This is Niche Spotlight. In this column, we regularly introduce new games to our fans, so please leave feedback and let us know if there’s a game you want us to cover!

Today’s Spotlight is Jon Shafer’s At the Gates, a new 4X strategy game by Conifer Games. The game was created by Jon Shafer, the designer of Civilization 5.

You play as a budding warlord during the Dark Ages that is eager to replace the crumbling Roman Empire. Rally clans under your banner, each of which have different traits and aspirations. Gather resources, claim territory, and expand to become a major economic and military power. You can check out a trailer above.

One of the game’s big draws is how the map changes from season to season. A river might be a helpful defensive barrier in the summer, but turn into an icy bridge during the winter. Preparing for the different seasons plays a big role in the game as well, meaning that you’ll need to stockpile enough resources to sustain your people through the winter.

Jon Shafer’s At the Gates is available on Windows PC, Mac, and Linux via Steam for $29.99.

Here’s a rundown of the game:

At the Gates is a 4X grand strategy game from Jon Shafer, designer of Civilization 5.

You are a Dark Age lord. Your destiny is to build a kingdom in the shadow of the crumbling Roman Empire. Explore the dangerous landscape around you, harvest its resources, and build a mighty economic and military machine. Your clans have their own personalities and desires, so carefully consider how you use them.

It won’t be easy. Your path is unsure. Overcome your immensely strong neighbors. Outlast the frigid winters of the far north to discover a source of gold and vast riches.

Are you the leader who will usher in a new era of European history? Or will you be forgotten?

Key Features:

• An Evolving Map – Seasons and weather dramatically transform the landscape around you. The river that once served as a barrier in the summer might become a highway in the winter – for both you and your enemies!
• Character Management – Each of your clans has unique traits and desires, so choose carefully how you use them.
• Survival & Roguelike Elements – Keep your clans fed through the harsh winter. Resources run out so always be hunting for more. Your neighbors can be immensely strong. Every game poses new challenges and opportunities.
• Watercolor Art Style – A beautiful watercolor landscape serves as the canvas for your clever economic and military strategies.
• Tooltips-in-Tooltips! – AtG features a revolutionary user interface which utilizes “tooltips-in-tooltips” for the very first time, making it far easier to learn without sacrificing any gameplay depth.

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