Grand strategy games are some of the most educational video games since they not only help players learn important historical facts but improve their critical thinking skills too. Thanks to grand strategy games players can also learn about diplomacy, economic systems, and even various military strategies in a fun way. These games are also enjoyable for players of all levels since most of them have simpler mechanics and difficulty settings.
While playing, gamers can travel back in time and get to know various cultures and civilizations better while also gaining a deeper appreciation for all historical periods. Some of these educational games might be more historically accurate than others, but thanks to them, players can have an immersive experience while engaging in historical situations as well as getting to know vital historical figures, societal structures, and political systems that formed and created the world players live in today.
7 Total War: THREE KINGDOMS
Total War: THREE KINGDOMS is one of the most impressive Total War games that transports its players back in time to ancient China and lets gamers experience this fascinating historical period interactively. Players will be able to step into the shoes of powerful Chinese warriors and engage in epic battles.
During their journey, players will have to make critical decisions not just about warfare and diplomacy but will have to manage resources as well. Fans also get a better understanding of military tactics during this era. Total War: THREE KINGDOMS provides its players with accurate historical information as well as detailed character biographies that also help them understand the social structures and customs during China's Three Kingdoms period.
6 Crusader Kings 3
Crusader Kings 3 is one of the most exciting grand strategy games for beginners that help players learn about the medieval time period. Players can step into the shoes of some of the greatest leaders of the era and build their kingdoms while going on an immersive and highly educational journey.
During their adventures, gamers will also get a chance to get to know medieval customs and social structures while using their strategic and diplomatic skills to build and manage their relationships and oversee the economic well-being of their kingdoms. For example, players will learn about the various kinds of contracts that vassals owed their lieges, and how feudalism gave way to more centralized governmental systems the deeper they get into the game.
5 Knights Of Honor 2: Sovereign
Knights of Honor 2: Sovereign is another educational grand strategy game that helps players get to know the medieval time period through the eyes of the nobility. It's a great choice for those players who are fans of knights in video games and want to try a complex and immersive game.
Players will have to make vital strategic decisions relating to warfare and diplomacy as they encounter rival lords and forge powerful alliances to gain new territories as well as protect their land from invaders. Thanks to Knights of Honor 2's vivid world, players can also learn about the various feudal systems as well as the cultural nuances of different regions in an entertaining way.
4 Hearts Of Iron 4
Hearts of Iron 4 is an excellent choice for players who love challenging grand strategy games that transports them back in time to World War II. More experienced players can even try the total conversion mods in Hearts Of Iron 4 to further challenge themselves and get an even better understanding of how WWII shaped the world.
Hearts of Iron 4 not only offers an immersive experience but is a historically accurate game that lets its players rewrite history to their liking. During their adventures, players will get to engage in massive battles on land, sea, and air, engage in diplomatic negotiations, and gain a better grasp of the complexities of war.
3 Europa Universalis 4
Europa Universalis 4 is not just for history buffs but for all players who enjoy creating their own historical scenarios to explore alternative outcomes. This grand strategy game takes its players on an epic journey through Europe's history.
Players will not only learn about the 15th to 19th century but can shape the destiny of nations. Players will have to guide their chosen country through centuries of political, economic, and military challenges while trying to forge powerful alliances, negotiate treaties, conquer new territories, trade, and expand their country's influence across the globe.
2 Victoria 2
Victoria 2 transports its players back in time into the transformative era of the 19th century when rapid industrialization and technological advancements reshaped the world. This immersive grand strategy game is historically accurate and takes its players around the globe while letting them choose from over two hundred playable nations.
Players will have to heavily rely on their diplomatic and strategic skills if they want to increase their influence and grow their nation. Thanks to Victoria 2, players will be able to better understand various political ideologies including liberalism, conservatism, and socialism as well as other complex social issues of the era. Fans can experience a similarly educational adventure (especially when it comes to economics) with its sequel, Victoria 3.
1 Civilization 6
Civilization 6 has a strategic depth that makes the gameplay not only educational but also highly replayable. Fans will get to build their very own empires and witness all the pivotal moments in history that defined humanity.
Players will start their journey in the ancient era and will get to use their planning, strategic, and diplomatic skills as they forge new alliances, lead scientific breakthroughs, trade, and engage in epic battles throughout the centuries. In Civilization 6, players can meet iconic historical figures, get to know ancient civilizations and learn about various cultures and architectural wonders around the globe.