Summary
While many gamers out there prefer fast-paced, high-octane action titles nowadays, others might opt for games within the genre ofturn-based combat. Operating on an alternating turn-by-turn basis, they can offer a slower, more methodical experience while still being highly engaging like more action-oriented titles.
However, some players may be reluctant to pay the often hefty full-price for a game, especially if they aren’t familiar with a core gameplay element like the combat system. But, with the rising popularity of thelive-service modelin the industry, there is no shortage of new games out there to try that are completely free-to-play.
While free-to-play titles often include some form of purchase option for cosmetics or other ingame items, this is not required in any of these games, and players can choose to engage without spending a dime.
Based on the classic board game with the same title,RISK: Global Dominationoffers the familiar turn-based strategy combat experience wrapped up in an online free-to-play package.Global Dominationfollows the same gameplay and rules as the traditional board game, where players control their army and must beat their opponents by conquering countries across a real-world map.
The gameplay formula forRISKis relatively simple but can offer some complex challenges along the way in both singleplayer and multiplayer modes. Containing a variety of campaigns with variations in the map layout, from simplified versions to even having maps based centuries in the future. It has a fresh, more modernized take but still remains true to its roots, offering both casual and competitive experiences — depending on the player’s preference.
7Franzen
An Indie Steampunk JRPG Oozing With Character
Released on Steam & Itch.io back in September 2023,Franzenis asmall, indie-developed JRPGthat is considered a sort of “hidden-gem” among its fan base. From its interesting lore to its unique steampunk aesthetic, this retro-style JRPG is dripping with unique character.
Taking place 18 years after a catastrophic event,Franzen’s dystopian world is now filled with evil creatures called “Daemon” that the player must face along the way. It’s very reminiscent of the earlyFinal Fantasytitles, from its 16-bit graphics to its [active time battle] system.
Overall, the game is both nostalgic and charming. With a story that only lasts a few hours, it’s a perfect game to relax and play through in an afternoon.
6Shining Force Classics
Sega’s Classic JRPG Trilogy On The Go
For those looking for something more “retro,”Shining Force Classicstakes the beloved JRPG trilogy from the Sega Genesis and brings it over as a free-to-play mobile game.
The bundle itself includes two different styles of game, with the first being a 3D Dungeon-Crawler, and the other two being Top-Down RPGs (both having turn-based combat systems). While these three classic titles belong to the same broader universe, they all follow different storylines and characters, so each experience offers something unique. Perhaps the best part aboutShining Force Classicsis that the developers have kept faithful to the originals with only minor improvements added — like a better save system, leaderboards, and controller support.
Despite being over 30 years old now, the trilogy holds up incredibly well today and is definitely a must-play for the 16-bit-era fans out there.
5Magic: The Gathering Arena
No More Lugging Around Playmats & Binders Of Cards
Magic: The Gathering Arenais essentially the virtual version of thelong-running physical card game, which can be an expensive hobby with all the deck options available. Luckily,MTG Arenaoffers the same card-collecting experience and turn-based combat system in a free-to-play format.
A great aspect ofArenais that it offers different “formats” for gameplay, which can range in card options, deck size, and overall difficulty, so it can appeal to both new and veteran players alike. Not to mention its free-to-play status on both PC and mobile platforms makes it a great way for card game fans to get theirMagicfix easily.
The long-awaited sequel to the original,Girls' Frontline 2: Exiliumfinally saw its worldwide release this past December after being exclusive to the Chinese Region for the past year. Following the events of the first game, the player takes on the role of “The Commander,” again tasked with leading a group of human-like militaristic robots known as Tactical Dolls(or “T-Dolls” for short)
The game features a plethora of story missions, challenges, and special events, each containing mostly PvE with optional PvP elements. The combat system focuses heavily on buffs, debuffs, and especially status effects that vary by character, making team synergy a very important part of getting through its many levels. While the theme may not be every gamers “thing,” so to speak,Girls' Frontline 2is a very enjoyable free-to-play game overall that even includes some surprisingly deep lore.
Limbus Company’sbleak atmosphere and deep story was a bit of a surprise hit when it came out in early 2023, generating a massive playerbase that’s still growing today. The player is given the title of Executive Manager ofLimbus Company, a group of sinners traversing the various districts of its dark-fantasy world known as “the City,” battling mercenaries and monstrous enemies.
Further than just its unique atmosphere andcolorful cast of characters,Limbus Company’scombat system is perhaps its biggest selling point. It functions in a different way than the average turn-based system, where each sinner has their own set of skills laid out during battle — dragging across the line of skills will connect them to form a chain of powerful attacks. It makes the battle system more freeing and engaging overall, giving the player lots of options for different attack chains.
Limbus Companyis a thoughtful and well-crafted game, and for those who love dark-fantasy titles, it’s free-to-play on both Steam and mobile (with cross-platform support to boot).
Adding to the long list of titles in the franchise,Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocketrecently came to Android & iOS this past October, offering the wildly popular card game in a more approachable and accessible format.
ThePokemonserieshardly needs an introduction at this point with how popular it’s become, and it’s only grown bigger now withTCG Pocket’shuge release. This iteration for the mobile platform provides the usualPokemoncard game experience, with a few minor changes to streamline its mechanics a bit. For example, the maximum deck size has been brought down from the usual 60 cards to 20, making each battle move much more quickly, and the overall gameplay is a bit more welcoming to newer players.
For those who prefer the full, traditionalPokemon TCGexperience,Pokemon TCG Liveis another free-to-play option that follows the physical card game rules much closer.
Honkai: Star Railis the most recent installment in theHonkaiseries, featuring a colorful, eye-catching art style and having perhaps one of the most unique settings on this list. Players are put in control of up to four characters as they battle across various locations in space, starting off on the Astral Express, a large space train that has been overrun with Alien-like creatures.
Created bythe same studio behindZenless Zone ZeroandGenshin Impact,Star Railoperates with similar concepts, but it instead offers explosive turn-based combat. Each character has their own strengths in combat, making team-building important while also making the game feel fresh and fun with each encounter. With its engaging story also being constantly expanded upon with free content releases,Honkai: Star Railis a fantastic free-to-play option for those looking for a well-rounded turn-based game.
