Best Handheld Strategy Games, Ranked

People who thought that handheld gaming shouldn't be taken seriously sang a different tune after Nintendo's continued efforts to do justice to this form of gaming. The 3DS was the sole reason why this company was still afloat after the colossal failure of the Wii U, and the Switch has shown how powerful a hybrid console can be that combines the best of both worlds. As a result, fans will have a great time playing handheld games that make the most of this medium. Players can enjoy everything from bite-sized experiences to fun gameplay-driven titles.

Many genres have made the most of the portable gaming experience, and strategy titles are no exception. The best games in this genre let players enjoy easy-to-understand gameplay loops that feature a ton of depth. These titles force players to use their minds on the go to find the most optimal solution to the problems that stand in their way.

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5 Hitman Go

Beautifully Translates The Hitman Formula To Mobile Devices

Many people wondered how a mobile Hitman game would work, especially one where Agent 47's stealthy exploits were reduced to what seemed like a fancy board game. Thankfully, not only did Hitman Go let players enjoy one of the simplest and most imaginative video games of all time, but it also kickstarted a trend of games that used other IPs and gave them a strategy twist.

Players must observe a stage and figure out the best moves they can take in any given situation. As one would expect, the first few levels in this game are as easy as they come. Things get interesting when the game starts ramping up its difficulty and introduces new enemy types and hazards that players must overcome. It's an excellent game that made the most of the handheld's limitations, letting players enjoy small, satisfying levels that they could tackle at their own pace.

4 Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

A Sequel To One Of The Greatest Final Fantasy Spin-Offs

Final Fantasy Tactics is hailed by many as one of the greatest spinoffs of all time. It's easy to see why a sequel to this title would hyped to the roof and back. The tone of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is noticeably lighter than its predecessor (with the art style reflecting this change). But still, fans of tight, engaging turn-based strategy games will find Final Fantasy Tactics Advance to be one of the best handheld strategy games they can get their hands on.

The isekai storyline is a unique twist that invigorates the storyline of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and helps players relate to the four children who are transported to this world. With a job system keeping the gameplay fresh and invigorating, it's easy to see why fans love the strategic goodness in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance.

3 SteamWorld Heist

Ricochet Bullets And Board Enemy Spaceships Makes

Roguelike games have become all the rage with the rise of indie gaming, and SteamWorld Heist is a great example. This game uses the interesting premise of robotic gangs battling each other in space and combines it with unique turn-based strategy mechanics, turning combat into a wild ride.

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There's something cathartic about ricocheting bullets and hitting enemies who feel like they're safe behind cover. The captivating art style and riveting gameplay make SteamWorld Heist one of the best games on the 3DS. It's easy to see why fans have been graced with a sequel that builds on these gameplay mechanics and then some.

2 Jeanne d'Arc

A Unique Dark Fantasy Spin On History

The story of Joan of Arc is familiar to any history buff. This peasant came from nowhere to lead an army, before being persecuted for being a witch. Her legacy as the defender of the French nation is impressive. Players who want to check out the story of this amazing knight with a fantasy twist will love what the PSP strategy game Jeanne d'Arc brings to the table.

With the English forming a pact with demons to take over France, a young village girl and her friends decide to embark on a quest to save her nation after a divine voice gifts her an armlet that lets her wield the power of the heavens. The game's cel-shading and riveting plotline make it one of the best strategy games on the PlayStation Portable. It's a shame that more people haven't checked out one of the best portable video games of all time.

1 Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade

Introduced The West To The Beauty Of Fire Emblem

Fire Emblem is one of the greatest strategy video game series of all time, and is a mainstay on Nintendo consoles. Most people would think that this series was popular in the West from its very first entry. However, it took a long time before Fire Emblem made a splash outside of Japan. The Game Boy Advance served as the console that helped this series reach immense levels of popularity.

Known only as Fire Emblem in the West, Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade is a challenging and rewarding strategy RPG with amazing visuals and an epic story. The gameplay is far from easy, with the looming threat of permadeath making it harrowing for players to go through a level. A single costly mistake can lead to the death of a party member they've grown attached to. The epic storyline and Lyn's memorable role as the protagonist make it clear why this game was a major success. This game paved the way for Fire Emblem to become one of Nintendo's most valuable IPs.

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