The Middle Ages evoke images of chivalrous knights, powerful kingdoms, fierce battles, and epic conquests. This era, marked by both romance and brutality, intrigue and triumphant victories, has long inspired game developers to craft immersive worlds where players can embody valiant warriors, rule vast empires, or navigate the complexities of diplomacy.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into 15 of the finest medieval-themed games that offer expansive battles, political machinations, state management, and the relentless struggle to survive in a bygone era. Prepare to don your armor and immerse yourself in a world where the sword and the crown reign supreme!
Table of Contents
- Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
- Medieval Dynasty
- Manor Lords
- Medieval II: Total War
- Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
- Stronghold Series
- Mount & Blade: Warband
- Bellwright
- Dragon Age: Inquisition
- Dragon’s Dogma 2
- A Plague Tale: Requiem
- Graveyard Keeper
- Foundation
- Banished
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Developer: Warhorse Studios
Download: Steam
For those seeking an authentic medieval experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II offers an intense journey into this gritty world. The protagonist has matured, becoming more formidable, yet the game retains its challenging nature. The combat system has been refined, now featuring four strike directions instead of five, requiring players to master new fighting techniques.
New features include a less user-friendly inventory, the ability to wear multiple outfits, and the opportunity to learn blacksmithing, craft potions, and forge weapons. The narrative is rich and engaging, though dialogue-heavy, which might deter some players. Nonetheless, it's highly recommended for those looking to experience the dark and brutal essence of the Middle Ages.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Release Date: May 18, 2015
Developer: CD PROJEKT RED
Download: Steam
No list of medieval-themed games would be complete without The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. As you search for Ciri, you'll find yourself entangled in romance, playing Gwent, and tackling a myriad of side quests that enrich the game's immersive atmosphere.
The game's appeal lies in its compelling world and dynamic gameplay, whether you're wielding a sword or casting spells. Your choices significantly impact the ending, so paying close attention to dialogues is crucial. Enhance your experience with mods for an even more profound journey. The crafting system, character progression, and medieval ambiance make this a quintessential RPG.
Medieval Dynasty
Release Date: September 23, 2023
Developer: Render Cube
Download: Steam
Ever dreamed of establishing your own medieval village? Medieval Dynasty lets you realize that dream by not only building but also developing your settlement. Attract new residents, expand your crafting capabilities, and engage in activities like hunting, cooking, and tailoring clothes for your community and trade.
Don't overlook personal life—marry and have a child who will eventually inherit your legacy. Other villagers will also start families, adding a realistic touch to the game. Time flies as you farm, complete quests, and manage your burgeoning settlement.
Manor Lords
Release Date: April 26, 2024
Developer: Slavic Magic
Download: Steam
Created by a single developer, Manor Lords became a sensation in 2024, thanks to its engaging gameplay and recent updates. Build and develop your settlement while engaging in territorial battles, adding a thrilling dimension to the game.
The game's graphics and character control enhance the immersive experience, making your ruler feel like a real person. However, maintaining a robust economy is essential, as poor management can end your game prematurely. Dive deeper into its mechanics here.
Medieval II: Total War
Release Date: November 15, 2006
Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY, Feral Interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux)
Download: Steam
This iconic series immerses you in the Middle Ages, where you manage a civilization, build cities, and command armies to conquer new lands and ensure prosperity. Choose from Western European or Middle Eastern factions, starting with one of five countries: Britain, Venice, the Holy Roman Empire, France, or Spain.
Engage in single-player campaigns or challenge friends in multiplayer mode. The game's dynamic terrain and weather systems add strategic depth, affecting battle outcomes.
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
Release Date: October 25, 2022
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam
Set 200 years before its predecessor, Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord enhances the combat system and expands the game world. Explore, conquer territories, and recruit warriors to build your army. Engage in realistic battles with hundreds of uniquely equipped units.
The game also features a robust multiplayer mode and an intricate economy. Trade goods like grain for profit, manage feudal economics, clear bandit-infested routes, and resell items to amass wealth.
Stronghold Series
Release Dates: 2001 to 2021
Developer: Firefly Studios
Download: Steam
In Stronghold, your reign depends on the love of your people. This series combines real-time strategy with city-building, where you construct and manage castles, defend against sieges, and expand your territory. Keep your economy strong and your citizens happy, all while watching for lurking wolves.
Beyond castle defense, you'll manage resources, produce weapons, and repel enemy assaults, ensuring your rule remains secure.
Mount & Blade: Warband
Release Date: March 31, 2010
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam
Returning to the Mount & Blade universe, Warband offers a realistic medieval setting with immersive environments. Become a kingdom's ruler, recruit knights, and manage lands. The refined combat system focuses on parrying and blocking, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.
Both Warband and Bannerlord share similar gameplay, making them excellent choices for medieval enthusiasts.
Bellwright
Release Date: April 23, 2024
Developer: Donkey Crew
Download: Steam
Bellwright places you in a world of uprisings and intrigue. After being falsely imprisoned, you must clear your name and lead a revolution against tyranny. Build and manage settlements, gather resources, and recruit villagers with unique skills to bolster your cause.
Strategic city management and military might are key to victory. Liberate villages, expand outposts, and train elite soldiers. Choose your weapons and armor, mastering various combat styles to ensure success.
Dragon Age: Inquisition
Release Date: November 18, 2014
Developer: BioWare
Download: EA
In Dragon Age: Inquisition, a cataclysm has thrown the world into chaos. As the Inquisitor, you must lead the Inquisition to restore order amidst dragons, mage-Templar conflicts, and national strife.
This classic RPG lets you level up your character, craft items, undertake quests, and explore a vast world. Side quests are crucial for strengthening the Inquisition's power.
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Capcom
Download: dragonsdogma.com
Set in a traditional medieval fantasy, Dragon’s Dogma 2 features brave heroes, potent magic, and mythical creatures. As the Arisen, chosen by an evil dragon, you embark on a quest to defeat the beast and reclaim your heart.
Explore a vast open world filled with enemy camps, hidden treasures, and enigmatic riddles. Grappling mechanics allow you to interact with the environment and enemies uniquely, while the pawn system lets you summon otherworldly companions to aid your journey.
A Plague Tale: Requiem
Release Date: October 17, 2022
Developer: Asobo Studio
Download: Steam
After defeating the Inquisitor, the protagonists flee south in A Plague Tale: Requiem. Hugo's mysterious illness persists, leading the family to seek alchemical help. When Hugo collapses and visions guide him to a healing lake, the journey becomes a desperate quest.
The game introduces expansive, detailed locations, though freedom is somewhat limited. Stealth is emphasized, with players learning to navigate enemy patrols and use the environment to their advantage.
Graveyard Keeper
Release Date: August 15, 2015
Developer: Lazy Bear Games
Download: Steam
In Graveyard Keeper, you play a modern man transported to the Middle Ages after a car accident. Your goal is to manage a graveyard, turning death into a profitable business. Despite the dark humor, the game weaves in a touching love story and poignant plot.
Foundation
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Developer: Polymorph Games
Download: Steam
Foundation is a city-building simulator set in medieval Europe. As a ruler, your task is to expand a small settlement into a thriving city, managing resources and constructing unique buildings. Learn about medieval architecture and societal dynamics, using "smart brushes" to build structures that meet environmental criteria.
Banished
Release Date: February 18, 2014
Developer: Shining Rock Software
Download: Steam
Closing our list, Banished is a city-building simulator with strategic elements set in the Middle Ages. The game's economy is based on barter, with each resource having a market value. Your primary resource is your people, whom you must keep alive and thriving.
With no tech trees or skill lines, you can build any structure you can afford. Residents can learn up to twenty professions, requiring strategic planning to meet the city's needs. Success hinges on your ability to foresee and manage challenges effectively.
This concludes our curated list of the 15 best medieval-themed games. Spanning various genres, these titles offer something for every medieval enthusiast. Dive into these worlds and experience the thrill of the Middle Ages!