When it comes to grand strategy and immersive battles, few franchises are as iconic as Total War. Combining turn-based empire management with real-time tactical warfare, the series has captivated millions of players for over two decades. But with so many titles spanning different eras and playstyles, newcomers often wonder which entries are the best. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide with total war games ranked from fan-favorites to more niche experiences.
Whether you’re a veteran general or someone considering their first step into the battlefield, this ranking will help you decide where to start.
Why Rank Total War Games?
Over the years, Total War has covered history from feudal Japan to the Roman Empire, and even ventured into fantasy with Warhammer. Each game brings something unique—different mechanics, visuals, or campaigns. Ranking them gives perspective on which titles have stood the test of time and which ones might only appeal to dedicated fans.
By looking at gameplay depth, replayability, community support, and innovation, we can put together a list of total war games ranked fairly for all types of players.
The Top Total War Games Ranked
Let’s dive into the most notable entries in the franchise, starting from the strongest.
1. Total War: Shogun 2
Often considered the gold standard, Shogun 2 excels in both design and atmosphere. Set in 16th-century Japan, it blends beautiful aesthetics with polished gameplay. Its streamlined mechanics make it accessible, while still offering deep strategic layers. Many fans put it at the top when discussing total war games ranked.
2. Total War: Warhammer II
This fantasy entry broke new ground by combining the Total War formula with the rich lore of Warhammer. Each faction feels distinct, battles are epic, and the Mortal Empires campaign adds limitless replay value. It’s a must-play for anyone curious about the fantasy side of strategy gaming.
3. Total War: Rome II (Post-Patches)
At launch, Rome II was criticized for bugs and performance issues. However, after years of updates, it has become one of the most content-rich and expansive games in the series. Managing the Roman Empire and clashing with massive armies remains one of the best experiences in total war games ranked lists.
4. Total War: Medieval II
A classic that still holds up today, Medieval II is beloved for its modding community and detailed campaigns. From the Crusades to European dominance, it offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. Many fans still replay it over modern entries.
5. Total War: Three Kingdoms
Released in 2019, this game takes players to ancient China during the famous Three Kingdoms era. It innovated with character-driven gameplay, diplomacy mechanics, and stunning visuals. Its unique focus on relationships between generals made it a standout.
6. Total War: Attila
Known for its darker tone and survival-focused mechanics, Attila challenges players to manage collapsing empires and the threat of the Huns. While not as popular as some entries, it provides a refreshing twist for fans who enjoy difficulty and realism in total war games ranked.
7. Total War: Napoleon
This installment shines for its focused campaign on the Napoleonic wars. With detailed battle mechanics and a narrative-driven campaign, it’s perfect for history buffs. Though smaller in scope, it remains highly respected among players.
8. Total War: Empire
Set during the age of sail and colonial expansion, Empire introduced naval battles, global trade, and sprawling maps. While the mechanics were ambitious, technical issues held it back slightly. Still, it earns a spot in most lists of total war games ranked because of its innovative spirit.
9. Total War: Warhammer III
As the latest in the fantasy trilogy, Warhammer III offers massive scope and beautiful visuals. However, it launched with balance issues, making it less beloved than its predecessor. With updates and the Immortal Empires campaign, it’s steadily improving.
10. Total War: Shogun (2000)
The original title that started it all, Shogun set the blueprint for the franchise. While outdated today, it deserves recognition as the foundation of everything that came after.
Factors Considered in Ranking
When putting together this list of total war games ranked, several factors were considered:
Gameplay Mechanics: How polished and engaging the systems are.
Replay Value: Whether the game keeps players coming back.
Historical/Fantasy Immersion: How well the setting is brought to life.
Community & Modding: The strength of mods and player support.
Longevity: Whether the game still holds up years after release.
Which Total War Game Should You Start With?
If you’re new to the series, the ranking helps you choose based on your interests:
For a classic historical experience, start with Shogun 2 or Medieval II.
For fantasy fans, Warhammer II offers unparalleled variety.
For modern graphics and systems, Three Kingdoms is an excellent entry point.
If you love the Roman Empire, Rome II (with updates) remains a top choice.
The Future of the Franchise
With ongoing support for Warhammer III and speculation about new historical titles, the future of Total War looks promising. Creative Assembly continues to refine the formula, learning from past successes and fan feedback. Future lists of total war games ranked will likely expand as new installments join the franchise.
Final Thoughts
The Total War series is one of the most diverse and rewarding franchises in gaming. From medieval castles to fantasy dragons, each entry offers a unique flavor of strategy. By examining total war games ranked, you get a clearer picture of which titles shine the brightest and why the series has maintained such enduring popularity.
Whether you’re seeking nostalgia, innovation, or sheer tactical depth, there’s a Total War game that fits your style. The battlefield awaits—choose your campaign wisely.
