The hosts share their excitement about upcoming strategy games, from the anticipated 'Slay the Spire 2' to intriguing indie titles. They discuss the evolution and challenges of 4X games and express their complicated love for Paradox games. Nostalgic moments arise as they explore unique games like 'Dino Lords' and reminisce about lesser-known RTS games. The conversation also touches on innovative gameplay mechanics and community engagement, reflecting on the evolving gaming landscape and trends shaped by recent developments.
Upcoming strategy games like 'Civilization 7' and 'Endless Legend 2' are eagerly anticipated for their potential innovations and engagement enhancements.
The card-based roguelike genre remains popular due to its accessibility, minimal commitment, and the joy found in procedural gameplay elements.
Medieval city-building games are evolving with a focus on realism and organic development, reflecting players' changing expectations and interests.
Deep dives
Anticipated Strategy Games for 2025
The discussion highlights a variety of upcoming strategy games for 2025, emphasizing the excitement around anticipated releases like 'Civilization 7' and 'Endless Legend 2.' Participants express curiosity about how these games will address prevalent issues in the genre, especially relating to the often tedious late-game phases that many players find less engaging. There's speculation on what innovations these new titles might bring to enhance player engagement throughout the entirety of their game loops, aiming to keep the exploratory and development aspects interesting over longer play sessions. The conversation also touches upon the nostalgic feelings many fans have for classic titles, underscoring the importance of balancing new mechanics while honoring traditional gameplay elements.
Card-Based Roguelikes and Their Appeal
Recent reflections on the card-based roguelike genre underscore its enduring allure, with titles like 'Slay the Spire II' capturing attention. The speakers note how this genre often allows for satisfying runs that require minimal commitment, making it easy to pick up and enjoy without feeling compelled to reach a definitive end. Moreover, the simplicity and timelessness of these games create an inviting atmosphere for players returning to them, as many find joy in the procedural elements and unique challenges they offer. They also discuss how the genre has evolved, with newer titles striving to innovate while still acknowledging the foundational successes of earlier games.
Innovations in 4X Games
'Oxidation Universalis 5' on the horizon has prompted discussions regarding its innovative approach to governance and control within territories. Emphasis is placed on the game's potential to shift focus from traditional conquest to managing internal affairs, which could mark a new direction for the genre. By prioritizing administrative strategies over mere territorial expansion, it seeks to create more meaningful gameplay moments. The speakers express excitement about this potentially refreshing approach and how it could influence player interaction with the game's mechanics and narrative.
The Rise of Medieval City Builders
The conversation explores the increasing popularity of medieval city-building games, emphasizing titles such as 'Manor Lords' and 'Farthest Frontier.' The speakers highlight how these games are evolving to incorporate more accurate depictions of medieval life, aligning with advances in historical research and understanding. The desire for more organic urban development, where players can create irregular lots and designs, is also discussed as a significant shift in the genre. This trend towards realism and depth in city-building mechanics reflects broader changes in player expectations and the gaming landscape.
Diverse Gameplay Experiences in Strategy Games
A range of upcoming games merges different genres and themes, such as 'Generation Exile' which focuses on survival in a generational spaceship. This game's unique premise invites players to manage not only resources but the survival of a community over potentially indefinite timelines. Other notable titles discussed, like 'Kingmakers' and 'Dino Lords,' blend humor with strategy, showcasing the developers' willingness to experiment with new settings and gameplay mechanics. Overall, the speakers convey enthusiasm about the expanding creativity within strategy games, teasing new experiences that challenge traditional frameworks.
Len, Mike, and Nerium gaze down the road ahead at the most interesting and promising strategy games coming out (we hope) in 2025, from the heavy-hitters to some indie oddities.
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