Top 10 Mobile Strategy Games & How to Build One Like Them

According to Statista, the mobile gaming industry is projected to reach a staggering $163.98 billion in revenue by 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing and most lucrative segments in the entertainment industry.

In recent years, mobile strategy games have emerged as the major subset of this booming industry. The strategy game segment is valued at $18 billion in 2024, driven by its substantial traction among players, depth, engagement, and competitive landscape.

Market research in recent times shows that this segment will reach a value of $35 billion by 2033 with a compound annual growth rate of 7.8% between 2025 and 2033.

Mobile strategy games like Clash of Clans, Whiteout Survival, and Rise of Kingdoms have shown immense popularity, generating billions of dollars. These games demonstrate the sustained interest of players in tactical and strategic gameplay.

With the rise of cloud gaming, 5G connectivity, and more powerful mobile devices, developers are now seeking more sophisticated, high-fidelity mobile strategy game development that rivals that on PC and consoles.

Moreover, the integration of AI, multiplayer functionality, and real-time decision-making mechanics continues to reshape the genre, attracting both casual and hardcore gamers.

This makes 2025 an ideal time to explore the best mobile strategy games. Understand how to build a mobile strategy game, and keep an eye on the most anticipated upcoming releases in the space.

Let’s get started!

What is a Mobile Strategy Game?

A mobile strategy game is a genre of video game played on smartphones or tablets where players use tactical thinking, planning, and resource management to achieve victory. These games focus on decision-making and long-term planning and are very different from fast-paced action games.

In mobile RTS games, players often build bases, manage economies, command armies, or conquer territories. They’re turn-based or real-time, like XCOM: Enemy Within or Clash of Clans, depending on how the gameplay unfolds.

Clash Royale, for example, is one of the most popular games that combines real-time battles with card-based mechanics. On the other hand, Rise of Kingdoms is a game where players build civilizations and engage in large-scale wars across a virtual world. Such games feature multiplayer modes, alliances, in-game events, and numerous other elements to keep players engaged.

Strategy or mobile empire-building games offer a mix of thoughtful gameplay and accessible controls, which helps pull in both casual and competitive players. These games provide long-term value and replayability due to their regular updates, varying strategies, and social features.

When you play strategy games, they will offer you engaging and on-the-go mental challenges, whether you play to lead an army to victory or manage a futuristic city.

6 Steps to Choose the Best Mobile Strategy Games

No doubt, strategy games for mobiles have been showing immense popularity, with over 1.5 billion downloads in this genre in 2024 alone. Finding the right strategy game can transform your gaming experience, whether you’re into turn-based planning or real-time battles. Here are the steps to choose the best strategy game as per your play style:

1 Identify Your Preferred Strategy Type

The initial step is to determine what kind of strategic challenge you enjoy, such as turn-based tactics, empire building, or real-time strategy. It is crucial to know your preferences, as they narrow down your options.

According to a survey, 43% of mobile gamers prefer mobile turn-based strategy games due to their thorough pacing, making this one of the most popular strategy types. On the other hand, real-time strategy attracts those who enjoy making decisions quickly under pressure.

2 Check Game Reviews and Ratings

Can you play a game without looking at its ratings and reviews on Google Play or the App Store? Of course, you can’t. Reviews and ratings are one of the most important indicators of a game’s quality and longevity. Look for consistent positive feedback regarding game balance, updates, technical stability, and offerings.

App Annie, a platform that tracks app performance, stated that games with a rating above 4.3 stars retain 25% more players over six months compared to lower-rated games. This, of course, shows the importance of user satisfaction.

3 Evaluate Game Mechanics and Features

Evaluating game mechanics and features is a crucial step in selecting the best strategy games. Explore how the game functions, including:

• Combat systems
• Multiplayer options
• Unique twists and turns
• Resource management

Remember, a deep and intuitive mechanic often keeps players engaged longer. Let’s understand this with an example: games with asynchronous multiplayer modes see 30% higher daily engagement because they allow players to play at their own pace without waiting on others.

4 Assess In-App Purchases and Monetization

One of the crucial steps is assessing in-app purchases and monetization. Understand how the game monetizes, whether it's pay-to-win, ad-supported, or offers fair microtransactions.

The lack of balance in monetization may disrupt enjoyment. Recent analysis has shown that 62% of those who use strategy games, who deem pay-to-win games, drop them. It is critical to develop strategy games that provide progress based on skill, rather than on the amount of money spent.

5 Consider Graphics and User Interface

Graphics and user interface are crucial factors in determining the success or failure of a game. Games' visual appeal and intuitive interface enhance the overall gaming experience. Indeed, a clean UI and immersive graphics help with longer play sessions and reduced frustration.

Recent studies have shown that games with excellent user interface and game design keep players interested for 40% longer. This demonstrates the importance of UI and graphic usability in achieving game success.

6 Test the Game Yourself

The last step is, of course, none other than testing the game by yourself. No matter how engaging and good a game seems, you can’t judge it properly if it's fit for your interests without playing by yourself.

Play some levels just to see how the game flows, how challenging it is, and how much fun it is. Most leading games now include tutorial programs or test runs, making it easier for novice players. Sensor Tower records that 54% of mobile gamers abandon the game during the first hour; thus, a first impression really counts.

Also Read: Top 5 Awesome Mobile Game Development Tools for 2025

Top 10 Mobile Strategy Games of 2025

There are countless strategy games in the world; however, some stand out as market dominators. Here is the list of top mobile strategy games of 2025 based on popularity, downloads, and reviews.

There is nothing wrong with saying that mobile target games continue to dominate in 2025 because they blend tactical depth with fast-paced action and long-term planning. The games listed below offer lasting appeal and addictive gameplay, leading players to spend an average of 4.2 hours per week.

Let’s start with the iconic strategy game “Clash of Clans.”

1 Clash of Clans

Clash of Clans is one of the best mobile RTS games of all time, having taken over the world since its release in 2012, with more than 600 million downloads recorded by the publisher. Created by Supercell, the game remains popular worldwide among its audience due to its vibrant mix, with a focus on both base construction and battle tactics.

Downloads: 500 million+

Android Review: 61 million+

iOS Review: 2.6 million+

Developer/publisher: Supercell

Revenue: $335 million in 2024 and has generated over $7 billion since its launch.

Platforms: iOS and Android

Release Date: August 2, 2012 (iOS), October 7, 2013 (Android)

Gameplay: People construct and enhance their village, train their forces, and attack the villages of other players. Clan-based multiplayer features and the option of Clan Wars and Clan Capital make social interaction more advanced.

Highlights: Regular seasonal updates, including the 2025 "Dark Days" event, introduce new content and challenges. Collaborations with WWE stars like Cody Rhodes and Rhea Ripley have brought fresh in-game content.

Why It Stands Out: Clash of Clans is one such game, as it continues to rank among the highest revenue-generating mobile games to date, having generated over seven billion dollars in revenue since its release.

2 Clash Royale

We’re talking about the best mobile strategy games, so how can we miss out on Clash Royale? Of course, we can’t. Published by Supercell, Clash Royale engages mobile gamers worldwide by blending elements of collectible card games, tower defense, and multiplayer battle arena genres. The game has amassed over 500 million downloads across Android and iOS platforms, making it one of the best games in the mobile gaming industry.

Downloads: 500 million+

Android Review: 38 million+

iOS Review: 2.9 million+

Developer/publisher: Supercell

Revenue: $4 billion+ since its launch

Platforms: iOS, Android

Release Date: March 2, 2016

Gameplay: Players engage in real-time 1v1 battles using decks of cards representing troops, spells, and buildings. The objective is to destroy the opponent's towers while defending one's own.

Highlights: This mobile game features various arenas, tournaments, and seasonal events, keeping the gameplay fresh and competitive.

Why It Stands Out: Clash Royale combines strategic depth with accessible gameplay, offering quick matches and a dynamic progression system. Its integration with Clash of Clans characters and mechanics provides a familiar yet distinct experience for players.

3 Lords Mobile

IGG’s (I Got Games) Lords Mobile is a titan in the mobile strategy gaming world. The game has attracted a massive global audience due to its combination of real-time strategy, city-building mechanics, and role-playing elements. Lords Mobile is also known for its large-scale battles and hero-based gameplay, offering a rich experience for both competitive and casual players.

Downloads: 500 million+

Android Review: 9 million+

iOS Review: 142k+

Developer/publisher: IGG (I Got Games)

Revenue: 3 billion+ since its launch

Platforms: iOS and Android

Release Date: March 31, 2016

Gameplay: Players build and upgrade their kingdoms, recruit and train heroes, and engage in real-time PvP battles. It allows players to join guilds and participate in massive guild wars.

Highlights: It features a diverse range of game modes, including hero stages, colosseum, labyrinth, and special event dungeons. The game also hosts regular collaborations, such as those with popular anime or movie franchises.

Why It Stands Out: Lords Mobile stands out because of its fusion of genres and engaging multiplayer interactions. Its large-scale battles, hero-driven mechanics, and consistent updates also help to solidify its place among top-grossing strategy games.

4 Rise of Kingdoms

Developed and published by Lilith Games, Rise of Kingdoms is one of the best strategy games on Android. Since its launch in 2018, this game has garnered a massive following, which offers players the chance to engage in real-time battles, form alliances, or expand their civilizations. Rise of Kingdoms is popular among gamers because of its depth of gameplay and strong community features.

Downloads: 100 million+

Android Review: 2.4 million

iOS Review: 179k+

Developer/publisher: Lilith Games

Revenue: Over $3.3 billion since its launch

Platforms: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS

Release Date: May 24, 2018

Gameplay: Rise of Kingdoms’ players choose from a variety of real-world historical civilizations, each with unique strategic benefits. It features resource management, real-time combat, city building, and more.

Highlights: Multiple civilizations, real-time combat, an alliance system, and frequent updates are some of the biggest highlights of this game.

Why It Stands Out: This game is successful due to its extensive offerings, including an expansive world, deep strategic elements, and regular updates. Its commander system allows players to customize their armies and strategies.

5 Last War: Survival Game

Last War: Survival Game is one of the few strategic games that have gained a large player base quickly after its release in August 2023. It is listed among the top 5 highest-grossing games of 2024 due to its hybrid 4X strategy. This game combines base building, real-time combat, hero management, post-apocalyptic, and more.

Downloads: 60 million+

Android Review: 1.2 million+

iOS Review: 271k+

Developer/publisher: First Fun/FUNFLY PTE. LTD.

Revenue: $2 billion+ since its launch (Within 2 years)

Platforms: iOS and Android

Release Date: June 2, 2023

Gameplay: Players manage a post-apocalyptic base, gather resources, and recruit heroes across three military branches. The game combines traditional 4X strategy elements with casual "Frontline Breakthrough" mini-games.

Highlights: Hybrid gameplay, the hero system, alliance warfare, and seasonal events are among the game's most notable features.

Why It Stands Out: Last War Survival Game stands out in today’s highly competitive gaming industry because it has redefined the 4X genre by integrating casual gameplay elements, attracting a broader audience. Also, its innovative marketing strategies and collaboration led to game success.

Also Read: Pokemon Go Success Story!

6 Honor of Kings

Honor of Kings is a multiplayer online battle arena game that is also considered one of the best mobile strategy games of all time, based on making money. This game is one of the most played MOBA games, with over 100 million daily active users. Honor of Kings engages 5v5 battles that allow players to choose powerful characters from Chinese mythological lore with unique skills.

Downloads: 50 million+

Android Review: 1.4 million+

iOS Review: 31k+

Developer/publisher: TiMi Studio Group/Tencent Games or Level Infinite

Revenue: Generated over $15 billion in China alone and $18 billion globally

Platforms: iOS, Android, HarmonyOS

Release Date: November 26, 2015 (China) and October 2016 globally

Gameplay: Honor of Kings engages in a 5v5 battle that allows players to choose powerful characters inspired by Chinese legends. This game’s objective is to destroy the enemy’s base while defending one’s own.

Highlights: Strategic gameplay, cultural depth, global expansion, high-quality graphics, and immersive sound design.

Why It Stands Out: It is one of the highest-grossing mobile games of all time, particularly in China, because of its deep integration of Chinese lore and engaging gameplay. This game's success led to expansion into comics and television services.

7 Whiteout Survival

Whiteout Survival is one of the top mobile strategy games centred on a frozen post-apocalyptic theme. This game tests your survival skills as you embark on a challenging mission and side quest to adapt to the aggressive environment. Released on February 12, 2023, Whiteout Survival challenges players to lead survivors through harsh blizzards, hostile wildlife, and other threats.

Downloads: 50 million+

Android Review: 1.2 million+

iOS Review: 310k+

Developer/publisher: Century Games

Revenue: Generated over $1.5 billion since its release

Platforms: iOS, Android

Release Date: February 12, 2023

Gameplay: Players manage a city of survivors, assigning them roles such as hunters, cooks, and woodcutters. The game features resource gathering, base building, and strategic battles against beasts and rival leaders.

Highlights: Role assignment, resource seizing, strategic combat, and an alliance system that allows players to collaborate are some of the game's best features.

Why It Stands Out: Whiteout Survival is one of the top mobile strategy games due to its unique 4X strategy gameplay, innovative user acquisition strategy, and robust social features.

8 The Battle of Polytopia

The Battle of Polytopia is one of the best mobile turn-based strategy games, developed by Midjiwan AB. The game is about controlling the map, fighting enemy tribes, or finding new lands. It features 16 unique tribes, each with distinct characteristics, and offers both single-player and multiplayer.

Downloads: 20 million+

Android Review: 232k+

iOS Review: 14k+

Developer/publisher: Midjiwan AB

Revenue: The revenue is not publicly disclosed; however, as of its downloads and active players, it has generated multi-million dollars.

Platforms: Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Mac operating systems

Release Date: February 9, 2016 (iOS); December 1, 2016 (Android); August 4, 2022 (Windows/macOS); October 13, 2022 (Nintendo Switch)

Gameplay: Players control one of several tribes, each with unique abilities, on a procedurally generated map. The objective is to expand your civilization by exploring, building, researching technologies, and engaging in combat with other tribes.

Highlights: This game offers various modes, including Perfection, Domination, and Creative, supports both single-player and multiplayer experiences, and features regular updates.

9 Warcraft Rumble

Launched in 2023, Warcraft Rumble is a popular free-to-play action strategy mobile game developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment. The game is set within a Warcraft universe where collectible miniatures come to life to clash in epic melee battles. Players can purchase units and levels using in-game coins.

Downloads: 5 million+

Android Review: 236k+

iOS Review: 45k

Developer/publisher: Blizzard Entertainment

Revenue: $64.2 million since its launch

Platforms: iOS, Android, GeForce Now

Release Date: November 3, 2023

Gameplay: It's a tower offense strategy game where players deploy collectible Warcraft-themed minis in fast-paced PvE and PvP battles across dynamic lanes to defeat enemy leaders.

Highlights: Features iconic Warcraft characters, strategic lane-based combat, customizable armies, co-op dungeons, guilds, and seasonal events, offering both casual fun and deep tactics for competitive players.

Why It Stands Out: Warcraft Rumble has become a popular strategic game among mobile gamers due to its engaging gameplay, strategic depth, and strong connection to the Warcraft universe.

10 Warhammer 40,000: Tacticus

Warhammer 40,000: Tacticus is a 2022 free-to-play turn-based tactical strategy game that was developed and published by Snowprint Studios. It's a hex-grid combat game based on the popular Warhammer 40,000 universe. This game features various game modes, including PvE, PvP, live events, and guild raids, where players collect and upgrade characters.

Downloads: 1 million+

Android Review: 106k+

iOS Review: 35k

Developer/publisher: Snowprint Studios

Revenue: Generated $30-$35 million in 2023 alone

Platforms: iOS, Android

Release Date: August 15, 2022

Gameplay: It's a turn-based strategy game on hex grid maps in which players build squads from Warhammer factions and tactically position units. Apart from that, players battle through PvE campaigns, real-time PvP, live events, and guild raids.

Highlights: Features iconic Warhammer 40K factions, strategic hex-based combat, real-time PvP, alliance raids, and regular content updates. Offers deep character progression through gear, leveling, and ability upgrades in richly themed missions.

Why It Stands Out: Tacticus is a successful mobile strategy game due to accessible and engaging gameplay, strong Warhammer 40,000 integration, favorable player experience, and good reviews.

As we’ve explored the 10 best mobile strategy games in 2025, now it's time to examine the ranking based on Android and iOS.

Top 10 Strategy Games for Android in 2025

Do you know there are over 3 billion active Android users worldwide, which is more than double the number of iOS users? Additionally, the Google Play Store offers more than 245,000 games for users. Android and iOS have numerous similar applications, including millions of games. However, they also offer different games tailored to their operating system and target market.

Let’s find out the best strategy games for Android:

Top 10 Strategy Games for iOS in 2025

Well, there are over 1.4 billion active iOS users worldwide, and the App Store has more than 2,06,990 apps. The App Store contains thousands of strategy games for players across the globe. Here is the list of the best mobile strategy games for iOS:

So there are indeed many new and highly anticipated strategic games for mobiles that are coming in 2025 and 2026. Let’s explore them.

Also Read: How to Create a Mobile Game App

Top 5 Upcoming Mobile Strategy Games List

Mobile strategy gaming is evolving rapidly, blending deep tactics with stunning visuals and cross-platform experiences. Here are five of the most anticipated mobile RTS games that will launch on Android and iOS in 2025:

1 Pokémon Champions

A fresh take on the Pokémon franchise, Pokémon Champions brings strategic team-based battles to mobile. Players can assemble powerful squads, train champions, and compete in real-time PvP tournaments. Expect polished visuals and high replay value.

2 Command & Conquer: Legions

This revival of the legendary franchise is designed for mobile with real-time PvP warfare and base management. Legions combine tactical depth with fast-paced skirmishes and iconic units from the classic C&C universe, reimagined for modern strategy fans.

3 Eclipse: Battle for Earth

Set in a near-future Earth, this sci-fi strategy game lets players command factions vying for planetary control. Eclipse focuses on large-scale battles, political alliances, and resource management in a beautifully rendered post-apocalyptic setting.

4 Rainbow Six Mobile

Ubisoft brings its tactical shooter to mobile with strategic team-based gameplay. Players must plan, breach, and secure objectives using a mix of operators with unique skills. It's a game of precision and tactics, optimized for mobile combat scenarios.

5 Arknights: Endfield

A spin-off of the popular Arknights, Endfield shifts the gameplay from tower defense to 3D real-time strategy. Set in a dystopian sci-fi world, it offers exploration, base building, and real-time tactical battles with stunning anime-style visuals.

Let’s explore the best upcoming strategy mobile games through this table:

Now, before wrapping up, it's essential to understand what makes a good mobile strategy game. Well, to answer that question, you must explore the mobile game development guide.

Also Read: Mobile Game App Development Cost: A Detailed Guide 2025!

5 Steps to Create a Mobile Strategy Game App

Creating top mobile strategy games in 2025 requires best game developers, blend of innovation, player-centric design, and strategic execution. Here’s a game development process every entrepreneur or developer should follow to bring a compelling game idea to life:

Core Gameplay and Mechanics

Build gameplay around meaningful choices, clear objectives, and rewarding feedback loops. Establish intuitive core mechanics such as resource management, unit deployment, or turn-based combat. Strike a balance between complexity and accessibility to attract a wider audience while maintaining depth that retains long-term players.

Strategic Depth and Decision Making

Design systems that encourage thoughtful decision-making and varied tactical approaches. Integrate mechanics like fog of war, terrain advantages, and tech trees to reward player foresight. Ensure strategies evolve over time, promoting adaptability and progression as players master the game’s nuances.

Engaging Player Experience

Create a seamless and immersive experience through polished UI/UX, rich visuals, and atmospheric sound. Include features like tutorials, achievements, and social interaction to boost engagement. Prioritize pacing, make early gameplay addictive while introducing advanced elements gradually to keep users invested.

Development and Testing

Utilize agile development cycles to rapidly prototype, test, and iterate. Conduct closed alpha and beta testing with real users to gather feedback on balance, bugs, and engagement. Utilize analytics tools to track player behavior and fine-tune mechanics based on data-driven insights.

Marketing and Launch

Develop a strong pre-launch campaign using teasers, influencer collaborations, and community-building platforms like Discord. Optimize your App Store presence with compelling visuals and ASO tactics. Post-launch, support the game with regular updates, events, and player communication to build loyalty and visibility.

Launch a Successful Strategy Game With Apptunix!

With over ten years of expertise in developing mobile game apps, Apptunix is a leading custom mobile game development company in the United States. Using cutting-edge technology and game developers, Apptunix is the ideal partner for strategic mobile game app development, like real-time tactical adventure “Lords Mobile” or the most popular mobile strategy games of all time, “Clash of Clans.”

Our expert game developers work closely with clients to bring complex game ideas to life. From concept to launch, we offer every service to build a mobile game strategy. We leverage cutting-edge game engines, scalable architectures, and immersive design to ensure your game not only functions flawlessly but also captivates players worldwide.

So what are you waiting for? Turn your strategic idea into a successful strategy game now. Partner with Apptunix and hire game developers to build the next big hit in the mobile gaming industry!