Grand strategy games can seem rather challenging to get into, and it's easy to see why this is the case. These titles feature complex gameplay loops and a bunch of things that players need to keep track of at all times. As a result, many gamers feel as though the genre has a huge barrier to entry, but, in reality, it only takes a few minutes and a focused mind for players to understand the basics of most grand strategy games.
For what it's worth, this genre has done a great job of making its titles more accessible to the average player over the years. The mere fact that these seemingly complex games are available on more casual platforms like consoles is proof enough of that. The best grand strategy games on consoles boast finely-tuned controls to allow players to comfortably control huge societies with relative ease.
1 Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 is easily the most popular grand strategy game in recent years. Paradox Interactive should be commended for simplifying the mechanics of such a complex strategy game and making it easier for the masses to understand. The combination of a simple yet effective tutorial along with a wealth of informative tooltips and a reminder of any pressing concerns ensures that players are always on top of things while roleplaying as their prescribed ruler.
This game was so successful that Paradox Interactive simply had to go for a console port, which was a surprising yet admirable effort that allowed a whole new demographic to experience the magic of Crusader Kings 3 for themselves. The title is immensely complex and full to the brim with unique ways to craft a personalized story as players create and destroy historical empires.
2 Stellaris
Stellaris is another great title by Paradox Interactive that brings the brilliance of the grand strategy genre to a sci-fi setting full of intergalactic politics and betrayal. Stellaris' gameplay systems are genuinely brilliant and one of the best parts of the experience, and fans will love role-playing as a particular race and working to ensure that their galactic empire reaches new heights.
Depending on the natural traits of a race, players have to either destroy all sentient life or co-exist in harmony. The sheer number of options at a player's fingertips is genuinely incredible, and the fact that this game was ported to consoles three years after its release on PC proves just how popular and successful it really is.
3 Sid Meier's Civilization 6
The Civilization series is easily one of the most well-known in the grand strategy genre. These titles boast deep and engaging gameplay, with players being able to select from one of many historical figures to govern the rise of an empire and ensure a victory condition through one of the many end-game objectives in Civilization 6.
The series is legendary for obvious reasons, with players absolutely loving the act of creating a vast and impressive empire that will stand the test of time. Through a combination of diplomacy and warfare, both PC and console players can achieve victory and become one of the greatest nations of all time.
4 Age Of Wonders: Planetfall
Age of Wonders: Planetfall is easily one of the most underrated grand strategy video games available on console. Any fan of the genre owes it to themselves to check out this brilliant title in which players control one of the six factions that are vying to secure humanity's future, obliterating any threats and uncovering the history of the world in the process.
The game can be quite a challenge to get into, but dedicated players who are interested in the mechanics and setting won't be disappointed with what's on offer here. Each faction provides a unique and distinct form of gameplay, and the release of this title on consoles means that more and more people can experience its excellence for themselves.
5 Romance Of The Three Kingdoms 14
Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a long-running grand strategy series that fans of the genre should be quite familiar with by now. Despite having mechanics that may not be as deep as many other titles in the genre, Romance of the Three Kingdoms is still a great game for fans of Japanese history to check out, particularly those who like the idea of playing a more intimate role in events.
The 14th game in the series continues the long-running tradition of Romance of the Three Kingdoms, even if some people aren't very impressed with what's on offer. Regardless, players who don't mind dealing with the more finicky aspects of this title's gameplay will have a great time with what Romance of the Three Kingdoms 14 has in store for players. This title is perhaps the only example of a grand strategy series that has always been on consoles, and Romance of the Three Kingdoms 14 certainly continues this tradition.