Xbox Game Pass: Must-Play Strategy Games in January 2025

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• Top Xbox Game Pass Strategy Games

  • Aliens: Dark Descent
  • Age of Empires 4: Anniversary Edition
  • Age of Mythology: Retold
  • Halo Wars
  • Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
  • Wartales
  • Metal Slug Tactics
  • Dungeons 4
  • Humankind
  • Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
  • Slay the Spire
  • Wildfrost
  • Stellaris
  • Gears Tactics
  • Crusader Kings III
  • Minecraft Legends

• Top PC Game Pass Strategy Games

  • StarCraft Remastered & StarCraft II
  • Frostpunk II
  • Against the Storm
  • Rise of Nations: Extended Edition
  • Dungeon Keeper II
  • Command & Conquer Remastered Collection

The console market once lacked substantial strategy game offerings, with notable exceptions and unsuccessful attempts (like StarCraft's clumsy debut on the Nintendo 64). However, numerous titles have since emerged, bringing strategic gameplay to living room consoles, particularly on Xbox.

Xbox Game Pass offers a compelling collection for aspiring armchair commanders. Whether your preference lies in managing vast galactic empires or directing quirky invertebrates in bomb-slinging escapades, Game Pass caters to diverse strategic tastes.

Tactical games, while technically a distinct genre, are included due to their strategic similarities.

Updated January 5, 2025 by Mark Sammut: The new year brings anticipation. Looking ahead to 2025, Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass appears poised for continued success, building on a strong 2024 finish. While often overlooked, new strategy games are slated for the service, with several confirmed additions. Commandos: Origins and Football Manager 25 are likely to resonate with fans, particularly the former. Meanwhile, subscribers can explore a strategy game added in December 2024. See below for details.

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• Wildfrost

Aliens: Dark Descent

A High-Pressure Tactical Game Perfect for Franchise Fans