Puzzle Tactics (2017)

Developer: Robert Alvarez
Platforms: Windows, macOS
Genres: Indie, Strategy
Rating: 3.9 of 5, 33 player ratings
Typical playtime: about 2.3 hours
Where to get it: Steam

The 3D catalog: game boxes on wooden shelves, with the cat sitting at the counter next to its greeting.

The catalog in 3D

The same catalog has a room you can walk around in. The cat behind the counter is the AI Catbot, and they pick real games from it when you tell them what you feel like playing. Nothing is for sale, here or in there. Go in from here and this game is already out on the counter, with more like it waiting on the shelf next to it.

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How it feels

A methodical, minimalist turn-based tactics game where each small grid-based level requires careful unit placement and mouse-only control to outmaneuver and defeat the enemy team.

turn-basedgrid-basedtacticalminimalistcasualdifficultmouse-onlytop-down

What players say

Players describe it as a simple, short puzzle game with turn-based tactical mechanics, comparable to chess. Opinions split on whether it succeeds: some find it a decent cheap diversion, while others call it boring, poorly executed, and not worth even a dollar. Common complaints include a clunky interface, lack of keyboard support, and no narrative or progression.

Screenshots

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More by Robert Alvarez

This page is from Underplayed Gems, a catalog of older and overlooked games. Not quite it? You can browse by platform and genre, or take this one into the 3D catalog and ask the Catbot for something closer.