9.SteamWorld Heist
Turn-based tactics games usually take place from either an overhead or isometric point of view.SteamWorld Heistturns that on its side, literally, by using a side-scrolling view similar to what you’d see in a 2D platformer.
This leads to some excellent ricochet aiming mechanics, which makes this another great entry in theSteamWorlduniverse.
8.The Banner Saga
Are you looking at this list and thinking that all of these games seem too… happy? ThenThe Banner Saga Trilogyis for you.
The atmosphere starts out relatively bleak, and things just keep getting worse as you make your way deeper into the series. That said, the addictive gameplay will keep you coming back.
7.Valkyria Chronicles 4
Like the rest of theValkyria Chroniclesseries, the fourth installment is a turn-based affair set in a fictional world during a conflict not entirely unlike World War II (here it’s the Second Europan War).
The twist is that when you take control of a character, you’re not moving them on a grid or hexagonal map. Instead, you control the character directly, setting up shots or getting behind cover!
Related:The Best RPGs on the Nintendo Switch
6.Battlestar Galactica Deadlock
So far, every game on this list has been a turn-based affair where you take your turn, then the enemy takes its turn, and so on.
Battlestar Galactica Deadlockis also turn-based… but in more of a “set it up and watch it fall apart” style that’s seen in the WeGo genre of strategy games.
You plan your actions at the same time as your enemy, and then both sides play out simultaneously. This gives battles a much more hectic-and-out-of-control feeling, which is perfect for theBattlestar Galacticauniverse.
5.Into the Breach
FTLdeveloper Subset Games didn’t dial back the difficulty when crafting their turn-based mecha-strategy gameInto the Breach.
Each new combat encounter feels like a puzzle to be solved. You can still win the “wrong” way, but getting through a battle unscathed is much more satisfying than just scraping by.
Related:The Best Nintendo Switch Puzzle Games
4.Civilization VI
One of the original 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) games, Sid Meier’sCivilizationseries has been essential for strategy fans since 1991.
While the series' heart is still on PCs, this sixth installment works surprisingly well on the Nintendo Switch. Great if you want to grow your empire on your morning commute.
Related:The Best Nintendo Switch Games That Were Ported From Other Consoles
3.Disgaea 5
TakeFinal Fantasy Tactics, make it funny, then add 15 more different gameplay systems. That’sDisgaeain a nutshell.
This is the latest entry in the series, originally released for the PlayStation 4. The first and fourth games in the series are also available on the Nintendo Switch as well.
2.Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle
I’m not sure who was the one who said, “What if we didXCOMbut with Mario?” And then decided it would be better to incorporate the rabbids from Ubisoft’sRaymanseries. But I’m glad they did!
While things start off easy enough, the difficulty inMario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battleramps up. You’ll be glad the series is so whimsical when you start getting to the tougher fights.
Related:The Best Nintendo Switch Exclusive Games, Ranked
1.Fire Emblem: Three Houses
TheFire Emblemgames have been steadily gaining popularity in the US for years, butFire Emblem: Three Housesis where the series finally hit the mainstream.
Combining turn-based tactical battles with an immersivePersona-style school sim full of ragtag kids becoming proper fighters, every ingredient in this video game stew is addictive.
Related:The Longest Nintendo Switch Games That’ll Last 50+ Hours
