Critical Moves Podcast

Critical Moves is a strategy gaming podcast. Each week an eclectic group of gamers come together to discuss the latest in the world of strategy games, from recent releases to classic titles. We dive into everything, exploring game mechanics, tactics and strategies, and emerging trends in strategy videogames. We explore the intricacies of 4X games, the intensity of real-time strategy and the precision of turn-based tactical masterpieces.

As a diverse group you can expect to hear diverse opinions. Each host has a preferred style of games and a unique insight into gaming. No-one claims to be an expert, but we’re dedicated players who love digging into the details, sharing our experiences, and learning along the way. We won’t agree all the time – and wouldn’t it be boring if we did? Our discussions are fuelled by a shared enthusiasm for strategy games and a genuine curiosity about what makes them tick.

So join us every week to hear what hot topics have crossed our desk, and don’t forget to get involved. Join our Discord server or subreddit to speak with the team behind Critical Moves. Share your opinions on strategy games and maybe they will be featured in a future episode, or just tell us we suck.

Be sure to check out our social media accounts too. Remember that liking, commenting, sharing and subscribing not only pleases the algorithm gods but also helps get the word out about us.

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In Episode 3 of Critical Moves, we dive into the ongoing debate between fun and realism in strategy games. We discuss how different games navigate this balance, what each approach brings to the table, and how it shapes the player experience.

Games covered include:

• Realism-focused titles like War in the Pacific, Victoria 3, Crusader Kings, King's Order, and Terra Invicta that push for historical or technical accuracy, offering complex, immersive simulations.
• Fun-centric games like Heroes of Might and Magic, Rome: Total War, and Command & Conquer Generals, which focus on exciting gameplay mechanics over strict realism.

We discuss the pros and cons of each approach, why some players love hyper-realistic details while others prefer a streamlined experience, and the challenges developers face in finding a balance. Expect a lively conversation, some rants, and our own takes on what makes a strategy game truly memorable.

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The RTS Renaissance: Is It Really Happening?

In Episode 2 of Critical Moves, we explore the resurgence of real-time strategy games and whether we’re truly in the middle of an RTS renaissance. We discuss how modern RTS titles revitalized the genre and attracted new players and why indie developers are the salvation of real-time strategy.

Key topics include:

• The evolving mechanics and visuals that have made these newer games stand out.
• How indie developers are keeping the genre alive with fresh ideas.
• Whether nostalgia for classic RTS games plays a role in the resurgence, or if there’s a real innovation driving the trend.

We also debate if this uptick is a passing moment or the start of a new golden age for RTS games. As always, expect some differing opinions, a few rants, and a deep dive into what makes RTS games still relevant today.

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Strategy Game Remasters: Are They Worth It?

In this episode of Critical Moves, we dive into the world of strategy game remasters. We break down how these re-releases breathe new life into classic games and discuss whether they hold up against their original versions.

Key topics include:

• What makes a good remaster and where some fall short.
• Examples like Command & Conquer Remastered and Age of Empires: Definitive Edition—whether they’re just nostalgia plays or genuinely modernized for today’s audience.
• Our thoughts on which strategy games we’d like to see remastered next and how developers are responding to fan demand.

We also cover how remasters can help introduce a new generation to the classics while still satisfying long-time fans of the genre. As usual, we throw in a few rants, differing perspectives, and some strong opinions on remasters versus original releases.

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