Age of Wonders: Planetfall. The best strategy games of 2019

A new installment in the popular series of turn-based strategies – this time, though, players receive a spin-off. Instead of the fantasy world, the game takes us to a spectacular science fiction universe (which has some retro and fussy elements, but this is not a bad thing, especially if you’re fond of this formula). Players get to command one of several different factions, including cyborgs, sentient insects, and counterparts to some typical fantasy races such as elves and dwarves. During the game, one has to build his or her galactic empire and crush anyone who might stand in their way.

The crushing part is quite important because Planetfall is not just another 4X strategy variation. Players wage turn-based battles similar to those featured in the XCOM series – they have to find cover for their armies, choose the best moments to attack, and use a wide range of special abilities. This system is quite elaborate and allows you to utilize different strategies depending on the faction and available units. Also, the technologies and gear you have might affect the result of the battle.

The game hit the stores in August and already has its first large DLC called Revelations, which introduces another faction and two new campaigns.