If you enjoy building castles, throwing fire pots, and listening to peasants argue about cheese, chances are you’ve played the Stronghold series. This real-time strategy game puts you in charge of your economy and lets you attack enemy castles in a medieval setting.
With all the games, remasters, and spin-offs, it’s tough to decide which Stronghold game to try in 2026. Here’s what makes each one different, where they’re set, and which ones are worth playing.
What’s the Difference? (And Where is Each Game Set?)
The Stronghold series explores different time periods and gameplay styles, but always centers on castle building. Most games take place in medieval Europe, but a few go beyond that.
The original Stronghold (2001) and its remastered Definitive Edition (2023) are set in medieval England, where life is tough, sieges are intense, and peasants are always talking. These games focus on classic castle simulation and traditional battles.
Stronghold Crusader (2002) and the updated Crusader DE (2025) take the action to the Middle East during the Crusades. These games feature desert maps, Arabian units, and faster, skirmish-focused gameplay. Crusader II (2014) switched to 3D graphics but lost some of the original’s charm.
Stronghold 2 (2005) returns to Europe and adds new features such as feasts, crime, and court systems. It’s one of the more complex games, perfect for players who like detailed management.
Stronghold Legends (2006) moves away from history and into a fantasy version of medieval Europe. With King Arthur, dragons, and ice lords, it’s chaotic and proudly unusual.
Stronghold: Warlords (2021) changes the setting again, this time to East Asia. With Chinese, Mongol, and Japanese influences, it adds a new feature that lets players conquer neutral warlords for tactical advantages.
Stronghold 3 (2011) tries to stick to the original formula but is the weakest in the series. Technical problems, awkward AI, and a messy interface make it hard to recommend. Stronghold Kingdoms (2012), the MMO spin-off, is a slow-paced online game for a very niche group of players.
Gameplay Breakdown
The gameplay in the series changes a lot from game to game. For the best economy simulation, the original Stronghold and Stronghold 2 are top choices. They focus on resource chains, village management, and daily life in a medieval town.
If you want nonstop action, the Crusader games are your best choice. The original Crusader and its remaster are known for intense battles, fast pace, and strong AI. Warlords also brings something new with its warlord-control system.
Stronghold Legends is the wild card of the series. It’s less balanced and more unpredictable than the others. It’s the only game where a dragon can burn your siege tower. Whether you like it or not, it stands out.
Warlords and Crusader II have the best graphics, while the early games’ pixel art (especially in the Definitive Editions) still looks nice. Stronghold 3, however, is difficult to improve even with mods.
Fan Rankings (From Forums & Steam Reviews)
- Stronghold Crusader (2002) – The go-to for PvE and PvP skirmishes. Hardcore fan favorite.
- Stronghold (2001 / Definitive Edition) – Timeless castle-building and immersive sim.
- Stronghold 2 – Deep but divisive. You’ll love it or uninstall it.
- Warlords – A fresh direction with solid mechanics.
- Legends – Fun in short bursts. Fantasy lovers might dig it.
- Crusader II – Polished, but lacks soul.
- Stronghold 3 – Let’s pretend this didn’t happen.
- Kingdoms – A long-haul game for the patient and persistent.
So, Which Stronghold Game Should You Play?
If you’re new to Stronghold, the Definitive Edition is a great starting point. It keeps what made the original special and updates it for modern computers.
For fast-paced battles, try Crusader (2002) or the remastered DE version. These are the most replayable and competitive games in the series.
If you enjoy detailed management and deeper simulation, Stronghold 2 is a solid choice. Just know there’s a learning curve.
If you want something different, Warlords offers new mechanics and a unique setting. If you’re into fantasy and dragons, give Legends a try.
As for Stronghold 3… well, maybe play something else.
Whether you’re building your first castle or coming back to challenge your friends, the Stronghold series has something for every aspiring armchair lord.
