From gripping and beautiful indie titles to a return to form of some of the most prolific developers of the genres, there have been a great many strategy and tactics games this year. I do not claim to have played them all,

Sometimes twitchy video game genres, such as fighting games and shmups, don't provide the kind of challenge you crave. Fast-paced, action-focused titles have their place, but now and then you need the exhilaration and accomplishment that comes from conquering foes with impeccable planning. That's when strategy and tactics games prove appealing.

Whether you're a fan of RPGs like Metaphor: ReFantazio and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, looking to dive into something with a little more action like Helldivers 2 or Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, or prefer something more chill like Balatro or Astro Bot,