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The medieval period was a time of hardship and feudalism, as well as unchecked power. Peasants stayed peasants and performed back-breaking work for zero pay, while kings and queens lived in unparalleled luxury in their grand palaces.
It was an era of so-called chivalrous knights and fair maidens, but also one of violence and unimaginable toil. There are certain games that emulate and depict the medieval era so realistically that they undoubtedly deserve a bit of time in the spotlight.
8 Kingdom Come: Deliverance
Set during the 1400s in the Kingdom of Bohemia, Kingdom Come: Deliverance sees you play as a young man named Henry who loses his parents to an invasion by Emperor Sigismund's army. Henry's journey sends him down a path of vengeance and self-discovery.
The game is remarkable for its unabashed level of realism. For example, stealth is difficult to pull off since the game takes into account the type of armor you wear — flashy colors make Henry stand out. Combat is another dauntingly challenging prospect, as it'll really show you that it was "every man for himself" back in those days.
7 Crusader Kings 3
The third iteration to the Crusader Kings franchise, Crusader Kings 3 is an RPG and strategy game taking place during the medieval era — your overarching goal is making your dynasty the most powerful in the world. But of course, it's not that simple.
There are countless bases from which you can start your journey, from a tiny kingdom in Cornwall to the Holy Roman Empire. However, your decisions weigh heavily into your gameplay. Whether you're warding off plague, ordering (or preventing) assassinations, engaging in religious politics, managing your kingdom's finances, or fending off invasions, the crown of a medieval ruler will feel every bit as heavy as it should.
6 Mordhau
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If you're into full-blown, immersive medieval battles, then Mordhau is the game for you. Launched in 2019, this hack and slash game gives you the chance to experience fighting chaotic battles in full armor while wielding a whole suite of medieval weapons.
From spears to siege weapons, this multiplayer game focuses heavily on combat mechanics. You can charge from horseback or on foot and perform combat moves such as parrying and feinting. Also, what you wear factors into your speed. For example, wearing lighter armor means better mobility, while heavier armor means more restricted movement.
5 Medieval Dynasty
Medieval Dynasty is an open-world adventure RPG that sees you try to survive in the harsh world of the Middle Ages. It's definitely a long journey from being a lowly peasant to becoming the founder of a dynasty, and you'll encounter many obstacles along the way.
Being a realistic survival game, knowing how to use your environment to help you survive is essential. From growing your own orchard and creating your own thread and fabric to completing quests, there are many steps to hurdle when it comes to building your own village and establishing your legacy.
4 Conqueror's Blade
This turn-based strategy and tactical MMO developed by Booming Tech is perfect for those who love playing Total War, as well as experiencing what it's like to fight in medieval battles firsthand.
Conqueror's Blade allows you to play as a warlord of your choice, leading your army regiments to victory over other players. You can participate in territory battles and even forge your own royal House, all while wielding weapons ranging from a glaive to the Japanese nodachi. There are dire consequences if your House is defeated, so come prepared.
3 Chivalry 2
Chivalry 2 is an online hack and slash video game mainly centered on medieval combat and warfare. This game shows you the nitty-gritty of war and the bloody reality of being in the thick of it.
You're given a wide selection of weapons, from a messer to a longsword, as well as combat techniques and distinct classes to choose from. Knowing when and when not to block is pivotal, as is timing your special attacks. Of course, the realism of being able to use your enemy's mutilated arm as a weapon could be rightly questioned. But it wouldn't be too outlandish to imagine that actually happened at some point during medieval warfare, would it?
2 Medieval 2: Total War
The fourth installment in the Total War series and sequel to Medieval: Total War, this game has an extensive map covering territory from Europe to Africa. With numerous bases to start from, taking charge and ruling a kingdom is certainly no piece of cake.
Actual historical events brought into play (like the Black Death or the Mongol invasion) affect the amount of manpower your kingdom has. Different factions and religious beliefs play into ruling conquered subjects, and you have the ability to witness real-time battles and skirmishes.
1 Mount And Blade 2: Bannerlord
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This prequel to Mount and Blade: Warband is set during the dying years of the Empire of Calradia, a fictional empire equivalent to the Roman Empire. Like the Roman Empire, the Calradic Empire is beset by internal strife as well as outside invasions.
There are plenty of factions to choose from to make sure you come out on top, from the Aserai to the Battania. But whatever faction you choose, the main goal is to triumph amidst the political chaos that always occurs when an empire crumbles. Fleshing out your military units to be the deadliest and most effective in the land is key, and developing your skills will make you stand out far more than your average pleb.
So if you're keen to experience both bloody conflict and seedy politics in the medieval era, then this is the game for you.