What Is a 4X Strategy Game?

Strategy games have always captured the interest of gamers who love the challenge of thinking ahead and outmaneuvering their opponents. Among these, a particular type of strategy game stands out for those who crave depth and complexity: the 4X strategy game. You may have heard the term “4X” mentioned in gaming circles, but what does it really mean? And why do these games hold such a strong appeal for dedicated players?

Picture yourself leading a civilization from its humble beginnings to an empire that stretches across continents or even galaxies. Imagine the thrill of managing resources, forging alliances, and engaging in battles that could determine the fate of your people. 4X games give you this power, along with the challenge of making decisions that will have lasting impacts. Here, we’ll break down the core elements that define 4X strategy games and introduce you to some of the best titles in the genre.

What Is a 4X Strategy Game?

A 4X strategy game is a type of video game where players control an entire civilization, empire, or faction. The name “4X” comes from the four key actions that players focus on: eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, and eXterminate. But these games are about much more than just those actions—they're about building something from the ground up and managing it effectively. In a 4X game, you often begin with just a small starting point, like a single city or basic unit, and the goal is to grow into a powerful force that can dominate the game world. While these games can be complex, that complexity is exactly what makes them so rewarding.

In these games, players manage almost every aspect of their empire, from economics to diplomacy to military strategy. 4X games are more about thoughtful, long-term planning. You’ll need to carefully consider how to grow your economy, where to expand your territory, and how to interact with other players or factions. Also, these games are typically set in vast, detailed worlds that can be rooted in real history, science fiction, or fantasy.

Gameplay

At its core, the gameplay of a 4X strategy game is built around four main actions: exploring, expanding, exploiting, and exterminating. These actions are the foundation of the genre, guiding players as they develop and manage their empires. Each 4X game may present these actions differently, but the fundamental ideas remain the same. Players usually start with a small city, base, or colony, and from that point, they make decisions that help them grow their power and control across a large map.

The first action is exploration, where players begin their journey. They send out units to uncover the unknown areas of the game world, discovering new lands, resources, and potential dangers. Next is expansion, where players grow their empire by claiming new territories. This could involve founding new cities, setting up colonies, or taking over land from others. Expansion isn't just about becoming larger; it's also about securing a stronger position. Each new territory you gain offers more resources and strategic advantages, but it also increases the risk of overextending.

After expanding, players must focus on exploitation, which is all about making the most of their resources and technology. As your empire gets bigger, managing everything—from food and minerals to technology and culture—becomes more complex. Finally, there’s extermination, which involves handling rivals and threats. In 4X games, winning doesn’t always mean destroying your enemies outright. You might succeed through diplomacy, technological dominance, or cultural influence. However, when conflict arises, having a strong military is essential.

Best 4X Strategy Games

5. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI

Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game where you guide a civilization from its earliest days to the modern era. You begin with a small settler unit and a single city, and from there, your goal is to expand and grow your empire. This involves exploring new lands, founding additional cities, and deciding how to develop your civilization. Along the way, you'll manage resources, research new technologies, and build a military to protect or expand your territory.

4. Age of Wonders 4

Age of Wonders 4 is a game where you create and rule your own fantasy world, combining strategy with turn-based combat. In this game, you can explore new magical realms, and your decisions shape the future of your empire. You can also craft your people by mixing different traits and powers, creating anything from fierce warriors to mystical societies. Furthermore, you can seek powerful magic to evolve your people, turning them into powerful beings to lead in battle.

3. Stellaris

Stellaris is a 4X strategy game that takes you on a journey across the stars, offering a mix of exploration, expansion, resource management, and space combat. You start with a small space-faring civilization, and your goal is to expand your empire across a vast, randomly generated galaxy. You send out science ships to explore new star systems, discover alien species, and colonize planets rich in resources. In addition to this, you need to manage your economy, research new technologies, and build a powerful fleet to protect your empire or conquer others.

2. Old World

Old World is a unique historical strategy game where you lead an empire through many generations, with each decision shaping your legacy. Instead of just building a nation, you guide a family dynasty. You marry for political reasons, raise heirs, and manage relationships with noble families in your kingdom. Each family offers different benefits, but keeping them happy can be tricky. If they become too powerful or upset, they might turn against you. The game also focuses on characters who have their own strengths and weaknesses.

1. Dune: Spice Wars

Dune: Spice Wars is a 4X real-time strategy game set in the Dune universe. You lead a faction to control the desert planet Arrakis, the only source of the precious spice. As you manage resources, you’ll need to wage war and navigate politics to outmaneuver rivals. Moreover, the planet’s dangers, like sandworms and storms, add to the challenge. The game also features Conquest mode and multiplayer options for varied gameplay experiences.

So, what's your take? Do you have a favourite 4X strategy game, or are you ready to dive into this deep and rewarding genre? Let us know on our socials here!