Medieval games have long captured the imagination of players with their brutal combat, castle sieges, and dynastic intrigue. Whether grounded in history or inspired by medieval aesthetics, these titles offer a mix of realism, fantasy, and deep gameplay systems. Below is a breakdown of ten enduring medieval games that continue to be played, praised, and revisited.
Skyrim (The Elder Scrolls V)
Released: 2011
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360/One/Series X|S, PS3/4/5, Switch
Despite its fantasy leanings, Skyrim is built on a deeply medieval foundation. From the architecture of its holds to the knight-like warriors of Whiterun, the setting borrows heavily from Norse and Anglo-Saxon traditions. Its open world, modding potential, and nonlinear play have earned it critical acclaim across more than a decade. It remains one of the most ported and supported titles in gaming history.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance I and II
Released: 2018
Developer: Warhorse Studios
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PS4
This is one of the few games that avoids fantasy in favour of historical authenticity. Set in early 15th-century Bohemia, it recreates the era’s clothing, architecture, speech, and combat with meticulous detail. Critics praised its ambition and realism, though its early bugs were noted. Today, with patches and DLC, it stands as one of the most immersive medieval simulations.
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
Released: 2022 (Early Access 2020)
Developer: TaleWorlds Entertainment
Platforms: PC, Xbox One/Series X|S, PS4/5
A vast sandbox strategy game where players build armies, siege cities, and influence politics across the fictional Calradia. Its modular gameplay blends third-person action with grand strategy. Though criticised at launch for a lack of polish, consistent updates have made it one of the richest medieval war simulators available.
Chivalry 2
Released: 2021
Developer: Torn Banner Studios
Platforms: PC, Xbox One/Series X|S, PS4/5
Designed for chaotic, cinematic melee combat, Chivalry 2 refines the formula established by its predecessor. Inspired by medieval films and battlefields, it offers large-scale multiplayer clashes complete with siege engines, castle assaults, and brutal finishers. The combat is exaggerated, but well-balanced and responsive. Strong post-launch support keeps the community active.
For Honor
Released: 2017
Developer: Ubisoft
Platforms: PC, Xbox One, PS4 (playable on current-gen consoles via compatibility)
For Honor’s concept of pitting knights, vikings, and samurai against each other in a shared world is unique. Its art style is medieval throughout, and the innovative directional combat system rewards precision and timing. The game found a strong niche following and has been supported with numerous updates, new fighters, and seasonal events.
Dark Souls Series
Released: 2011–2016
Developer: FromSoftware
Platforms: PC, Xbox 360/One/Series X|S, PS3/4/5, Switch (via Remastered)
While fantasy is central, the world design is steeped in medieval themes. Gothic castles, undead knights, and grim settings all reflect late medieval Europe. These games are known for their difficulty, lore, and haunting atmosphere. Critics consistently rank Dark Souls among the most influential games of the last two decades.
Total War: Medieval II
Released: 2006
Developer: Creative Assembly
Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux (via Steam)
A classic in strategy gaming, it combines real-time battles with turn-based empire building. Players manage everything from crusades and diplomacy to technological advances. Though now dated in visuals, it remains a favourite for modders and fans of historical warfare. The Kingdoms expansion further enriched its already deep campaign.
A Plague Tale: Innocence / Requiem
Released: 2019 / 2022
Developer: Asobo Studio
Platforms: PC, Xbox One/Series X|S, PS4/5, Switch (cloud version)
These narrative-focused games are set during the Hundred Years’ War in France, following siblings fleeing the Inquisition and the Black Death. While not combat-heavy, the visual detail, tone, and historical context make them stand out. Critics praised the writing, voice acting, and environmental storytelling.
Crusader Kings III
Released: 2020
Developer: Paradox Interactive
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
Not about warfare in the conventional sense, Crusader Kings is a grand strategy game centred on medieval dynasties. Players manage inheritance, religion, vassals, and intrigue across generations. The historical detail is immense, and the emergent storytelling is unmatched. It is a critical success and has found a strong audience among strategy enthusiasts.
Mordhau
Released: 2019
Developer: Triternion
Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5
Mordhau is a competitive medieval multiplayer game with a steep learning curve and detailed melee system. It is grounded in skill-based combat, offering a customisable experience from foot soldiers to cavalry. Despite a smaller profile than Chivalry, it has built a loyal following and continues to be supported by community content.
These games represent different aspects of medieval life and imagination, from authentic reconstructions to myth-heavy epics. Most are available on major platforms or through Steam and Game Pass, making them accessible to new players. Each offers a distinct take on the medieval world, keeping the genre alive and evolving.
