4X
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The next Stellaris expansion lets you take over the galaxy "without firing a single shot"
The upcoming Stellaris DLC, Willpower, developed in conjunction with Abrakam Entertainment, introduces new ways to win the 4X space game through ideological conversion and diplomacy rather than direct conflict. Players can earn and spend 'Willpower' to unlock abilities that spread their culture and convert other factions, with the option for ideological revolts. The expansion also adds new paragon leaders tied to specific ethics and releases on November 23.
Tabletop Strategy Wargame Space Empires 4X Gets a Digital Version Called Space Imperia 4X
The tabletop strategy wargame Space Empires 4X is receiving a digital adaptation titled Space Imperia 4X. The game will feature elements such as navigating dangerous hazards like Black Holes.
After Civ 7 stumbled, Humankind 2 looks like it's making smart choices to pick up the 4X torch
Amplitude's upcoming strategy game, Humankind 2, is being developed with lessons learned from Civilization 7's perceived missteps, focusing on a dynamic culture system and environmental interactions. The game aims to create more unique and historically-grounded factions by having players adapt their cultures to changing biomes and historical events.
11 underappreciated games you should buy in the Steam Autumn Sale, according to some of our biggest genre sickos
This article highlights several underappreciated PC games currently on sale during the Steam Autumn Sale, recommended by the PC Gamer team. It covers a variety of genres including RPGs, visual novels, shooters, strategy games, and cozy horror titles, with specific praise for games like Skald: Against the Black Priory and Necromunda: Hired Gun.
Endless Legend 2 shows that Amplitude is still the master of faction design
Endless Legend 2 is exiting early access, highlighting Amplitude Studios' mastery of asymmetrical faction design in the 4X genre. The game features elaborate campaigns, new city-building mechanics, and unique factions that require players to adapt their strategies significantly.
Endless Legend 2 version 1.0 review: This is why 4X fans love Amplitude
Endless Legend 2 is a magnificent example of why Amplitude Studios is so loved by 4X fans, delivering the studio's trademark creativity and standout visual design in a modernized package. The game excels in its science fantasy setting, asymmetrical factions, and dynamic map changes that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging throughout. While tactical combat could be richer, the overall experience is a standout in the strategy genre.
Civilization 7 will finally enter the atomic age in 2027, via a free update Firaxis says will be 'even bigger in…
Firaxis has announced that Civilization 7 will receive a free update called 'Arc of Tomorrow' in 2027, which will extend the game's timeline to 2050 and introduce expanded nuclear gameplay, atomic-era diplomacy, and Cold War-style proxy wars. This update will likely launch alongside the 'Earthrise' expansion, which focuses on space exploration. The base game is currently free to play until September 10 and 50% off until September 17.
MMOs You’ve Never Heard Of: Elegon, Idle Clans, and Interstellar Empires
This article rounds up several lesser-known multiplayer online games, including Elegon, a solo-developed MMORPG focused on exploration and cooperation; Idle Clans, an idle MMO for PC and mobile that has received recent updates; and Interstellar Empires, a 4X strategy browser MMO currently in open beta.
From 4X to 4R: BioEden Trades Domination for Restoration
Bio Eden, a new cozy management game from Broken Arms Games and Focus Entertainment, reinterprets the traditional 4X genre by focusing on restoration and healing rather than conquest. The game, available on Xbox Series X, trades 'eXterminate' for 'Restore, Relax, Revive, Recycle,' emphasizing environmental recovery and peaceful progression.
Paradox Interactive's Afterworld wants to entice new players to grand strategy with tasty RPG hooks
Paradox Interactive's upcoming grand strategy game, Afterworld, aims to attract new players by incorporating strong role-playing game elements into its post-apocalyptic setting. Game director Dan Lind explained that the focus on discovery and cultural development, alongside RPG-like tribe origins, is intended to make the genre more accessible. The game builds upon Paradox's legacy of complex strategy titles like Crusader Kings III and Stellaris, but with a fresh approach to player onboarding.
Humankind 2 trailer accused of being 'AI slop,' studio says nope: 'real actors, practical sets, and…
Amplitude Studios has addressed accusations that the announcement trailer for Humankind 2 utilized AI, stating that it was filmed using real actors, practical sets, and custom-made props. While the studio confirmed the use of traditional filmmaking techniques, they have not yet commented on the special effects used in the trailer's backgrounds. Humankind 2 is set to release on PC in 2027.
This week in PC games: Gamescom and GTA 6 fight for our attention, but don't forget Folk Emerging, MGS4 and the horror game about balancing a cake
This week's PC gaming news is dominated by Gamescom and a Grand Theft Auto 6 documentary, alongside a significant number of new game releases. Notable titles include the early access milsim Burned Horizons, horror visual novel Money for Girls: Amortized, and Patrice Désilets' long-troubled 1666: Amsterdam. Other releases span various genres, from bullet hell and platformers to 4X strategy and survival games.
What are we all playing this weekend?
Several members of the RPS team shared their weekend gaming plans, with some playing early access titles like Hard Void and an unnamed embargoed game, while others are enjoying puzzlers like Big Walk or racing simulators such as Dirt Rally 2.0. Some staff are taking a break from games for BBQs and holidays.
Endless Legend 2 is escaping early access in September and adding new major, minor and rogue factions
Endless Legend 2 will officially launch out of early access on September 17, with a new trailer showcasing the upcoming turn-based fantasy strategy game. The 1.0 release will introduce the final major faction, the Sandshapers, along with new minor factions and rogue factions that offer unique quests and mechanics.
Stellaris' Nomads expansion finally lets me live out my Battlestar Galactica fantasies, though its Wayline system…
The Stellaris Nomads expansion allows players to experience a nomadic playstyle with an Arkship, offering unique origins like The Sacred Path. While the Waystation resource system can be complex, the expansion adds new contracts, events like the Champion's Forge Live, and music, enhancing the overall Stellaris experience despite some balancing challenges.
Fantasy Strategy Game Driftland: The Magic Revival Arrives on PS5
Driftland: The Magic Revival, a fantasy strategy game developed by Star Drifters and published by Ultimate Games S.A., is launching on PlayStation 5 on June 12. The game, which blends RTS, 4X, and god game elements, is already available on PC and will also be released on Xbox Series X. Players control a mage who can manipulate floating islands in a shattered world.
See more Total War: Warhammer 40,000, and sign up for the closed beta
Creative Assembly has shared new footage and details for Total War: Warhammer 40,000, confirming that a closed beta will be available later this year. The game will feature iconic characters like Yarrick and Ghazghkull Thraka and will be playable on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X, marking the first time the series will be available on consoles.
Think Fast. Click Slow. RTS Hybrid D.O.T. Defence Marches Out of Early Access to Full 1.0 Launch on 11 June
Rattleaxe Games and Gamersky Games announced that D.O.T. Defence will launch its full 1.0 version on June 11, 2026, exiting Steam Early Access. The update introduces the Global Domination Mode, a 4X-lite conquest mode, alongside other refinements based on community feedback. The game blends RTS and Tower Defense elements with typical matches lasting 5-10 minutes.
Space Imperia 4X, Digital Adaptation of GMT Games' Board Game, Space Empires 4X, Launches on Steam July 28
Breich Games announced that Space Imperia 4X, a digital adaptation of GMT Games' board game, will launch on Steam for Windows, macOS, and Linux/SteamOS on July 28, 2026, with a retail price of $22.99 and a launch-week discount. The game will also feature cross-platform desktop support and mobile versions will follow. The developer cited strategic timing around Steam's seasonal sales and events as the reason for the July release date.
Driftland: The Magic Revival to Launch on Xbox on May 22
The fantasy strategy game Driftland: The Magic Revival, developed by Star Drifters and published by Ultimate Games S.A., is launching on Xbox Series X|S on May 22 and PlayStation 5 on June 12. The game, which blends RTS, 4X, and god game mechanics, is already available on PC and features players moving and reshaping floating islands in a world recovering from a mage war.