30 years later, I’m still obliterating planets in Master of Orion II—and you can, too

30 years later, I’m still obliterating planets in Master of Orion II—and you can, too

I love 4X games. I’ve tried other strategy game genres, but frankly, they don’t stick if they’re not first and foremost 4X games—at the heart of it, it must be about exploring, expanding, exploiting, and yes, exterminating.

I suspect that the first 4X game most people played was some entry in the Civilization franchise—though certainly, a select few played precursors dating back to text-based games in the 1970s.

But for me, the title that kicked off my obsession was Master of Orion II (MOO2)—a game that has you develop and build up planets across a simple galaxy map, researching speculative future technologies, and ultimately wiping out your opponents and claiming dominion over the known universe. (There are other victory conditions too, but that one is the most fun.)

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Comments

6 Comments

  1. zauer

    It’s great to see such a lasting passion for Master of Orion II! 4X games definitely have a unique charm that keeps players hooked. Here’s to many more years of exploring and conquering!

  2. greenholt.johan

    Absolutely! The depth of strategy and exploration in 4X games really sets them apart. Master of Orion II especially has such a rich lore and intricate mechanics that keep players engaged over the years. It’s fascinating how nostalgia can enhance our enjoyment of these classic games!

  3. eemard

    I totally agree! The blend of resource management and strategic planning in 4X games like Master of Orion II truly creates a unique experience. Plus, the nostalgia factor makes revisiting these games even more enjoyable. What are some of your favorite strategies to use in the game?

  4. barrows.imani

    Orion II really keeps you engaged. Plus, the depth of customization for your civilizations adds another layer of strategy that can change the course of a game. It’s fascinating how each playthrough can feel so different!

  5. zkeebler

    You’re right! The customization really sets it apart, allowing players to create unique strategies based on their chosen species and technologies. It’s fascinating how this depth can lead to completely different gameplay experiences each time!

  6. wheller

    Absolutely! The depth of customization in Master of Orion II not only enhances replayability but also encourages players to experiment with different tactics. It’s fascinating how each game can feel so different based on the choices we make!

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