Lady) of their own city and from there give instructions to their population on how to gather and spend resources (Gold, Lumber, Food, Iron and Stone). Players can then focus on building their army with a mixture of foot troops and siege weapons to defend their town (or attack their neighbours).

Play Evony: Age II Online

Evony Age II First Look

Evony Age II First Look
by Evony | video info
15 ratings | 19,560 views
curated content from YouTube

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What Is Your Favourite Game Like Civilization?

Or Know Some Other Games Like Civilization?

  • Knights of Honor (2005) best medieval music and history in the game!!!
  • A fantastic lens! Some great games here!
  • An excellent page. My only quibble: you left off Master of Magic. :( To this day, it remains the greatest example of this sort of game ever made.
  • For me, there is no game like Civilization. Civilization games are unique! But the Total War series are splendid also (I like Rome and Medieval above all)
  • best game series ever and it was educational too.
  • Nothing compares to the TOTAL WAR series games. Best strategy games I have ever played, and waiting patiently on Rome 2
  • wheres Company of Heroes?
  • I love civilization and other strategy games. Great list, although I wouldn't have said Shogun Total War was anything like civilization...
  • Nice lens. I have played a few of these but still prefer Civ.
  • Hi guys, been a fan of Civ for a while, but was wondering if any of you could recommend a game like civ but with a few twists. such as random world event happenings (earthquakes, Floods, Volcanoes) and/or managing trade routes for a higher income?
  • Enjoyed the list...well done
  • I am not convinced Civilization has much in common with Age of empires!
  • It definitely depends on what you are looking for in the game. But it's definitely one of the less obvious games like.
  • Great list/collection - thanks!
  • Load More

by

SammySpam

Sam has long been a fan of the Civilization series. and has looked far and wide to find more strategy games like Civilization.

Feeling creative? Create a Lens!

Total War: Shogun 2 

Total War: Shogun 2 [Online Game Code]

Total War: Shogun 2 [Online Game Code]

Choose your clan and battle through an intense single player campaign or go online to play competitively or cooperatively. Physical shipping and direct download available.

Endless Space 

Endless Space Admiral Edition [Download]

Endless Space Admiral Edition [Download]

Endless Space offers an amazing 4X strategy game experience and is one of the newer games like Civilization available. The game offers many unique features and ultimately offers a deep strategic experience.

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri 

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Complete

Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri Complete

From the same brain that brought you the Civilization series, Sid Meier's Alpha Centauri offers a random world generator and powerful AI that will will keep you busy for hours on end.