Total War: SHOGUN 2

Even in 2026, Total War: Shogun 2 remains a masterpiece. The atmosphere, soundtrack, and gameplay are timeless. Few strategy games have aged this well.

The quintessential Total War game where if you actively hate the main campaign, then the Total War series isn't for you. Honestly the best beginner Total War for newcomers as well because it is Total War at its most basic. Easy to learn but highly replayable due to subtle differences in starting tactical situation and leveraging small bonuses to get large tactical and strategic victories. Battles are boiled down to the essentials of the series and thus getting good in this game translate to all past and future titles. Moreover the battles and campaign can be quite complex if the player really wants to delve in depth with the otherwise simplistic mechanics and optimization of the game. The art, graphics and sounds really makes you feel that you are a warlord in Feudal Japan planning your eventual take over of the country. Special attention to the announcer in the battles who really captures the feeling of battles. Easy Recommend.

Arguably the best total war in the series (I haven't played any other total war game). Runs on a potato, too.