The best games with the 4x mechanism 2023

Looking for a really good game with 4x mechanism? Then we have just the thing for you: The list with the best 4X games 2023.

What are 4X (mechanism) games?

In this list you will find games, expansions, promos, etc. that use a 4X mechanism in gameplay, not just in pictures or the theme.

4X games are a growing family of games connected by 4 categories of gameplay, all of which are crucial elements of the game:

• eXplore
  Exploring the map with units, revealing the terrain of the area or something significant hidden in the area. What is uncovered will affect the game now and/or later.
• eXpand
  Expand the size of your territory by claiming areas on the map. Gaining or losing territory will affect the game.
• eXploit
  Exploit the occupied territories by improving them, gaining some/or using the territory to increase your units and/or power. These 3 things (improve, gain, and use) can happen in any order.
• eXterminate
  Eliminate other players with units (which can also be lost) from the game. It does not have to be very likely that a player can be eliminated from the game - only possible.

If it is impossible to eliminate a player from the game, but everything else (including combat) is like a 4X, the game is called a 3.5X.

The four Xs do not have to happen separately or one after the other.... they can be combined and happen at the same time. However, in a 4X game, all four Xs will enter.

Since all territories will eventually be claimed, attacking and/or eliminating the presence of a rival may be the only way to achieve further expansion.

List with the best games 2023, with 4x mechanism: