So it is Monday and I am sure no one really has their “game face” on just yet, so what better way to break up the day then a puzzle styled game. I bring you right out of Ludum Dare 24 (LD24) yet another worthy title to make your day from Chris Kaitila (AKA McFunkyPants). Fantasy Map Tactics is the aforementioned developer’s title produced for LD24 and is a very interesting turn based strategy puzzler which he states is closer to Chess or a puzzle game, compared to Final Fantasy Tactics.

For me Fantasy Map Tactics did feel much closer to a puzzle game or Chess, which is great as I do love Chess. Fantasy Map Tactics did not disappoint as after getting to grips with the basic controls I was away and the premise is very simple, convert 15 cities to your cause to win over the populist vote on the kingdom. However no matter how basic the idea was the game itself did prove to be tricky at points having to evade the enemy units who track you units down relentlessly.

The graphics are nice, they are basic however functional and do not detract from the game at hand which is what you don’t want in a title like this. The stylings of the map makes it feel like you are a general surveying the lands and controlling units from a battle-map, setting a very fitting scene for the game.

The game did lack audio with only a small amount played at the start however this is often the feature that is cut in most titles developed in such a rushed setting as LD24. The overall game did feel very short and for me a little easy, which  I understand the issue on difficulty is subjective so it should not detract from anyone’s individual gameplay. Fantasy Map Tactics I feel showcases a great style of game that is not currently produced enough and has some really good concepts that could be taken and worked into a future full title.

I urge you all to give this game a brief go if you enjoy puzzle and turn based strategy games as this cuts to the heart of these genres. Fantasy Map Tactics can be played here,  Chirs Kaitila’s site can be found here and as always if you enjoy playing Fantasy Map Tactics please vote for it on Ludum Dare here.

If you are a developer with A fun indie game that can be played over a coffee break, we want to hear from you! Private message us on twitter @IndieGameMag or shoot us an email at editors@indiegamemag.com with the subject “Indie Intermission” and you could be our indie intermission pick of the day!

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