Medieval-themed games attract a loyal fan base fascinated by the ability to create and manage their own territories as well as the unique atmosphere that lets players build small villages, great cities or magnificent kingdoms.

These strategy games challenge players to cope with all the dangers along the way, such as harsh weather conditions and limited resources. In this article, we will introduce you to 5 best medieval city-building games that will keep you entertained for hours and fulfill your passion for strategic building games!

Must-Play Medieval City-Building Games
GameReleaseGenreDeveloper
Banished 2014-02-18 RPG Shining Rock Software LLC
Stronghold Crusader HD 2002-07-31 Real time strategy FireFly Studios
Medieval Dynasty 2020-09-17 Simulation Render Cube
Kingdoms and Castles 2017-07-20 Indie Lion Shield, LLC
The Settlers 2: 10th Anniversary Strategy
Life is Feudal: Your Own 2015-11-17 Indie Bitbox Ltd.
Dawn of Man 2019-03-01 Indie Madruga Works
Dawn of Discovery (Anno 1404) (PC) 2009-06-23 Strategy Ubisoft
Towns 2012-11-07 Management Xavi Canal, Ben Palgi
Farthest Frontier 2022-08-09 Crate Entertainment
Colony Survival 2017-06-16 Indie Pipliz

Banished

Release date:2014-02-18
Genre:Economy
Developer:Shining Rock Software LLC

Banished is an extremely popular economy simulation game that captivates players with its challenging mechanics. In the game, players take on the role of a leader of a group of exiles who must build a new settlement to survive.

Effective resource management is crucial in keeping the population alive and expanding the settlement, while dealing with harsh weather, diseases and natural disasters that could lead to the extinction of the population.

Key features
  • Lack of combat elements
  • Smart resource management
  • No real currency – the necessity of trading
  • Caring for the settlement’s inhabitants

Stronghold

Release date:2023-11-07
Genre:Real time startegy
Developer:FireFly Studios

In Stronghold, the players enter the world of a medieval kingdom that must be managed to ensure the safety of its inhabitants and its economic and military development. The player is engaged in castle-building, making sure that it is capable of defending itself against enemy invasions.

It is also crucial to take care of the inhabitants of the kingdom, providing them with the necessary infrastructure and resources. One of the most spectacular element of the game are sieges, during which impressive types of weapons such as catapults are used.

Key features
  • Managing both the military and economic aspects of the kingdom
  • Control over castle construction
  • Action set in medieval Europe
  • Spectacular sieges

Anno 1404

Release date:2020-06-25
Genre:Strategy
Developer:Ubisoft Blue Byte

Anno 1404 is the fourth part of the popular Anno series, which takes us back to the 15th century to explore medieval Europe and the Middle East. In the game, you manage settlements, build cities and trade goods. You also have to manage resources in such a way that the needs of your inhabitants are met.

Maintaining good diplomatic relations with other factions is also an important part of the game as it’s a way to acquire new oriental goods needed to develop your city.

Key features
  • Oriental climate
  • Extensive trading system
  • Wise resource management
  • Maintaining diplomatic relations

Foundation

Release date:2025-01-31
Genre:Indie
Developer:Polymorph Games

This is another medieval city-building game, in which players must one again manage a settlement and transform a small village into kingdom. While gathering resources and constructing infrastructure, the settlement gradually expands.

Crucial element of Foundation is the ability to build your city without grid constraints allowing for more flexible layouts. The game also emphasizes the needs of your citizens which you have to properly balance.

Key features
  • Lack of grid
  • Gradual development (village to kingdom)
  • Ensuring citizens satisfaction
  • Resource management

Medieval Dynasty

Release date:2020-09-17
Genre:Simulation
Developer:Render Cube

Medieval Dynasty is another city builder that combines different genres such as RPG with elements of survival and strategy. The player takes on the role of a hunter who must build a settlement from scratch and, over time, transform it into a city.

In the meantime, the player will also have to take care of the inhabitants of the settlement and build their own family, which can grow into a powerful dynasty over time. The game also offers you realistic day and night cycle.

Key features
  • Elements of survival
  • Gradual development
  • Lots of side quests
  • Possibility of starting your own dynasty

All the strategy games presented are an endless source of entertainment and will make your journey from village to kingdom an exciting adventure.