Top 7 Must-Play Grid-Based Tactical RPGs Ranked!

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Summary

  • RPGs like XCOM 2 incorporate grid-based combat with excellent animations.
  • Fire Emblem: Three Houses offers compelling narratives and a complex grid-based combat system.
  • Hard West and Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope provide unique grid-based gameplay experiences.

Role-Playing Games (RPGs) are renowned for their versatility, providing players with numerous choices in how they play the game, customize their characters’ appearance, clothing, and equipment, including weapons. Some tactical RPGs offer non-linear storylines, giving players freedom to decide their actions, while others follow a more conventional narrative path.

While some role-playing games with isometric views have tactical elements, not every tactical RPG adopts this style. This is often where confusion arises when discussing the grid-based system. Here are some top picks of grid-based tactical RPGs that stand out in the gaming world.

7. Hard West

An Interesting Take On The American Wild West

  • The game combines elements from the American Wild West and the supernatural
  • Tons of options for players to plan their strategies

Hard West is set in an imaginative depiction of the American Old West, featuring classic Western elements alongside supernatural twists to create an engaging gaming experience. Players can anticipate encountering typical Wild West scenarios like bank heists and the historic gold rush from the 19th century, but with unique spins that keep things intriguing.

As a gamer, I’ve found this game to be a strategic masterpiece, packed with countless choices that let me craft my own tactical approach. It’s clear to see why it’s often hailed as one of the top grid-based strategy games around.

6. Mario + Rabbids Sparks Of Hope

Colorful And Entertaining Grid-Based Gameplay

  • Two popular franchises merge
  • Players can build their roster with considerable freedom

After all these years, it’s clear that any game starring Mario is bound to be a hit, and that’s definitely true for Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. As you progress through the game, you get to assemble your team, featuring characters like Princess Peach, Luigi, Mario, and several Rabbid versions too. It’s amazing how these two distinct worlds blend so seamlessly, creating a real work of art.

This strategic game offers an engaging, vibrant, and grid-structured setup that promises endless enjoyable playtime for players.

5. Valkyria Chronicles

A Military Game That Is Inspired By World War 2 Europe

  • Set in Europa, a fictional version of real-life Europe
  • Two major factions in the game

Similar to other entries on this list, Valkyria Chronicles is categorized as a Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG), rather than a traditional RPG. Although some may question the distinction between these two genres, they do possess unique aspects that set them apart.

2008 saw the release of this title, which is set in a fictional land called Europa, reminiscent of real-life Europe during World War II periods. In this game, players are tasked with strategically planning their military moves to secure victory on the battlefield and become the dominant force in the region. The unique mechanics of Valkyria Chronicles place it among the top grid-based JRPGs available today.

4. Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together

A Great Title That Helped Kickstart A Franchise

  • The game is set in the nation of Valeria
  • Different classes for players to use

For nearly three decades, the Tactics Ogre series has been a mainstay, with its origins tracing back to the classic Ogre Battle game and specifically the “Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together.” In this game, players assume the character of Denim Powell, who finds himself in the turmoil of war within the peaceful nation of Valeria.

In the strategy game Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, the battle mechanics are top-notch, providing a remarkable playing experience that’s enhanced by the diverse array of character classes.

3. Crypt Of The NecroDancer

A Rhythmical Experience That’s Great Fun

  • Rhythm-based game mechanics
  • The better players stick to the rhythm, the better the outcome

Crypt of the NecroDancer” is a unique game, offering an engaging yet specialized experience for some gamers but not everyone. The twist here is that instead of conventional controls, players must synchronize their character’s movements and attacks with the beat of the music playing in the background as they progress through the game.

For optimal performance, keep in sync with the game’s rhythm to make your attacks more effective, making it seem effortless to overcome opponents. This game, in particular, is heavily dependent on a grid-based system due to the importance of the rhythm elements it incorporates.

2. XCOM 2

Great Combat System And Outstanding Animations

  • The XCOM franchise is almost 3 decades old
  • The animations for combat are well-crafted

The XCOM series is quite old in its gaming category, with its first game debuting way back in 1994. A full 22 years later, XCOM 2 was finally released in 2016. Similar to other games in this franchise, XCOM 2 heavily utilizes a grid system during combat and boasts impressive animations that really draw you into the gameplay.

Individuals who have finished the game and seek something new and distinct could consider experimenting with some top-notch modifications available.

1. Fire Emblem: Three Houses

Compelling Narrative And A Complex Grid-Based Combat System

  • Players can choose their characters’ classes
  • Excellent grid-based combat system

As a gamer, I’m immersed in the world of Fire Emblem: Three Houses, where I step into the shoes of Byleth – a former mercenary now turned professor at a renowned Military Academy. Here, I guide my students through challenging lessons and strategic battles, shaping their futures while navigating an intriguing narrative.

Beyond just offering the ability for players to switch their characters’ classes and clothing options, this game boasts an extensive and captivating grid-based battle system that never fails to entertain. While some aspects might not make it to the next version according to many gamers, in essence, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is a fantastic expansion of its universe.

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2025-02-22 03:56