Some people with an interest in historical wars and armored fighting vehicles like tanks explore their passion further through a war gaming experience. We’ve been exposed to some epic titles from this specific genre, with war gamers everywhere having some iconic releases to sample in 2026.
These battle-filled masterpieces aren’t for everyone, though, but they’ll more than suffice for people with a clear fascination with military history. Alongside tackling DraftKings casino online releases like Double Top Dollar and multiplayer gems like Split Fiction, war games have always drawn gamers in. They’re not just entertaining; they can also carry hard-hitting messages, given their real-life aspect. Additionally, some games have vibrant communities attached, while others come with intense strategic challenges.
With war gamers being treated to some truly iconic war games over the years, below we highlight some of the very best installments. Have you played them before?
Combat Mission series
Starting proceedings off with a series many gamers from this particular category regard as one of the best ever, the Combat Mission games are generally hard to fault. When it comes to tactical elements, nothing really touches them. Likewise, they’re realistic, the detail on show is unrivaled, and they contain battle-based scenarios in a variety of wars. A series of games that war gamers simply have to session if they’re yet to do so, the Combat Mission series is superb.
Command: Modern Operations
With ground, sea and air operations to experience, Command: Modern Operations does a remarkable job of showcasing the complexities associated with modern warfare. For gamers wanting to explore warfare beyond World War I and World War II, this top title is worth exploring. In fact, its so authentic that even the United States Army uses it.
Armored Brigade
There have been some truly unforgettable real-time tactical warfare releases to get stuck into throughout the history of this enticing gaming category, though few have replicated the success Armored Brigade achieved. This much-loved title features tense clashes across Europe, with tactics to consider, infantry to coordinate, air attacks to manage, and much more. A game that offers an impressively realistic battling format for gamers to session, Armored Brigade simply had to make the list.
Hearts of Iron IV
Released in 2016 and still being played today through platforms like Steam, Hearts of Iron IV is a grand strategy release where players lead a nation into battle. With victories to achieve and strategic elements to nail, the pressure is on players from the very beginning in this top-notch battling title. Taking place during World War II, the engaging conflicts you can both oversee and overcome are well worth experiencing in Hearts of Iron IV.
Field of Glory 2: Medieval
On the other end of the scale to aforementioned options like Command: Modern Operations, Field of Glory 2: Medieval shines a light on the medieval genre. In this one, players can throw themselves into memorable medieval clash simulations, with huge collections of weapons to deploy and so much more. A title many war gamers endorse, Field of Glory 2: Medieval is brilliant.
Other favorites
While the aforementioned options are some of the most beloved war games of all time, the options don’t end there, given the popularity of this top genre. For example, some diehard war gamers would argue Ultimate General: Civil War should be included, given its tactical realism, while others would say Arma Reforger Cold War’s military sandbox aspect makes it a viable option. Alongside these other standout releases, Battles of Normandy, War in the East 2, and Graviteam Tactics: Mius Front also deserve recognition.