Best Turn-Based Strategy Games Like Zero Company for Steam Machine

If you loved the base-building, squad-level tactics, and resource management of Zero Company, the best Steam Machine–compatible alternative is XCOM 2. It delivers the same tense cover-based combat, permadeath stakes, and strategic layer, and it runs well on the Steam Machine’s Linux-based OS thanks to its native port and solid optimization.

What to Look For

When choosing a turn-based strategy game for Steam Machine, focus on these criteria:

• Linux/SteamOS compatibility: Steam Machines run SteamOS (Linux), so check for a native Linux version or a verified Proton rating. Native is safest, but Proton (Valve’s compatibility layer) works well for many games.
• Performance on modest hardware: Steam Machines often have mid-range GPUs (like GTX 960 or similar). Look for games that are not overly demanding or have scalable graphics settings.
• Core gameplay loop: You want a mix of tactical combat, base management, and progression—similar to Zero Company’s blend of squad tactics and building.
• Replayability: Procedural generation, mod support, or multiple campaigns add value.
• Controller support: Steam Machines often use a controller, so ensure the game has good gamepad UI or at least Steam Input support.

XCOM 2

Strengths: The gold standard for turn-based tactics. Deep cover system, destructible environments, and a compelling strategic layer where you manage the Avenger, research, and soldier progression. Native Linux version runs well on SteamOS, and the “War of the Chosen� expansion adds even more content.

Trade-offs: Can be punishingly difficult, especially for newcomers. The strategic layer can feel overwhelming. Performance on older Steam Machines may require lowering shadows and effects.

Who it suits: Players who want a challenging, feature-complete tactics game with high replay value and don’t mind a steep learning curve.

Phoenix Point

Strengths: Created by the original X-COM designer, this game adds a unique free-aim system where you can target specific body parts. It also features a dynamic faction system and a global threat that evolves. Native Linux support is solid, and the game runs well on mid-range hardware.

Trade-offs: The UI can be clunky, and the free-aim mechanic may feel gimmicky to some. The game’s balance has been criticized, and the DLCs are almost necessary for a full experience.

Who it suits: Veterans of the genre looking for a fresh twist on the formula, and fans of alien-horror themes.

Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden

Strengths: A streamlined, story-driven tactics game with stealth mechanics. You control a small team of mutants exploring a post-apocalyptic world. The characters are memorable, and the combat is satisfying. It has a native Linux version and runs well on Steam Machines, with a simple control scheme that works great with a controller.

Trade-offs: Shorter campaign (around 15-20 hours) and less base-building than Zero Company. The stealth system can be finicky, and there’s less replay value.

Who it suits: Players who prefer a more narrative-focused, smaller-scale tactical experience without the heavy management overhead.

Into the Breach

Strengths: A pure puzzle-like tactics game where you control three mechs to defend cities from giant bugs. Every turn is a puzzle, and the game is incredibly tight and polished. It runs flawlessly on Linux and even on older hardware, and the turn-based nature works perfectly with a controller.

Trade-offs: No base building or resource management—it’s purely combat. The game is short (a run is about 2 hours), though it has high replayability through unlockable squads and difficulty levels.

Who it suits: Players who want a quick, deep tactical challenge without the long-term campaign commitment.

Wasteland 3

Strengths: A full-fledged RPG with turn-based combat, set in a post-apocalyptic Colorado. It features deep character customization, branching storylines, and a co-op mode. The game has a native Linux version and runs well on Steam Machines, though you may need to tweak settings for smooth performance.

Trade-offs: The RPG elements (dialogue, exploration) may overshadow the tactical combat for some. The game is long (40+ hours), and the load times can be noticeable on older hardware.

Who it suits: Players who want a story-rich tactics game with a world to explore, and those who enjoy party-based RPGs.

BattleTech

Strengths: A faithful adaptation of the tabletop game, focusing on mech combat. You manage a mercenary company, upgrade your mechs, and engage in tactical battles. The game has a native Linux version and runs well on mid-range systems. The depth of customization is immense.

Trade-offs: The learning curve is steep, and the campaign can become repetitive. The UI is dense and may be difficult to navigate with a controller.

Who it suits: Hardcore strategy fans who love mechs and don’t mind a complex management layer.

How to Choose

Budget: All these games are often on sale. Into the Breach is the cheapest, while XCOM 2 and Wasteland 3 can be pricier with DLC. Phoenix Point and BattleTech fall in the middle.

Use case: If you want the closest experience to Zero Company with base building and squad tactics, choose XCOM 2 or Phoenix Point. If you prefer a shorter, more focused tactical experience, go with Into the Breach or Mutant Year Zero. For a story-heavy RPG, pick Wasteland 3. For mech fans, BattleTech is the obvious choice.

Trade-offs: The biggest trade-off is complexity vs. accessibility. XCOM 2 and BattleTech are deep but have steep learning curves. Into the Breach is easy to learn but hard to master. Mutant Year Zero is accessible but short. Also consider performance: Into the Breach runs on anything, while Wasteland 3 may need a decent GPU.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do these games run natively on SteamOS or do they need Proton?
A: XCOM 2, Phoenix Point, Mutant Year Zero, Into the Breach, and BattleTech have native Linux versions. Wasteland 3 also has a native Linux port. So no Proton needed for these, though Proton is an option for other games.

Q: Can I use a controller with these games?
A: Yes, most of them have full controller support. Into the Breach and Mutant Year Zero are especially controller-friendly. BattleTech and Phoenix Point are better with mouse and keyboard, but Steam Input can help.

Q: Which game is the most like Zero Company in terms of base building?
A: XCOM 2 has the most robust base management (the Avenger ship). Phoenix Point also has base building, but it’s more about global strategy than a single hub.

Q: Are there any games with multiplayer?
A: Wasteland 3 offers co-op (two players). XCOM 2 has multiplayer, but it’s not the focus. Others are single-player only.

Q: Will these games run on a low-end Steam Machine?
A: Into the Breach will run on almost anything. Mutant Year Zero is also light. XCOM 2 and Wasteland 3 may require lowering settings on older hardware. BattleTech is CPU-heavy but generally okay.

Q: Do any of these games have mod support?
A: XCOM 2 has excellent mod support (Steam Workshop). BattleTech also has mods. Others have limited or no mod support.

Bottom Line

For the best overall experience that mirrors Zero Company’s blend of tactics and management, XCOM 2 is the top pick. It’s challenging, deep, and runs well on Steam Machine. If you want something lighter or more story-driven, Into the Breach and Mutant Year Zero are excellent alternatives. Consider your tolerance for complexity and hardware limits, and you’ll find the right fit.

Related

• Paris Games Biz: Guarded Optimism Amid Turmoil
• Cargo Spacecraft After ISS Delivery: What Happens
• Statistical Modeling in America: Uses and Pitfalls