Strategy games that don't demand your whole evening

Strategy on mobile has a reputation for being either shallow or a second job. But a good few titles have found a middle ground where you get real decisions without a five-hour session.

Tidewatch Command is my current favourite example. Its supply-line focus means most of your important choices are made calmly, in advance, rather than in a frantic real-time scramble. That fits phone play beautifully.

The trick with games like this is to check in regularly rather than binge. Fifteen minutes to adjust your routes, respond to a threat, and set up the next move is often more effective than an hour of tired micromanagement.

If you've been burned by strategy games that felt like chores, it's worth giving the slower, thoughtful ones another look.