3 – Espiocracy
Espiocracy has to be one of the games I’ve been most excited about for the last… 2 or 3 years, but it seems like it’s never coming out, with its release date being pushed back several times already, but at least we still have a 2025 release date. Published by Hooded Horse, this game is going to become – hopefully- a revolutionary grand strategy title; One that puts you in charge of a Cold War intelligence agency. Instead of leading a nation, you manipulate events from the shadows using a complex system of agents, propaganda, and covert operations. The game simulates a living world with thousands of historical characters, allowing you to rewrite history and influence global events without ever firing a shot. It is a landmark title that takes the grand strategy genre in a unique and thrilling new direction. I think we lack games that let things take their course and just have the player control a small subset of things. I love being a part of a greater plan and having to work within the framework of what is going on in the game. I wish this logic could be used in wargames too, but that’s a conversation for another time!
2 – Endless Legend 2
These last two entries were a toss-up, and they both deserve to be in the same top spot. However, being a historical enjoyer first, and fantasy second, I applied that same logic here and left the long-awaited sequel to the legendary fantasy 4X Endless Legend, Endless Legend 2, in the number 2 spot. The game is set to launch on September 22, 2025. Developed by Amplitude Studios and published by Hooded Horse, this game promises to redefine the genre with a revolutionary “Tidefall” mechanic where a constantly shifting world map changes as water levels recede to reveal new lands and resources. With wildly asymmetric factions, an overhauled tactical combat system, and a deep narrative, Endless Legend 2 is an essential wishlist item for anyone who craves an innovative and beautifully crafted strategy experience. I have actually played it, and I really enjoyed it, because it follows the very same principles as the 2014 classic: asymmetrical factions, unique winning mechanics for each faction, and a beautifully designed world.
1 – Europa Universalis V
Undoubtedly the most anticipated grand strategy game in the world, Europa Universalis V was officially revealed in May 2025 (even though rumours of its existence go much further back). Developed by Paradox Tinto, this ambitious sequel is poised to revolutionize the historical grand strategy genre by completely overhauling its core systems. The old “monarch points” are gone, replaced by a character-driven system, and the game now features a population (POPs) system, a detailed 3D map, and a more complex military. The game’s new start date is 1337, giving players even more time to shape the world, from the late Middle Ages to the Age of Revolution. While the release date is TBD, the game is already set to become the new flagship title for the entire genre, making it the definitive number 1 on any strategy fan’s wishlist. I know it’s certainly mine.
4X and Grand-Strategy Still Have a Lot To Give!
As we’ve seen, the future of grand-strategy and 4X games has never looked brighter, and Steam 4X Fest 2025 is another showcase of that exact sentiment. The list we’ve covered, from the historical depth of Gilded Destiny and Imperial Ambitions to the sci-fi innovation of Endless Legend 2 and Beyond Astra, proves that developers are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the genre. They are offering not just sequels, but fresh takes on classic formulas, deep simulations, and a stunning diversity of settings.
Support Strategy and Wargaming
I do what I do in Strategy and Wargaming because I love to do this, and I’m never going to stop. If you would like to support me with that, you can buy me a coffee for a dollar if you’re feeling generous. If you can’t, no worries, Strategy and Wargaming will always be free, and I’d love to have you around!
Leave a Reply