Fantasy General II: Reviving a strategy game for a modern audience

Released in September by recently founded developer Owned by Gravity, Fantasy General II is equal parts sequel and homage to the original 1996 game from the since defunct Strategic Simulations, Inc. (SSI). It’s a unique, narrative-driven modern spin on the turn-based strategy game genre, where every choice you make has consequential knock-on effects throughout the remainder of the game’s campaign.

Much like its predecessor, Fantasy General II is a hex-based game in a fantasy setting. This time around, you play as the Viking Falirson, on a mission to unite — by force, if necessary — the various tribes and attack an assertive, distant Empire. It improves upon the classic war game experience from Fantasy General, layering it with new mechanics and more complex decision making opportunities, but largely staying respectful of the franchise’s successful roots.