Strategy games are a dime a dozen nowadays. Not only that, but strategy games have evolved so much that there are many sub-genres you've probably never heard of.

A great example is TBS games. While you've probably already played one of these games, you might not be familiar with the term. What's funny is that TBS games have existed even before video games. Keep reading if you want to find out more about turn-based strategy games.

What Are TBS Games?

TBS stands for turn-based strategy. And, as you can probably tell by its name, this is a type of strategy game in which you take turns to make a move. The term is similar to turn-based tactics, or TBT for short.

And while both genres have a lot of similarities (and can sometimes be used for the same games), TBT games are mostly about tactics you use to win a battle. TBS games, on the other hand, might also require you to use strategy to manage your resources and build the perfect base or empire.

Unlike other types of real-time games—which let you play at the same time—TBS games give players a set time to think about their strategy and make a move. Depending on the game you're playing, the clock will play an important role in the game as well, so players need to be aware of their time and how they manage it.

These types of games are a double-edged sword. On the one hand, giving time to each player to make a move allows everyone to think and visualize the best strategy possible.

On the other hand, TBS games might take longer than real-time games. And, of course, they require you to think carefully about your overall strategy. That doesn't mean TBS games aren't fun, but it's not everyone's cup of tea.

The History of TBS Games

As we mentioned, TBS games existed before the first video game was invented. Believe it or not, people played turn-based strategy games way before the name was invented. And it's all thanks to board games.

TBS games aren't just video games. Many other types of games can be considered turn-based games. Most board games you can think of are turn-based strategy games.

When it comes to video games, the first digital TBS games started to show up in the 80s. A game by the game of Eastern Front (1941), which came out in 1981, was one of the first turn-based strategy video games ever to come out.

Examples of TBS Games

As you know by now, TBS games aren't exclusive to the gaming world. Older games like checkers and chess are turn-based strategy games.

In the gaming world, TBS games are a dime a doze. Pretty much anything that has a turn-based system has the potential to be a turn-based strategy game, albeit you can also consider them turn-based tactics games.

Some of the most popular TBS games you've probably heard of include Darkest Dungeon, Total War, and Civilization.

But that's just some of the most popular TBS games out there. Nowadays, you can find turn-based strategy games everywhere. There are even some great browser strategy games you can play for hours.

TBS vs. RTS: What’s the Difference?

If you like strategy games, you've probably heard the term real-time strategy. But what are real-time strategy games? Real-time strategy, or RTS, is a type of strategy game in which two or more players progress through the game simultaneously.

As you can probably guess, the biggest difference between these two strategy games is the gameplay. RTS games don't have a turn-based system, so both players can move simultaneously, and the games usually move at a faster pace. That doesn't mean there's no strategy involved; you'll have to think on your feet if you want to win.

Turn-Based Strategy Games Explained

Now you know the basics. While not everyone might like the gameplay these games offer, there's no doubt that turn-based strategy games are a huge genre, and the trend won't go away any time soon. Fortunately, you can get started with TBS games for free and see if they're what you're looking for.