5 best turn-based strategy mobile games (2024)

Turn-based strategy mobile games are characterized by a methodical turn-based approach where strategic thinking is key to success. In these games, every move is vital as the player has to strategize against the opponent and manage resources besides controlling a large number of units or characters.

We have compiled a list of unique and addictive turn-based strategy mobile games that demand players to have simultaneous control of combat, construction, and resource management. Each game has its unique selling point and different game design framework that makes it stand out from mainstream turn-based games.

Note: This list is based on the author's opinion and is in no particular order.

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List of best Turn-Based Strategy mobile games to download today.

1) Star Traders 4X Empires Elite ($5.12)

In Star Traders, players will take charge of humanity's survivors and rebuild the civilization in the stars (Image via Trese Brothers)

Star Traders 4X Empires Elite is a turn-based tactical space exploration and conquest mobile game based on the 4x genre (explore, expand, exploit, exterminate). Each player is an owner of a huge interstellar empire that controls colonies, fleets, and diplomacy.

The core gameplay loop revolves around resource management, space colonization, and combat, with each turn being a strategic challenge to expand and protect the empire from other factions. The diplomacy system of the game allows players to negotiate for peace, coalition, or even declare war. Every action has consequences on economic development and military strength.

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2) Dungeon Warfare 2 ($4.76)

In Dungeon Warfare 2 there are over 30 traps and 8 traits to each (Image via Valsar)

Dungeon Warfare 2 is a strategy mobile game similar to Tower Defense where the focus is on placing traps and managing resources. Instead of controlling towers, players construct and place traps in randomly generated dungeons, making decisions depending on the enemies's waves. Every trap has its strengths and weaknesses and tactically using them can be game-changing.

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3) The Battle of Polytopia (Free)

Battle of Polytopia has successfully encapsulated the complexity of 4X games into bite-sized simple gameplay (Image via Midjiwan AB)

The Battle of Polytopia is a simple strategy game where the player moves their tribe through turn-based combat to become the dominant civilization. The main gameplay revolves around exploration, expansion, and conquest.

Each turn is dedicated to developing your civilization, battling neighboring tribes, and expanding your territory through player agency. The maps are generated procedurally, ensuring that no two games are the same, and the battles require tactical and strategic thinking, catering to both casual and hardcore players.

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4) Wildfrost (Free)

Players can play the demo of Wildfrost and then decide whether they want to buy it (Image via Chucklefish Limited)

Wildfrost is a roguelike deck-building strategy mobile game set in the frozen wasteland of a stylized desolate post-apocalyptic world. Its core gameplay loop is based on using and improving the deck of cards to fight through levels and advance through levels. The turns are based on a selection of cards to attack, defend, or support allies with a focus on synergizing between cards.

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5) Warbits+ ($4.88)

In Warbits+, players can build and share custom maps with the community (Image via Risky Lab)

Warbits+ is a bright turn-based tactical mobile game where players can control armies on turns. Its core gameplay loop is based on gathering supplies, creating units, and positioning the troops on the battlefield. The game also features intense multiplayer features which increases replayability and difficulty.

For the turn, the player can move their units, fight intense battles with enemies, and capture resources with a turn-based combat system. Even though the visual appears minimalistic, the game requires deep strategy, planning several moves, anticipating the enemy's actions, and coordinating forces simultaneously.

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