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 decades, offering players the chance to embody brave knights, cunning rulers, or shrewd diplomats. This article presents 15 of the best medieval-themed games, encompassing epic battles, political machinations, kingdom management, and the struggle for survival in a harsh historical landscape. Prepare to don your armor and plunge into a world ruled 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 delivers unforgettable hours in a brutally realistic world. Our 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 mastery of swordplay. New features include a less-than-convenient inventory, the ability to wear multiple outfits, blacksmithing, potion brewing, and more. The compelling storyline may prove daunting for those who dislike extensive dialogue, but the immersive experience of a dark and brutal Middle Ages makes it worthwhile.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

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

This legendary Witcher saga deserves a spot on any best-of list. Geralt’s quest to find Ciri intertwines with romance, Gwent, countless side quests, and acts of selfless aid. The game’s captivating atmosphere keeps players engaged whether wielding swords or magic. Your choices shape the ending, so pay close attention to dialogue! Enhance the experience with mods for an even richer adventure. The crafting, character progression, armor upgrades, and diverse quests all contribute to a classic RPG experience, where the medieval fantasy world feels authentic.

Medieval Dynasty

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

Always dreamed of building your own medieval village? Medieval Dynasty lets you do just that. You’ll not only construct buildings, but also develop your settlement by attracting new residents and expanding crafting opportunities. Villagers hunt, cook, sew, and contribute to the village’s economy and growth. The game also includes personal life elements: marriage, children (who grow over several in-game years), and the passing of generations. Farming, questing, and managing your thriving community will keep you busy for hours.

Manor Lords

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

Another captivating settlement builder, Manor Lords, a single-developer project, gained immense popularity in 2024. Recent updates have enhanced the gameplay significantly. Here, village building combines with territorial conquest and defense, adding a thrilling layer of strategy. The game boasts impressive graphics and allows for direct control of your ruler, making exploration of your holdings more engaging. Careful economic management is crucial for survival.

Medieval II: Total War

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

This renowned strategy series immerses players in the Middle Ages, where managing populations, building cities, and raising armies are key to territorial expansion and prosperity. Choose from Western European and Middle Eastern factions (17 in total, with some unlocked progressively). Single-player and multiplayer campaigns are available, with dynamic weather and terrain impacting battles.

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord

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

Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord, set 200 years before the first game, offers improved combat and an expanded world. Explore, conquer territories, build your army, and lead troops in realistic battles with hundreds of unique units. Multiplayer battles provide intense player-versus-player action. Mastering the economy—trading, securing trade routes, and managing prices—is crucial for success.

Stronghold Series

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

Stronghold blends real-time strategy with city building. Construct and defend your castle, manage finances, and conquer enemy lands. Maintain citizen happiness, build defenses, and develop your economy while fending off enemy attacks and even pesky wolves! Resource management and timely production of weapons are essential.

Mount & Blade: Warband

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

Mount & Blade: Warband, despite its 2010 release, offers a remarkably immersive medieval experience. Build your kingdom, recruit knights, and grant them lands. The refined combat system emphasizes parrying and blocking. Similar in concept and gameplay to Bannerlord.

Bellwright

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

In Bellwright, you're a wrongly imprisoned individual leading a revolution against a tyrant. Build and manage settlements, gather resources, and recruit villagers with unique skills. Strategic city management and military might are both crucial for victory. Choose your weapons and fighting style as you progress.

Dragon Age: Inquisition

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

A cataclysm has plunged the land into chaos. As the Inquisitor, you must lead the Inquisition, restore order, and confront the forces of chaos. This classic RPG features character leveling, crafting, quests, and exploration. Don’t neglect side quests, as they strengthen your power.

Dragon’s Dogma 2

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

A traditional medieval fantasy with heroes, magic, and mythical creatures. As the Arisen, you must defeat an evil dragon and reclaim your stolen heart. Explore a vast open world, solve riddles, and utilize unique grappling mechanics. The companion system allows you to summon "pawns" to aid you in battle.

A Plague Tale: Requiem

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

Following the events of the first game, Amicia and Hugo embark on a new journey seeking a cure for Hugo's affliction. The sequel features larger, more open environments, but stealth remains a crucial mechanic. Master enemy routes and utilize your wits to survive.

Graveyard Keeper

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

As a graveyard keeper in the Middle Ages, you’ll manage burials and finances in this darkly humorous economic simulator. The game also features a touching love story and a surprisingly poignant plot.

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 citizen happiness. Utilize "smart brushes" for efficient and environmentally conscious building.

Banished

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

This city-building strategy game emphasizes resource management and the development of a medieval society. A bartering system replaces currency, and preventing population decline is crucial. Develop various industries and manage citizen professions to ensure your settlement thrives.

This concludes our exploration of 15 outstanding medieval-themed games. With a diverse range of genres represented, there’s sure to be something here to capture your imagination and provide countless hours of entertainment.