Since its inception, Civilization has been the go-to choice for gamers who enjoy strategy and world-building genres. While the game saw its popularity rise through word-of-mouth, it's far from the only gem in the genre. Many games like Civilization bring the same balance of tactics, management, and progress.
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Discover The Some of the Best Games Like Civilization; See Full List

However, some titles in particular demand our attention due to their fresh ways to test our strategic thinking. From Freeciv to Humankind, these games provide deep tactical decision-making and addictive turn-based progression. In this post, we will take a look at the top 10 best games like Civilization considered the best alternatives.
Top 10 Best Games Like Civilization
While Civilization is a popular game in the community, many marquee names stand out as better alternatives. From SEGA to Paradox Interactive, many publishers offer a stunning gaming experience. Here are the top 10 best Civilization like games:
| Rank | Game Name | Release Date | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stellaris | 9th May 2025 | Paradox Interactive |
| 2 | Alpha Centauri | 9th February 2025 | EA/Firaxis |
| 3 | The Battle of Polytopia | 23rd February 2016 | Midjiwan AB |
| 4 | Europa Universalis IV | 13th August 2013 | Paradox Interactive |
| 5 | Freeciv | 1996 | Freeciv Project |
| 6 | Total War: Three Kingdoms | 23rd May 2019 | SEGA/Creative Assembly |
| 7 | Old World | 1st July 2021 | Hooded Horse |
| 8 | Humankind | 17th August 2021 | SEGA |
| 9 | Endless Legend | October 2024 | SEGA/Amplitude Studios |
| 10 | Age of Wonders: Planetfall | 6th August 2019 | Paradox Interactive |
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10. Age of Wonders: Planetfall

Have you always wondered how great it would be to not only interact with the aliens but also fight them to colonise their world? Age of Wonders: Planetfall gives you that experience. Instead of historical empires, players will colonise alien territories through tactical battles.
The game is all about your decision-making and strategic management. Age of Wonders: Planetfall was released back in 2019 by Triumph Studios. It is one of the best games like Civilization from Paradox Interactive.
| Platforms | PC Xbox One PS4 |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 6th August 2019 |
| Developer | Triumph Studios |
9. Endless Legend

Developed by Amplitude Studios, Endless Legend is another marquee name in our list of top 10 games like Civilization. Unlike other games mentioned in this list, Endless Legend is strictly for PC.
The developers have ensured multiple choices for a less monotonous experience. Unlike other games, in Endless Legend, players get to plan their strategy at the beginning. The option to make changes is minimal.
| Platforms | PC |
|---|---|
| Release Date | October 2014 |
| Developer | Amplitude Studios |
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8. HUMANKIND

If we are talking about the best alternative to Civilization, Humankind is the game that comes the closest. Published by SEGA, the game allows players to change the course of human history.
For the players who have always wanted to be a part of human history and make changes to create their own, this is the game for you. You can, for example, begin the game as Egyptians, evolve into Romans, and finish as Americans. Given how players can create hybrid worlds in the game, Humankind is considered one of the best games like Civilization.
| Platforms | PC macOS Xbox Series X/S PS5 |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 17th August 2021 |
| Developer | Amplitude Studios |
7. Old World

Published by Hooded Horse, Old World is a game that has the guidance of the lead designer of Civilization IV. Many players in the community consider it a spiritual successor.
The game approaches a Crusader Kings-style storytelling with turn-based mechanics. From managing valuable family relationships to ruling dynasties, you build your legacy in your empire with a strong influence beyond the borders. Developed by Mohawk Games, Old World is a popular title in the genre since its release back on 1st July 2021.
| Platforms | PC macOS |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1st July 2021 |
| Developer | Mohawk Games |
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6. Total War: THREE KINGDOMS

Total War: THREE KINGDOMS is another big name among the best games like Civilization. Developed by Creative Assembly, this game leans more toward real-time combat than turn-based strategy. The primary goal is to reunite all the kingdoms under one banner through diplomacy and politics.
Throughout the game, the generals form bonds and alliances that impact the overall experience. Launched back on 23rd May, 2019, Total War: Three Kingdoms is one of the best titles in the genre.
| Platforms | PC macOS Linux |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 23rd May 2019 |
| Developer | Creative Assembly |
5. Freeciv

Speaking of alternative games like Civilization, there is no better title than Freeciv. It is basically a love letter to the early Civilization games, and is totally free.
This is one of the games in the genre that supports both single-player and multiplayer modes. The game comes with customizable maps and mod support. Freeciv is available across PC, macOS, Browser, and other platforms.
| Platforms | PC macOS Linux Browser |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1996 |
| Developer | Freeciv Project |
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4. Europa Universalis IV

Developed by Paradox Interactive, Europa Universalis IV is one of the best games of its genre in the community. The title is especially favourite amongst the players who prefer large-scale historical campaigns.
Given the historical simulation the game provides, along with a unique take on international relations, it is one of the best games like Civilization.
| Platforms | PC macOS Linux |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 13 August 2013 |
| Developer | Paradox Development Studio |
3. The Battle of Polytopia

Developed by Midjiwan AB, The Battle of Polytopia is one of the titles on our list of best games like Civilization. Even though it is a mobile-friendly game, The Battle of Polytopia is worth checking out on PC.
The game offers 12 civilisations that boast stunning maps. If you are looking for Civilization like games, it is one of the best picks for now.
| Platforms | PC Android iOS Nintendo Switch |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 23 February 2013 |
| Developer | Midjiwan AB |
2. Alpha Centauri

Developed by Firaxis Games, Alpha Centauri arrived way before marquee titles such as Stellaris and Planetfall. It is believed that some creators of Alpha Centauri previously worked on Civilization II. You can only imagine how close an alternative this game can be.
In this game, players lead with their ideologies for survival and dominance in a brand new world. Due to its deep narrative, this game is still one of the favourites in its genre in 2025.
| Platforms | PC |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 9th February 1999 |
| Developer | Firaxis Games |
1. Stellaris

At the top of our list of games like Civilization, we have Stellaris. The game is pretty much Civilization at a larger scale. In the game, players begin with a single species and from there they start to expand and form a federation.
Moreover, players take part in interstellar wars. Developed by Paradox Development Studio, the game is known for its deep customisation options and random events.
| Platforms | PC PS4 PS5 Xbox Series X/S |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 9th May 2016 |
| Developer | Paradox Development Studio |
If you liked our alternatives to Sid Meier's Civilization, then do not forget to check out the top 10 best PC games in 2025 that you can try today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which strategy games are most like Civilization?
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Which strategy games are most like Civilization?
Stellaris, Alpha Centauri, and Freeciv are most like Civilization.
Are there any free games like Civilization?
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Are there any free games like Civilization?
Freeciv is a free and open-source alternative that you can consider.
Can I play Civilization-style games on mobile?
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Can I play Civilization-style games on mobile?
There are some games, like The Battle of Polytopia can be played on mobile.
Are there multiplayer games like Civilization?
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Are there multiplayer games like Civilization?
The Battle of Polytopia is a great multiplayer game like the Civilization.
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