RT4X

Sins of a Solar Empire (2006), Seamless Empire and Tactical modes

RT4X is a sub-genre of Real-time Strategy(RTS) computer games. It is characterised by real-time (strategic) components and real-time 4X (empire building) components on an epic scale. The term RT4X may be regarded by some as a refinement or evolution of the RTS genre rather than a distinct sub-genre.

Contents

1 Defining Features

1.1 Real-Time
1.2 Strategic and Tactical Gameplay
1.3 Multiplayer
1.4 Grand Scale

2 History
3 The future
4 See also
5 References
6 External links

Defining Features

Real-Time

RT4X games do not contain any turn based elements. Players control units, explore, gather resources/exploit, build bases/expand their empire, research technologies, and conduct combat/exterminate opponents as game time progresses.

Strategic and Tactical Gameplay

RT4X titles provide a seamless transition between strategic and tactical controls. For example, players are able to explore an area from afar, zoom in to conduct a battle, then zoom back out to expand their empire. Traditionally these states were separated with two distinct interfaces: 1) map mode and 2) combat mode.

Multiplayer

RT4X games are expected to maintain the real-time strategic and real-time 4X components in multiplayer. Traditionally, RTS - 4X hybrid games do not contain a multiplayer option or restrict it to combat or “skirmish” mode.

Grand Scale

An RT4X title is expected to feature a massive number or units (armies,fleets,creatures,etc.) but this is not a defining criteria. Although there may be some micromanagement, the emphasis of an RT4X title is balancing strategic and tactical decisions. For example you may need to wear the 'Emperor' hat to plan out your empire, and the ‘Commander’ hat to assign tactical orders in an important battle.

History

The "RT4X" sub-genre was coined by game designer Blair Fraser of "Ironclad Games".http://zestgames.com/?p=97http://news.talkstrategy.com/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=877 It is difficult to determine whether or not a true RT4X game has been released because the sub-genre is still in its infancy and the criteria for inclusion has yet to be clearly defined. Imperium Galactica, made by Digital Reality in 1997, may possibly be the first RT4X title. The lack of certainty lies in the fact that the game has turn-based elements. RT4X or not, Imperium was able to consolidate real-time strategic and tactical aspects into one game, setting the stage for further progression. Imperium Galactica II has been classified as a 4X Strategy, but may also be considered the first true RT4X. It is unknown whether or not there are other computer or video games currently on the market that would classify as RT4X.

The future

The RT4X sub-genre is expected to reduce the micromanagement flaw plaguing the RTS genre. Ironclad's Sins of a Solar Empire, is the only known RT4X title due for release in 2006. Gas Powered Game's Supreme Commander, expected in 2007 may also fall under the RT4X flag, although it is uncertain to what degree the game will focus on 4X aspects. RT4X as a classification is unlikely to branch into its own Genre. It seems more likely that RTS games will continue to absorb 4X elements and slowly evolve under the ‘RTS’ umbrella.

References

External links

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