4X

4X refers to the genre of strategy games which deal with building an empire, with four primary goals: To explore, to expand, to exploit and to exterminate. A 4x game can be turn-based or real-time, but there are many strategy games that do not follow the 4x formula.

A well known example of this genre is Sid Meier's Civilization.

4x

4X stands for the goals of :

eXplore
eXpand
eXploit
eXterminate

Explore refers to the fact that the player starts out with limited knowledge of the playing area or map. This can be reflected either by large areas of the map that are completely obscured, or some features may be visible with limited information (for example, the stars in Master of Orion).

Expand refers to the need for the player to expand the territory under their control. This can be by creating new settlements or expanding the area under control of existing settlements.

Exploit refers to the ability of the player to use the resources within their territory, and to improve the efficiency of that usage.

Exterminate refers to attacking a rival player, pushing back their territorial expansion and hindering their ability to exploit resources within that territory. Beyond the cost to the rival, there is often an additional tangible benefit to the attacker, usually in the form of conquered territory and loot.

The primary victory condition of this game type is a natural consequence of exterminating all rival civilizations. However, this often leads to prolonged stalemates where no extermination is possible. For this reason, most 4X games offer secondary victory conditions. The most direct secondary victories usually end the competition after a time limit or an insurmountable lead, thus awarding victory to the dominant player.

Occasionally, secondary victory conditions are designed to reward the player who sufficiently exploits the resources within their territory, thus giving victory to the player with the strongest economy. (For example, winning the space race in Civilization.)

Some argue that a fifth X can be added for eXperience. This might refer to a growth in the player's strength with time and investment. (For example, new abilities unlocked by research or upgrades.)

Setting

Depending on the setting, the empire can take a variety of forms. The most common settings are Earth or an Earth-like planet (as in Civilization), a fantasy realm (as in Master of Magic) or a galactic empire (numerous examples listed below).

History

The first 4x computer game is arguably Sid Meier's Civilization. However, the lineage of 4x games can be traced back to board games (such as the Civilization board game of the same name).