Retro dark fantasy turn-based strategy game
Zero Orders Tactics is a premium strategy game for PC by developer Pauloondra. It is a strategic fantasy-themed puzzle experience featuring tactical turn-based combat. In it, players take on the role of a god who transforms and shapes the battlefield to create unique battle situations and scenarios.
Similar to games like EcoGnomix and Endless Legend, encounters in Zero Order Tactics transpire on hex grid battlefields. However, instead of controlling troops, players will change the terrain and unit classes in unique ways. The result is essentially a cross between an auto-battler and a tactical experience that gives you more control.
Shape the battlefield
In a nutshell, Zero Orders Tactics is what you get when you combine tactical turn-based strategy gameplay with God game mechanics that let you control the flow of battle on a larger scale but in a more subtle, indirect way. You can assign different units on the ground, but you have no direct control over their actions and how they will fight.
Instead, you will form the terrain beneath their feet, which also influences how they move on the grid with their own pathfinding rules and how they fight. You can also alter their unit class type on the fly as you consider enemy match-ups to give them an edge in battle. This unique mechanic allows you to take on different situations in unique, free-style ways.
The game also incorporates deck-building mechanics to collect different terrain cards to build your hand, as well as unlockable heroes with distinct abilities to use on the battlefield. Suffice it to say, Zero Orders Tactics offers a gameplay experience that is full of depth and that comes at the cost of a moderate learning curve. Also, in its current state, there's not much in the way of gameplay content.
A compelling twist to the sub-genre
In summary, Zero Orders Tactics offers a compelling gameplay experience that seamlessly combines the fun mechanics of god games with the tactical depth and complexity of turn-based strategy battles. You have to do a bit of learning to understand its mechanics, but it's worth the effort for the varied and engaging ways you can approach encounters. Give it a try and see for yourself.
