ZEPHON delivers a thrilling, combat-focused twist on the 4X genre with relentless battles, strategic depth, and a distinctively dark, immersive world that makes every encounter feel meaningful. While not without minor issues, its polished mechanics and unique setting make it an outstanding choice for fans of grim sci-fi strategy games.
Citadelum is a compelling Roman city builder that excels in its core objectives but is hindered by ambitious yet unpolished features. While it effectively captures the essence of city-building, it struggles to fully realize several of its more ambitious systems.
Crusader Kings 3: Roads to Power revolutionizes gameplay with unlanded adventures and an intricate intrigue system. This expansion redefines the experience, setting the stage for future developments.
I’m glad there’s another historical 4X on the block - and for those of you who want something a bit meatier than Civ, I think this can fit the bill. ARA: History Untold is bold, innovative and exciting - but thoroughly held back by frustrating problems and an infuriating user experience.
Frostpunk 2 lives up to - and in most ways - surpasses the original. A chilling, intense game about human survival and conflict - that will leave you questioning your own sense of morality for many hours.
Some pitfalls here and there don’t take away from the fact that Age of Mythology: Retold is a great reimagining of the classic game. It’s simultaneously faithful to its old version whilst having enough modern additions to make it satisfying to play some 20 plus years later. This is how you bring a cult classic into modern times. I hope you’re listening, Warcraft III: Reforged. It’s not that difficult now, is it?
Rogue Trader sets itself out from the crowd, both in its franchise and its genre. It feels unique. It’s not just boltguns and chainswords slapped onto Pathfinder. The thought and care to make it have its own identity has been taken, and I hope Owlcat follows through further with it. ‘Cos it works great.
Whilst far from being a massive game, Steamworld Build is undeniably likable. Its genre mixing is ambitious and well-executed. It is an interesting settlement builder and a quirky Dungeon Keeper-like. But combined, it’s a unique and deeply enjoyable experience; although one that also feels like it’s lacking long-term goals to make the sandbox mode feel worthwhile. Despite this, the game as a whole is worth playing for fans of the Steamworld franchise, and anyone who enjoys a laid-back town-building game with minimal stress.