Honorable mentions. The best strategy games of 2023

There were also strategic games that, for various reasons, didn't receive enough votes in our poll to make it to the main list, but they are still worth mentioning. Adam "T_bone" Kusiak helped prepare this list of honorable mentions – many thanks!

The Troop

The Troop, Giant Flame, 2023.

The Troop is a perfect title for more hardcore strategy fans who like the World War II setting. Giant Flame's debut takes you to the fields of Normandy, where you'll lead British and Canadian forces in intense battles against the German army. A wide range of infantry units and armored vehicles will be at your disposal.

An important feature of The Troop is the fact that it is a turn-based strategy. According to the developers, this helps to avoid issues that affect RTS games, such as random errors from imperfect unit path selection or unplanned vulnerability to enemy fire. Thus, everything depends on your tactical skills – the responsibility for possible defeat will rest only on you.

Against the Storm

Against the Storm, Eremite Games, 2023.

Another game worth looking at is an unexpected gem by Polish studio Eremite Games. Against the Storm is a city builder with a fantasy atmosphere and a style akin to Warcraft. This title was released on December 8th, so it didn't qualify for our voting, but we can definitely say that it is an exceptional game. Both journalists and players around the world were quick to acknowledge Against the Storm, eagerly giving it high scores.

And what specifically is that game? In a nutshell, it's about combining a city builder with a roguelike in a world plagued by cyclical storm. Our task is to build settlements around the Smoldering City, which resist the influence of cataclysm. All of this aided by a vibrant community of humanoid foxes, beavers, lizards, and other unique creatures.

Second Front

Second Front, HexDraw, 2023.

Feel free to try out Second Front if you're interested in a slightly more specialized but great strategy game set in the realities of World War II. This turn-based game, released at the beginning of the year by the MicroProse, will test your military command skills. What matters here is not just the strength of the fire, but also the morale and physical condition of the soldiers.

The developers deserve the highest praise for the excellent scenario and map editor, which provides immense freedom and allows us to unleash our creativity. This tool is simple to use, making it accessible to anyone, not just the most dedicated fans.

Cities: Skylines 2

Cities: Skylines II, Colossal Order, 2023.

The new installment of the beloved city builder by Colossal Order is quite a problematic title. It's not possible to categorize it as one of the top strategies that debuted this year, as it has faced numerous issues since its release, impacting the opinions of both critics and players.

However, there's no denying that Cities Skylines 2 is a game that developers will continue to improve for years, and it will only get better with each new patch and expansion. It's already possible to consider this game as a unique foundation for the next great city builder, which fans will spend hundreds if not thousands of hours with. Therefore, if you enjoyed the first installment or simply love this genre, stay tuned and give the sequel a chance at the appropriate time.

Phantom Brigade

Phantom Brigade, Brace Yourself Games, 2023.

Phantom Brigade spent several years in Early Access on the Epic Games Store, making it a peculiar case. The version 1.0 release this year impresses with great environmental destruction and a unique turn system, where we plan moves on a timeline and then observe the simultaneous actions of all units (WEGO). All of this is enhanced by a complex system for modifying mechs and a strategic element where we liberate successive areas from enemy control.

The Great War: Western Front

The Great War: Western Front, Petroglyph, 2023.

Petroglyph is a significant studio for RTS enthusiasts, and despite the recent surge in popularity of World War I-themed shooters, it is still considered niche. The Great War skilfully demonstrates the strategic nightmare of attacking successive trench lines during the war, highlighting the significant influence of historical consultations conducted in collaboration with the British Imperial War Museum at every step. However, the strategic aspect of the game, where we manage forces and supplies, lacked depth. Despite the issues that appeared at the premiere, The Great War: Western Front can be confidently recommended to those seeking a unique RTS experience.