Welcome to the unique, turn-based strategy game set in the strange, flat world of the Square. Lead one of 16 distinct civilizations to victory by expanding your empire, researching technologies, and ultimately become ruler of the world! Play in single-player or multiplayer mode for up to 16 players.
The game offers a streamlined 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) gameplay loop that appeals to both casual and hardcore strategy game fans. Each 30-turn game allows players to quickly progress through the early, mid, and late game phases without getting bogged down in overly complex mechanics. This fast-paced approach encourages the "one more turn" mentality that fans of the genre crave.
Players can choose from 16 diverse civilizations, each with their own unique abilities, units, and playstyles. This variety encourages experimentation, as players can explore different strategic approaches and find the tribe that best suits their preferred gameplay style. The tech tree system also provides meaningful choices, enabling players to research technologies that enhance their civilization's strengths or shore up its weaknesses.
Despite its minimalist art style and streamlined mechanics, the game offers surprising strategic depth. Reviewers praise the game's ability to balance simplicity and accessibility with complex systems, such as resource management, unit composition, and city placement, creating a smooth and rewarding learning curve.
The game's multiplayer features are a significant draw for many players. It supports both online and local multiplayer modes, allowing friends and strangers to compete against each other in a fair and engaging competitive environment, with no pay-to-win mechanics or imbalanced tribe combinations.
Across the board, players praise the game's high production values, citing the distinctive minimalist art style and the excellent music and sound design, which help to immerse players in the game's world.
Reviewers commend the developers for their continued support and updates, which have introduced new content, quality-of-life improvements, and balance changes over time.