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 years, offering players the chance to embody valiant knights, shrewd rulers, or cunning diplomats. This article showcases 15 of the best medieval-themed games, encompassing epic battles, political maneuvering, kingdom management, and the struggle for survival in a harsh, historical world. Prepare to don your armor and delve into an age defined by steel and crown!

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 a hardcore medieval experience, Kingdom Come: Deliverance II offers an unforgettable journey. The protagonist is older and stronger, but have you grown since the first game? The challenge remains intense, with a slightly revised combat system (four strike directions instead of five), demanding skill and mastery. New features include a less-than-convenient inventory, the ability to wear multiple outfits, and expanded crafting options for blacksmithing and potion-making. While the story is compelling, the abundance of dialogue might deter some players. However, it’s highly recommended for a deep dive into the brutal realities of the medieval era.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Release Date: May 18, 2015
Developer: CD PROJEKT RED
Download: Steam

This legendary Witcher saga deserves a place on any best-of list. Geralt’s quest to find Ciri is interwoven with romance, Gwent, countless side quests, and opportunities to help those in need. The game’s immersive atmosphere keeps players engaged, whether wielding swords or casting spells. Choices significantly impact the ending, so pay close attention to dialogue. For an enhanced experience, explore the many available mods. The crafting system, character progression, and expansive quest lines make this a classic RPG with a wonderfully realized medieval fantasy setting.

Medieval Dynasty

Release Date: September 23, 2023
Developer: Render Cube
Download: Steam

Ever dreamed of building your own medieval village? In Medieval Dynasty, you'll not only construct a settlement but also cultivate it, attracting new residents and expanding your crafting capabilities. Villagers can hunt, cook, and sew, contributing to the settlement's economy and providing goods for trade. The game also incorporates personal life; marriage, children, and the development of a family legacy are all part of the experience. Farming, questing, hunting, and village management blend together in a captivating gameplay loop.

Manor Lords

Release Date: April 26, 2024
Developer: Slavic Magic
Download: Steam

Another village-building and management game, Manor Lords, developed by a single person, gained immense popularity in 2024. A recent update enhanced the experience significantly. Beyond construction, players engage in territorial battles, adding a layer of strategic combat to the gameplay. The game's impressive graphics and the ability to directly control your ruler, making him feel like a real presence within the game world, are standout features. Careful economic management is crucial for success.

Medieval II: Total War

Release Date: November 15, 2006
Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY, Feral Interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux)
Download: Steam

This renowned strategy game series plunges players into the medieval world, tasking them with managing populations, building cities, and raising armies to conquer new territories and ensure their state's prosperity. Choose from various Western European and Middle Eastern factions, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. Engage in single-player campaigns or test your skills against others in multiplayer mode. Dynamic weather and terrain effects add an extra layer of challenge and excitement to battles.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

Release Date: October 25, 2022
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord is an RPG featuring medieval warfare, set 200 years before the first game. The sequel boasts an improved combat system and a vast, expanded game world. Explore, conquer territories, recruit warriors, and lead your troops in realistic battles. Hundreds of units with unique classes and customizable equipment provide strategic depth. A multiplayer mode allows for intense player-versus-player battles. A strong economy is essential for success; managing trade routes and resources is as important as military prowess.

Stronghold Series

Release Dates: 2001 to 2021
Developer: Firefly Studios
Download: Steam

The Stronghold series combines real-time strategy with city-building simulation. Players construct, finance, defend, and expand their castles. Careful management of resources, defensive structures, and citizen happiness is vital. Repel enemy sieges, manage production, and ensure your kingdom thrives. Even wolves pose a threat, highlighting the constant challenges of medieval rule.

Mount & Blade: Warband

Release Date: March 31, 2010
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Download: Steam

Mount & Blade: Warband, a predecessor to Bannerlord, offers a realistic medieval setting and immersive environments. Despite its 2010 release, it remains a captivating experience. Become a kingdom ruler, recruit knights, and grant them land. The combat system emphasizes parrying and blocking, demanding tactical skill. The core gameplay loop shares similarities with Bannerlord but with a distinct charm.

Bellwright

Release Date: April 23, 2024
Developer: Donkey Crew
Download: Steam

Bellwright casts players as a wrongly imprisoned individual, tasked with clearing their name and leading a revolution against a tyrannical ruler. Build and manage settlements, gather resources, and recruit villagers, each possessing unique skills that enhance your uprising. Strategic city management is as crucial as military might. Liberate villages, expand outposts, train elite soldiers, and master various combat styles.

Dragon Age: Inquisition

Release Date: November 18, 2014
Developer: BioWare
Download: [ttpp]

A cataclysm has plunged the land into chaos. Dragons terrorize kingdoms, and mages clash with Templars. As the Inquisitor, lead the Inquisition, restore order, and combat the forces of chaos. This classic RPG features character progression, crafting, quests, and exploration. Completing side quests strengthens the Inquisition and unlocks further opportunities.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Release Date: March 22, 2024
Developer: Capcom
Download: dragonsdogma.com

A traditional medieval fantasy, Dragon’s Dogma 2 features brave heroes, powerful magic, and mythical creatures. Become the Arisen, chosen by a dragon, embarking on a perilous journey to reclaim your heart and save the world. Explore a vast open world, four times larger than its predecessor, filled with points of interest, treasures, and challenges. Unique gameplay mechanics include grappling and a companion system using "pawns" from another realm.

A Plague Tale: Requiem

Release Date: October 17, 2022
Developer: Asobo Studio
Download: Steam

Following the events of the first game, Amicia and Hugo flee south, seeking a cure for Hugo’s illness. Stealth is a key element, requiring players to carefully navigate enemy patrols and utilize their surroundings. The sequel features larger, more open environments, although the sense of freedom is somewhat illusory due to the emphasis on stealth.

Graveyard Keeper

Release Date: August 15, 2015
Developer: Lazy Bear Games
Download: Steam

As a graveyard keeper in the Middle Ages, your goal is to bury the dead and make a profit. This economic simulator features a blend of dark humor and a surprisingly poignant storyline.

Foundation

Release Date: January 31, 2025
Developer: Polymorph Games
Download: Steam

This city-building simulator lets you construct a medieval settlement, manage resources, and ensure the well-being of your citizens. "Smart brushes" aid in construction, allowing for efficient resource management and visually appealing settlements.

Banished

Release Date: February 18, 2014
Developer: Shining Rock Software
Download: Steam

A city-building simulator with strategy elements, Banished focuses on resource management and the development of an isolated medieval society. The economy is based on bartering, and careful planning is crucial for survival and expansion. Residents can learn various professions, adding depth to the management challenges.

This diverse selection of games offers something for every medieval enthusiast. Whether you prefer grand strategy, RPG adventures, or city-building simulations, there's a title here waiting to transport you to a bygone era.