9.Desperados III
This latest installment in the long-runningDesperadostactical stealth series is as difficult as the previous games. If you prefer easier turn-based strategy games, you’ll want to look elsewhere on this list.
As the name hints, this game takes place in the Wild West, with all the outlaws and cutthroats that implies. Make sure to be on the lookout for items in the environment you can use as improvised weapons, as you’ll need any edge you can get on the higher difficulties.
8.Fae Tactics
Fae Tacticsis the type of indie game that’s easy to ignore on Xbox Game Pass because it isn’t a splashy AAA game.
But if you skip over it, you’d be making a mistake—especially if you’re a fan ofFinal Fantasy Tactics—since this turn-based tactical RPG has a lot to love for fans of that type of tactical combat.
The game’s gorgeous 2D artwork is a perfect backdrop for its battles. If you’ve been thinking about trying out a strategy RPG,Fae Tacticsis a great way to jump back into the pool.
Related:The Best RPGs on Xbox Game Pass, Ranked
7.Phoenix Point
If you prefer your turn-based tactics a little more modern and sci-fi than swords and sorcery—and if you love a challenge—givePhoenix Pointa try. The game is a spiritual successor toX-COM, designed by Julian Gollop, who gave us that franchise in the first place.
Maps are procedurally generated, meaning you’ll never fight on the same battlefield twice and you can’t memorize map layouts to roll through the same way every time, which givesPhoenix Pointgreat replayability.
6.Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector
At some point, they’re going to need to increase the number at the end of the name because the sheer amount ofWarhammer 40,000games coming out will top it before long.Warhammer 40,000: Battlesectoris a turn-based strategy game set in the grimdark40Kuniverse.
Warhammergames are a toss-up when it comes to quality, but developer Black Lab got it right withWarhammer 40,000: Battlesector.
5.Worms W.M.D
TheWormsseries debuted in 1995 with countless titles and spin-offs released since then, but the core gameplay remains intact. Fortunately, these 2D turn-based tactics games remain fun after all these years.
Worms W.M.Dis the latest proper entry in the series with all the same terrain-deforming, worm-blasting fun you remember in full effect.Worms W.M.Dwill scratch your tactics itch, and it’s also great as a party game!
Related:The Best Arcade Games on Xbox Game Pass, Ranked
4.Evil Genius 2: World Domination
This is one sequel that many thought we’d never see. The originalEvil Geniushit store shelves in 2004, letting you play as a villain building a lair that would fit right into anyJames Bondfilm.
Sure, it was basically a reskin ofDungeon Keeper, but the humor and art direction meant that didn’t matter.Evil Genius 2: World Dominationpicks up where the original left off, albeit several years later.
The game does an impressive job of looking and playing like you remember the original, but with some nice quality-of-life improvements and upgrades to gameplay mechanics.
3.Stellaris
Hailing from grand strategy powerhouse Paradox,Stellariswas first released for PC in 2016. This 4X strategy game pulls from classics likeSid Meier’s Civilizationas well as Paradox’s ownCrusader Kingsseries, making for a game much deeper than your standardCivilizationclones.
As the name implies,Stellaris: Console Editionis the same game but packaged for consoles. The game looks and plays great on Xbox Series X|S consoles as well as Xbox One.
2.Brütal Legend
WhetherBrütal Legendis a strategy game or a strategic action game has been debated since the game’s initial release. Double Fine head developer Tim Schafer has said the game is based on some classic RTS titles, but also said that you shouldn’t play it like an RTS.
Regardless of what genreBrütal Legendfalls under, it’s a sadly overlooked game with excellent battles and a fascinating world that looks like you’re traveling through a heavy metal album cover.
Related:The Best Xbox 360 Games on Xbox Game Pass, Ranked
1.Halo Wars
Before it launched, the idea of a real-time strategy game for the Xbox 360 set in theHalouniverse seemed like an idea destined to fail. But it didn’t, andHalo Warsturned out to be one of the best implementations of an RTS on any gaming console to date.
Halo Wars: Definitive Editiontakes the original game and gives it a gorgeous coat of paint. If you have Xbox Game Pass but never triedHalo Wars,Definitive Editionis the perfect reason to finally give it a shot.
Related:The Best Xbox Game Pass Games for Achievement Hunters
