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- Baldur's Gate 3
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- Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
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The 25 Best PlayStation 5 Turn-Based Strategy Games
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Vote on the PlayStation 5 turn-based games that offer the most fun, quality, and replayability.
Turn-based strategy games on PlayStation 5 showcase just how inventive and varied the genre can be in the modern era. From games that focus on intricate tactical battles to those that blend RPG elements with strategic planning, each title brings its own twist to classic, turn-based mechanics. The hardware leap on PS5 means these games not only play smoother and faster, but also look more impressive than ever, with detailed visuals and immersive soundtracks adding extra weight to every decision.
Whether it’s commanding armies across dynamic battlefields, developing civilizations through the ages, or experimenting with fresh systems like dice rolls or deck-building, these games highlight the genre’s ability to evolve while staying true to what makes turn-based strategy so compelling. The result is a diverse selection of experiences, some familiar, some totally offbeat, all united by the thrill of thoughtful planning and satisfying victories.
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How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Persona 5 Royal stands out in the turn-based strategy genre thanks to its stylish, fluid combat system and layers of strategic depth that reward creative thinking. The game mixes classic, menu-driven battles with unique mechanics like exploiting weaknesses and negotiating with foes, keeping every encounter fresh and engaging. Its blend of tactical planning, party customization, and richly atmospheric presentation makes it a must-play for fans who want more than just standard turn-based fare.
What the game is about:
Persona 5 Royal is a role-playing, social simulation game developed by Atlus and published by Atlus USA. The game was released for PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox One in 2022. Players join the Phantom Thieves of Hearts as they stage grand heists, infiltrate the minds of the corrupt, and make them change their ways. An enhanced version of Persona 5, the game features an additional Phantom Thief member, a new area of the city, new music, additional plot and social elements, a playable third semester, and many other changes and additions.- Released: 2022
- Developer: Atlus
- Genres (Video game): Role-playing, social simulation
- Series: Persona
- Publisher: Atlus USA
- Platform: PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox One
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- Sid Meier's Civilization VI
How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Civilization VI raises the bar for turn-based strategy by making every decision on the map matter, thanks to city-building mechanics that push you to think about terrain and placement in a whole new way. The game keeps things lively with unpredictable AI agendas and dynamic events, so you’re always adjusting your approach as the world evolves around you. Its depth, replayability, and constant surprises make it a standout choice for anyone who loves careful planning and big-picture strategy.
What the game is about:
Civilization is a turn-based strategy game in which you attempt to build an empire to stand the test of time. Become Ruler of the World by establishing and leading a civilization from the Stone Age to the Information Age. Wage war, conduct diplomacy, advance your culture, and go head-to-head with history’s greatest leaders as you attempt to build the greatest civilization the world has ever known.- Released: 2016
- Developer: Firaxis Games
- Genres (Video game): Simulator, Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Publisher: Aspyr Media
- Platform: Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS
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- Sea of Stars
How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Sea of Stars breathes new into turn-based strategy with its blend of tactical combat and real-time elements, encouraging you to think through every move and stay actively engaged in battle. The game skips tedious grinding and keeps things moving, letting you enjoy its vibrant world and creative mechanics without getting bogged down. With its gorgeous pixel art, dynamic lighting, and a soundtrack that sets the mood perfectly, it’s a standout for anyone who loves strategy games that feel both classic and fresh.
What the game is about:
Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG inspired by the classics. Promising the Sabotage touch in every system, Sea of Stars aims to modernize the classic RPG in terms of turn-based combat, storytelling, exploration and interactions with the environment, while still offering a hearty slice of nostalgia and good old, simple fun.- Released: 2023
- Developer: Sabotage
- Genres (Video game): Role-playing (RPG), Adventure, Indie
- Publisher: Sabotage
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
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- Octopath Traveler II
How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Octopath Traveler II shines in the turn-based strategy space with its multi-character party system, giving you a ton of flexibility to craft different strategies depending on the situation. The “HD-2D” visuals add a modern polish to classic, turn-based combat that rewards experimentation with character skills and synergies. Its layered approach battles, paired with meaningful choices both in and out of combat, makes it a standout for anyone who loves thoughtful, tactical gameplay.
What the game is about:
This game is a brand-new entry in the Octopath Traveler series. It takes the series’ HD-2D graphics, a fusion of retro pixel art and 3DCG, to even greater heights. In the world of Solistia, eight new travelers venture forth into an exciting new era. Where will you go? What will you do? Whose tale will you bring to life? Every path is yours to take. Embark on an adventure all your own.- Released: 2023
- Developer: ACQUIRE Corp.
- Genres (Video game): Role-playing (RPG)
- Series: Octopath Traveler
- Publisher: Square Enix
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5
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- Child of Light
How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Child of Light stands out thanks to its gorgeous hand-painted art style and a combat system that mixes classic turn-based strategy with a unique timing mechanic for extra depth. The game’s accessible upgrade paths and the ability to control Igniculus for real-time support add a layer of strategy without making things overly complicated. It’s a perfect pick for players who want a visually stunning, storybook-inspired adventure that still delivers satisfying, thoughtful battles.
What the game is about:
The Black Queen has stolen the Sun, the Moon and the Stars. You play as Aurora, a young princess with a pure heart whose soul is brought to the kingdom of Lemuria. Embark on a quest to recapture the three sources of light, defeat the Black Queen and restore the kingdom of Lemuria.- Released: 2014
- Developer: Ubisoft Montreal
- Genres (Video game): Platform, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
- Publisher: Ubisoft Entertainment
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii U, PlayStation Vita
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- Jagged Alliance 3
How this turn-based game stands out on the PS5:
Jagged Alliance 3 earns its spot in the genre by dialing up the unpredictability, battles keep you on your toes since the game doesn’t spoon-feed chances or outcomes, so you’re forced to adapt and think quickly. The mix of strategic map management and tactical, turn-based firefights gives every decision real weight, whether you’re modifying weapons, hiring mercenaries, or sneaking through enemy lines. It’s a smart blend of chaos and planning that makes each playthrough feel fresh and keeps strategy fans coming back for more.
What the game is about:
The country of Grand Chien is thrown into chaos when the elected president goes missing and the paramilitary force known as "the Legion" seizes control. Hire mercenaries, meet interesting characters, and fight in tactically deep turn-based combat in this true successor to a beloved franchise.- Released: 2023
- Developer: Haemimont Games
- Genres (Video game): Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical
- Publisher: THQ Nordic
- Platform: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
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