These feel fast-paced, readable yet challenging all at once - and I found myself rushing around the outside world just to get back to the combat as quickly as possible. The limited playthrough time meant I only got a look at the early game, so I was unable to get to grips with big meta systems like the economy, but I did sense that Planetfall's strengths lie in the tactical turn-based battles. For more experienced strategy players, Planetfall provides depth with secret tech trees, multiple research branches, and modding options for units. The vibrancy of the sci-fi world makes it engaging even for newcomers (although the systems may be intimidating for some at first). While Planetfall isn't doing anything radically different within the 4X genre - and I did spot the occasional animation bug - it's a solid and pleasant experience. The aim, as ever, is to meet a victory condition: either through conquest, diplomacy or doomsday techs.Īt a preview event last week, I got a brief glimpse at a beta build, and what I saw was promising. This time, players are required to build their own empire from the ashes of the fallen Star Union - possibly a cautionary tale for what happens if you fail to manage your own resources correctly.

As per any Age of Wonders, the focus is on tactical turn-based battles and empire-building, with its trademark role-playing elements in the form of characterful races thrown in.

Landing on PC, PS4 and Xbox One on 6th August, Age of Wonders: Planetfall is the latest game from Triumph Studios. What's this: giant space fish? Insectoids? A fully developed diplomacy system? The new Age of Wonders game is looking very different from its high fantasy predecessors, having taken to the stars to explore a brand new sci-fi setting.

Age of wonders planetfall beta