In Episode 19 of the Critical Moves Podcast, hosts Al, Nuno, and new team member Adam dive into a variety of indie strategy games showcased during Steam's Next Fest. With a mix of curiosity and caution, the team plays through several promising titles, offering a candid look at what strategy fans can expect from these upcoming releases. While not all of the games hit the mark, this episode provides an honest assessment of the good, the bad, and the surprising standouts. From tactical deck-builders to historical simulations, they cover a wide range of strategy experiences and give their verdicts on which games are worth your time.
Starless Abyss – This tactical deck-builder merges sci-fi themes with games like FTL, Into the Breach, and Slay the Spire. Adam is particularly impressed with the game’s tactical decisions, strong visuals, and ability to carve its own niche despite drawing inspiration from Warhammer’s dark aesthetic. It offers tight, satisfying gameplay and meaningful challenges.
Task Force Admiral – Nuno dives into this WWII Pacific theater strategy game, which offers a one-to-one naval warfare simulation. With a focus on historical accuracy and a user-friendly interface, the game balances complex fleet management with accessible gameplay, creating a next-gen wargame experience that stands out for its attention to detail.
Roman Triumph – Al brings this survival city-builder into the discussion. In Roman Triumph, players build Roman settlements in ancient Europe while managing resources and defending against mythological creatures. Still in early development, the game’s blend of historical simulation with fantasy elements makes it an interesting title to watch as it evolves.
Orbi Universo II – A deep management simulation that Adam found overwhelming yet intriguing. With a steep learning curve and abstract strategy focus, the game might appeal to players who enjoy complex systems, but it could prove challenging for more casual fans.
The King is Watching – A quirky title that stood out to the team. The game introduces a unique mechanic where buildings only function under the gaze of the player’s king. This innovative approach to city management offers a refreshing twist, making it a surprising favorite among the hosts.
NWO – Anarchy Collapsed – Not every game was a hit. Al was particularly critical of this self-proclaimed grand strategy game, which he found lacking in execution. With AI-generated art, poor writing, and uninspiring gameplay, NWO – Anarchy Collapsed didn’t leave a positive impression.
In this episode, listeners get a firsthand look at what the Steam Next Fest lineup has to offer in the world of strategy gaming. Al, Nuno, and Adam provide unfiltered opinions on which titles are worth keeping an eye on and which are best left for another time.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Or search Critical Moves Podcast on your preferred podcast platform.
Starless Abyss – This tactical deck-builder merges sci-fi themes with games like FTL, Into the Breach, and Slay the Spire. Adam is particularly impressed with the game’s tactical decisions, strong visuals, and ability to carve its own niche despite drawing inspiration from Warhammer’s dark aesthetic. It offers tight, satisfying gameplay and meaningful challenges. Task Force Admiral – Nuno dives into this WWII Pacific theater strategy game, which offers a one-to-one naval warfare simulation. With a focus on historical accuracy and a user-friendly interface, the game balances complex fleet management with accessible gameplay, creating a next-gen wargame experience that stands out for its attention to detail. Roman Triumph – Al brings this survival city-builder into the discussion. In Roman Triumph, players build Roman settlements in ancient Europe while managing resources and defending against mythological creatures. Still in early development, the game’s blend of historical simulation with fantasy elements makes it an interesting title to watch as it evolves. Orbi Universo II – A deep management simulation that Adam found overwhelming yet intriguing. With a steep learning curve and abstract strategy focus, the game might appeal to players who enjoy complex systems, but it could prove challenging for more casual fans. The King is Watching – A quirky title that stood out to the team. The game introduces a unique mechanic where buildings only function under the gaze of the player’s king. This innovative approach to city management offers a refreshing twist, making it a surprising favorite among the hosts. NWO – Anarchy Collapsed – Not every game was a hit. Al was particularly critical of this self-proclaimed grand strategy game, which he found lacking in execution. With AI-generated art, poor writing, and uninspiring gameplay, NWO – Anarchy Collapsed didn’t leave a positive impression.In this episode, listeners get a firsthand look at what the Steam Next Fest lineup has to offer in the world of strategy gaming. Al, Nuno, and Adam provide unfiltered opinions on which titles are worth keeping an eye on and which are best left for another time.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music. Or search Critical Moves Podcast on your preferred podcast platform.