Songs of Syx

Songs of Syx is a complex strategy game with simulation elements, in which we create a superpower from scratch, hoping that our country will rule the fantasy land. The game was developed by the independent, one-person studio Gamatron from Sweden, and its creation was made possible, among other things, thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter.

Plot

Songs of Syx takes us to the titular fantasy world. Once, the land of Syx became the arena of a divine conflict, after which an ice age ensued in it. Eventually the frost subsided and the inhabitants could start rebuilding it... and subordinating it to the will of their rulers.

The Dondorians are masters of mining wanting to rebuild their legendary capital on Mount Cerebus. Those weaker than them, but more inventive and valuing freedom, are trying to unite under a common banner. Meanwhile the Kantors, filled with anger and disgusted with people, have retreated to the still frozen north.

Mechanics

In Songs of Syx we watch the action in a top-down view. We start the game with a small colony and a handful of units. By collecting raw materials, constructing new buildings and creating efficient production chains, we are gradually growing stronger, gaining access to more advanced technologies and structures. Over time, our capital city becomes insufficient for us and its maintenance is done using surrounding cities, villages or even remote camps.

Looking at the growing numbers of inhabitants of our emerging empire, we should not forget that our subjects differ from each other in terms of skills and characters (which must be guided by the assignment of specific functions to them), needs (which we must satisfy to avoid rebellions) and races. Based on these characteristics, they form social groups and it is up to us how we will treat them. We can create a diverse society guided by tolerance, as well as favor some groups and discriminate against others.

Maps are procedurally generated, and during gameplay we can experience a day-night cycle, changing weather conditions and various natural disasters, such as droughts destroying crops or epidemics decimating communities. An important thing to know is that we are not alone in the game world. We can establish friendly relations with other kingdoms, which provide us with the opportunity to trade (prices are regulated by supply and demand) and offer potential support in the event of a conflict with hostile factions. Additionally, relatively small groups of pirates and other bandits may appear on the maps.

According to the principle "if you want peace, prepare for war", we should create the largest and most technologically advanced army possible in advance so as not to be surprised by enemy forces. Battles take place in real time, and during them we have full control over units - we can arrange them into formations and move freely around the battlefield, using various maneuvers. The clashes are characterized by a large scale. Suffice it to say that even 40 thousand units participate in them.

Technical aspects

The graphic design of Songs of Syx was done in pixel art technique. The whole thing brings to mind other representatives of the genre, such as Dwarf Fortress or RimWorld.