The best turn-based games

Looking for more precise suggestions? We strongly recommend checking out our personal list of the best turn-based games to play in 2026.

What are turn based games?

We’ve already established that a turn means the time when you can execute actions that you’re allowed to perform, either by such statistics as stamina, mana level, or time to perform the particular move. You might believe that games made for long sessions are the only reasonable option to employ such a solution, which isn’t true at all. In fact, there are a number of turn based RPG titles that rely on this notion heavily, not even mention the massive universe of Final Fantasy games.

Various types of turn-based games

There are multiple genres that implement turn based tactics in the core of production. The first one would be the previously mentioned role-playing genre. You can imagine how essential this system is in a title where you have to think of how many life points you have left and what your companions are doing at the moment. 

The other type of game that benefits from the game mechanics in question is turn based strategy games. It’s really difficult to imagine these without some sort of a limit to how much you can do, as well as it’s rather tricky to manage all of the game elements simultaneously in real-time productions. They have a lot of followers, although turn based combat is just way more transparent. In addition to that, you can take your time before making the next move rather than acting on the spot. This is especially fitting for people who need to take every factor into careful consideration.

You could say that all of the genres mentioned above are actually turn based tactical games, and you wouldn’t be too far from the truth. It’s precise because you normally have enough time to consider your options and then make a decision that these sorts of games have their unique appeal. 

What are the best turn based games?

Now that we have a general idea of these mechanics, it’s time for the most important question: which of the titles featuring turn systems should you play? There are quite a few worth checking out, although let us name just two as a sort of introduction. Let’s name the first proposition of the most noteworthy turn based games of 2026.

Darkest Dungeon is a weird specimen. It’s really easy to get started with, although when you begin your adventure, you’ll see how demanding this quasi-RPG title is and how great the graphics look in spite of their simplicity. In this case, it all worked together perfectly. If you're looking for the hottest product of the past few years, Baldur's Gate 3 should be your go-to option.

The second fantastic title from this genre has to be XCOM 2. The unpredictability makes it so that you’re never fully sure whether you’re prepared for what’s to come or not. Well, we’re talking about aliens that pacify the remaining human insurgents, so that’s something that you really want to prepare for. 

These were the two picks from the massive list of all turn based games. As you can imagine, there are several more titles that deserve to be among the two we mentioned. Tactics and turns can go many ways, and this variety makes this type of title really special. No other thing to say other than see it for yourself.