Multiplayer strategy games are having a major moment in 2025. Whether you’re into large-scale warfare, medieval kingdom building, or interstellar domination, this year’s lineup offers something for every type of strategist. From genre-defining classics to ambitious newcomers, the current strategy scene is rich, competitive, and more connected than ever.
Why Multiplayer Strategy Games Matter
Strategy games test your mind, your patience, and your ability to adapt. But when you bring in multiplayer, the stakes rise. Human opponents behave in unexpected ways, pushing your skills beyond what AI can simulate. Whether you’re teaming up with friends in co-op modes or going head-to-head in ranked ladders, multiplayer strategy games create moments of triumph, betrayal, and unexpected alliances.
1. Civilization VII
- Release Date: February 11, 2025
- Platforms: PC, macOS, Linux, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch
The long-running 4X strategy giant returns with a revamped era system and hybrid civilization-building mechanics that allow players to customize cultures. While the UI and balance have sparked debate, its new features, expanded diplomacy, and improved modding tools have kept fans engaged. Civilization VII is a must-play for anyone who enjoys turn-based planning, tech-tree optimization, and global domination with friends.
2. Tempest Rising
- Release Date: April 24, 2025
- Platforms: PC
A spiritual successor to Command & Conquer, Tempest Rising is pure real-time nostalgia with a modern twist. Classic base-building, tech trees, and fast-paced unit control return, but with crisp visuals and smooth online play. Multiplayer includes ranked matchmaking and a thriving custom map scene. RTS fans who miss the golden age of Westwood Studios should jump in.
3. Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era
- Early Access: Summer 2025
- Platforms: PC
Old-school turn-based tactics meets RPG storytelling in this reimagining of the classic franchise. Players return to Enroth with new mechanics like hero class trees, dynamic events, and modular campaigns. Multiplayer modes include competitive duels, co-op adventures, and even roguelike scenarios generated from community mods.
4. Beyond All Reason
- Status: Free-to-play (ongoing development)
- Platforms: PC (Windows, Linux)
An open-source juggernaut, Beyond All Reason lets you command thousands of units in enormous, physics-driven battles. With its strong modding community and frequent balance patches, it’s one of the most active and evolving RTS titles available. Inspired by Total Annihilation and Supreme Commander, it’s ideal for players who love scale, speed, and smart automation.
5. Manor Lords
- Expected Release: 2025
- Platforms: PC
Combining the economics of city-building with Total War-style real-time battles, Manor Lords lets you manage a medieval barony from peasant taxes to battlefield tactics. Every decision—whether it’s zoning farmland or commanding cavalry—affects your long-term survival. Its single-player and multiplayer support make it one of Steam’s most wishlisted games for a reason.
6. TMNT: Tactical Takedown
- Expected Release: 2025
- Platforms: PC
This surprise tactical title brings the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles into a turn-based arena. Each turtle has unique gear, skills, and campaign missions that interweave to tell a larger story. Multiplayer includes both hot-seat and asynchronous play. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and surprisingly deep.
Multiplayer Staples Still Going Strong
- StarCraft II: The benchmark for competitive RTS with a huge legacy in esports.
- Total War: Warhammer 3: A rich fantasy sandbox with dynamic alliances, massive battles, and mod support.
- Crusader Kings 3: A dynasty simulator where you can ally or backstab your friends over centuries.
- Homeworld 3: A visually stunning space RTS that brings 3D combat back into focus with co-op modes and classic skirmishes.
What’s Driving the Genre Forward
- Cross-platform support is becoming more common, letting console and PC players battle together.
- Cloud saves and asynchronous modes mean you don’t need to be online at the same time as your friends.
- Community content and mods are thriving, with games like Beyond All Reason and Civilization VII supporting extensive player-created features.
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to jump into multiplayer strategy games—or you’re a long-time tactician looking for your next obsession—2025 is full of smart, strategic choices. The only hard part is deciding where to start.
