Journey back in time to an era of chivalry, conquest, and intrigue: the Middle Ages. A period brimming with both brutal warfare and romantic tales, this setting has captivated game developers for decades, offering players the chance to embody brave warriors, cunning diplomats, or powerful rulers. This article explores fifteen of the best medieval-themed games, encompassing epic battles, political maneuvering, kingdom management, and the challenges of survival in a harsh historical landscape. Prepare to don your armor and plunge into a world ruled by sword and crown!
Table of Contents
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Developer: Warhorse Studios
Download: Steam
For a hardcore medieval experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II delivers unforgettable hours in a brutal world. Our protagonist is older and stronger, but have you grown since the first game? The challenging gameplay remains, though the combat system has been refined from five to four strike directions. Mastering combat is still essential.
New features include a less-than-convenient inventory, the ability to wear multiple outfits, blacksmithing, potion and weapon crafting, and more. The compelling storyline might deter those who dislike extensive dialogue, but it’s a rewarding journey into the dark heart of the Middle Ages.
Release Date: May 18, 2015
Developer: CD PROJEKT RED
Download: Steam
No list of medieval-themed games is complete without this legendary title. Embark on Geralt's quest to find Ciri, punctuated by romance, Gwent, countless side quests, and captivating atmosphere. Whether wielding a sword or wielding magic, players will find themselves thoroughly engrossed. Your choices shape the ending, so pay close attention to dialogue. Consider enhancing your experience with mods.
The crafting, character progression, and extensive quest system make this a classic RPG. Though fantasy-based, the medieval setting is impeccably rendered.
Release Date: September 23, 2023
Developer: Render Cube
Download: Steam
Always dreamed of building your own medieval village? In Medieval Dynasty, you'll not only construct a village but nurture its growth by attracting new residents and expanding your crafting capabilities. Villagers can hunt, cook, sew, and contribute to the settlement's economy.
Personal life plays a role; marriage, childbirth, and raising a family are all part of the experience. Children of both the main character and other villagers will grow over several in-game years. Farming, questing, hunting, and settlement management keep time flying.
Release Date: April 26, 2024
Developer: Slavic Magic
Download: Steam
Another compelling settlement-building game, Manor Lords, a one-person project, gained immense popularity in 2024. Recent updates have been well-received.
Here, village construction is interwoven with territorial conquest and defense, adding a layer of excitement. The game shines with its graphics and the ability to directly control your ruler, making exploration more engaging. Careful economic management is crucial for success.
Release Date: November 15, 2006
Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY, Feral Interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux)
Download: Steam
This renowned series transports players to the Middle Ages, where managing populations, building cities, and raising armies are essential for territorial expansion and national prosperity.
Choose from Western European and Middle Eastern factions. The seventeen available factions are not all immediately accessible; beginners should select from Britain, Venice, the Holy Roman Empire, France, or Spain. Enjoy single-player campaigns or join friends in multiplayer mode. Dynamic weather and terrain add depth to battles.
Release Date: October 25, 2022
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is an RPG with a focus on medieval warfare, set 200 years before the original. Enjoy improved combat and an expanded game world.
Conquer territories, recruit warriors, and lead troops in realistic battles. Hundreds of unique units with various classes and equipment await. A multiplayer mode offers fierce battles against other players. Economic management is key; control trade routes and monitor market fluctuations for profit.
Release Dates: 2001 to 2021
Developer: Firefly Studios
Download: Steam
Stronghold is a real-time strategy game and city-building simulator. Build, finance, and defend your castle while conquering new lands. Manage resources, keep your citizens happy, and repel enemy attacks. Watch out for wolves!
Release Date: March 31, 2010
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam
Mount & Blade: Warband, a predecessor to Bannerlord, offers a realistic medieval setting. Build your kingdom, recruit knights, and manage your lands. The combat system emphasizes parrying and blocking. Both Warband and Bannerlord share similar concepts and gameplay.
Release Date: April 23, 2024
Developer: Donkey Crew
Download: Steam
In Bellwright, players are wrongfully imprisoned and must clear their name while leading a revolution against a tyrant. Build settlements, gather resources, and recruit villagers with unique skills. Strategic city management and military might are both crucial for victory.
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Developer: BioWare
Download: [ttpp]
A cataclysm has plunged the land into chaos. As the Inquisitor, lead the Inquisition, restore order, and confront powerful forces. This classic RPG features character progression, crafting, quests, and exploration. Don't neglect side quests to strengthen your power.
Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Capcom
Download: dragonsdogma.com
A traditional medieval fantasy with heroes, magic, and creatures from various mythologies. Defeat a dragon and reclaim your stolen heart on a perilous journey. The vast open world is four times larger than the first game. Grappling and a unique companion system featuring "pawns" add to the gameplay.
Release Date: October 17, 2022
Developer: Asobo Studio
Download: Steam
Siblings Amicia and Hugo flee south, seeking a cure for Hugo's illness. Stealth is a key mechanic, requiring players to memorize enemy patterns and navigate environments carefully. The sequel features more open areas than its predecessor.
Release Date: August 15, 2015
Developer: Lazy Bear Games
Download: Steam
Manage a graveyard and make money, in this humorous economic simulator. Despite the morbid premise, the game features a touching storyline and a love story.
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Developer: Polymorph Games
Download: Steam
This city-building simulator lets you construct a medieval settlement, manage resources, and keep your citizens happy. "Smart brushes" help with construction, allowing for efficient resource management.
Release Date: February 18, 2014
Developer: Shining Rock Software
Download: Steam
A city-building simulator with strategy elements, focusing on resource management and the development of a medieval society. The economy is based on bartering; prevent your population from starving or succumbing to despair. Residents can learn up to twenty professions.
This concludes our exploration of fifteen exceptional medieval-themed games. With a diverse range of genres represented, we hope you’ve discovered a title that sparks your interest!