The Total War series has been a staple of strategy gaming for over two decades, blending turn-based empire management with real-time battles. Whether you enjoy commanding thousands of soldiers, managing intricate diplomacy, or rewriting history, there’s a Total War game for you. But with so many great titles, which ones stand out? Let’s break down the best Total War games and help you decide which battlefield to conquer next!
1. Total War: Rome II
Total War: Rome II had a rough launch, but after years of updates and expansions, it’s now one of the best historical strategy games out there. This game lets you take control of Rome (or one of its many rivals) and build an empire that will stand the test of time. The campaign map is massive, stretching from Britain to the Middle East, and offers endless replayability. Battles are as epic as ever, with thousands of soldiers clashing in beautifully detailed environments. Politics play a crucial role, and if you’re not careful, your own Senate might stab you in the back—literally. The unit variety is fantastic, from Roman legions to barbarian hordes and Egyptian war chariots. If you love grand strategy mixed with deep tactical combat, Rome II is an excellent choice. Plus, the modding community is thriving, offering even more ways to expand your experience.
2. Total War: Attila
If you thought Rome II was intense, Total War: Attila turns the difficulty up a notch. This game takes place during the collapse of the Roman Empire, meaning you’re constantly fighting to survive rather than expand. If you play as Rome, expect relentless barbarian invasions, economic struggles, and civil unrest. On the other hand, if you lead the Huns, you’ll get to tear civilizations apart with unmatched cavalry forces. The destruction mechanics make cities feel alive—burn them to the ground, and they’ll turn into ruins for decades. The winter is harsh, the battles are bloody, and the stakes are always high. This is Total War at its most brutal and unforgiving, perfect for players who want a real challenge. If you enjoy a darker, more survival-oriented experience, Attila delivers.
3. Empire: Total War
Set in the 18th century, Empire: Total War introduces gunpowder weapons, naval battles, and a sprawling campaign map covering Europe, America, and India. It’s a game about colonization, trade, and military dominance, making it a unique entry in the Total War series. Musket lines, artillery bombardments, and cavalry charges create thrilling battles that feel entirely different from the sword-and-shield combat of earlier games. Naval battles are a highlight, letting you command fleets in epic sea engagements. The economy and diplomacy systems are more advanced than in previous games, allowing for strategic depth beyond just warfare. Managing global empires means dealing with revolutions, rebellions, and economic crises. While the AI can be clunky at times, the modding scene has improved the experience significantly. If you love grand strategy with a historical twist, Empire is a fantastic pick.
4. Total War Saga: Troy
Inspired by Homer’s Iliad, Total War Saga: Troy blends history and mythology in a unique way. Instead of outright fantasy, the game uses “truth behind the myth” mechanics—Minotaurs, for example, are just elite warriors in bull masks rather than actual monsters. The campaign focuses on legendary figures like Achilles, Hector, and Odysseus, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Unlike traditional Total War games, resources are split into different types (food, wood, stone, etc.), adding an extra layer of strategy. The battles are fast-paced and heavily focus on hero duels, making combat feel personal. The game’s art direction is stunning, with a painterly style that makes the ancient world feel alive. While it’s smaller in scale than other Total War titles, it’s a fresh take on the series that fans of Greek mythology will love.
5. Napoleon: Total War
Napoleon: Total War builds upon Empire but refines everything to perfection. The game focuses on the Napoleonic Wars, putting you in the boots of one of history’s greatest military minds. The campaign is more structured, guiding you through Napoleon’s conquests across Europe. Battles are breathtaking, with cannon fire tearing through formations and musket volleys lighting up the battlefield. The AI is smarter than in Empire, making for more challenging engagements. The naval combat remains a standout feature, offering some of the best ship battles in strategy gaming. If you’re looking for a polished, well-paced Total War experience with a focus on one historical figure, Napoleon is a masterpiece.
6. Total War: Pharaoh
Total War: Pharaoh brings players to the Late Bronze Age, a period full of political intrigue, collapsing empires, and massive battles. Unlike previous games, terrain and weather play a bigger role—sandstorms can devastate armies, and dynamic environments force players to adapt their strategies. The diplomacy and politics systems are deeper, allowing you to manipulate alliances and betray enemies at the right moment. Battles feel more grounded, with realistic animations and detailed unit mechanics. The game offers a fresh setting, breaking away from the more commonly explored periods of history. If you want a Total War experience with unique mechanics and a fascinating historical backdrop, Pharaoh is worth checking out.
7. Medieval II: Total War
Many fans still consider Medieval II the best Total War game ever made. It perfectly balances deep strategy, intense battles, and historical accuracy. The medieval setting allows for a wide variety of playstyles, from noble crusaders to ruthless Mongol invasions. The campaign map is massive, featuring Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Religion plays a major role—aligning with the Pope can bring benefits, while defying him can lead to excommunication. Sieges are particularly exciting, with castle assaults feeling more intense than in any other Total War game. The game’s modding community is legendary, keeping it alive with new content even today. If you want a Total War game that still holds up after all these years, Medieval II is a must-play.
8. Rome: Total War
Before Rome II, there was Rome: Total War, the game that defined the series. Even after all these years, it remains one of the most beloved strategy games ever made. The simplicity of the campaign makes it accessible, but the battles are still deep and rewarding. Watching Roman legions clash against barbarian hordes never gets old. The soundtrack is iconic, the campaign is addictive, and the modding scene has kept the game alive for decades. If you want to experience Total War history, this is where it all began.
9. Total War: Shogun 2
Shogun 2 is often called the most polished Total War game. Set in feudal Japan, it focuses on tactical battles, political intrigue, and strategic depth. The campaign is beautifully balanced, offering a mix of diplomacy, warfare, and economy management. The battles are visually stunning, with samurai warriors clashing in cinematic fashion. Unlike other Total War games, Shogun 2 forces you to think carefully about honor and loyalty—betrayals have serious consequences. The Fall of the Samurai expansion adds modern warfare to the mix, making for an incredible experience.
10. Total War: Three Kingdoms
If you love deep characters and diplomacy, Three Kingdoms is a masterpiece. The game brings the legendary Chinese Three Kingdoms period to life with dynamic storytelling and tactical battles. The relationship system between generals adds a new layer of strategy, making alliances and betrayals feel personal. The campaign is stunning, full of rich detail and historical depth. If you’re looking for a more immersive Total War experience, this is the game for you.
Final Thoughts
Every Total War game offers something unique. Whether you prefer historical accuracy, fantasy elements, or deep diplomacy, there’s a title for you. Which one will you conquer next?
