70
The Battle of Polytopia offers simple and straightforward gameplay mechanics that are easy to grasp. This makes it a great choice for anyone who is new to the 4X gaming genre and looking for a relaxed introduction. While the lack of distinct personalities for the different leaders makes the game feel a bit bland–with no extra incentive to attack anyone who isn't nearby–the art and music are enjoyable, if somewhat simple. That said, for those who have already delved deeply into this type of game, it may not hold their attention for long.
70
Despite this issue we’d recommend this for any Switch players looking for a new strategy title – it’s well presented and can be endlessly addictive. You just may want to quickly check it out on your smartphone before taking the plunge on this iteration.
73
The Battle of Polytopia’s streamlining of 4X strategy makes things accessible, but also limits the kind of variability that makes campaigns enjoyable across multiple plays.
8
At first, I was reluctant to get this one due to its, uh, particular looks. I'm glad I finally did. The Battle of Polytopia plays much like a modern (euro) board game. It hits a sweet spot in terms of complexity, where planning and management do not undermine straightforward fun, while still providing enough room for strategic thinking. Now, I wouldn't call this game 'simple' -- if anything, 'less complex' than your standard 4X. Sure, it is fairly easy to jump into the game, but it has rule exceptions and a few counterintuitive aspects. This leads to my main concern with the game: the tutorial is extremely poor and there is no in-game guide. Otherwise, a competent civ-lite that plays great in multiplayer mode locally. My score: 7,5.
10
The Battle of Polytopia is a charming strategy game that is easy to learn and hard to master. It has a nice community and some very entertaining lore. In also has consistant support despite existing for well over a decade. This game is amazing on portable tech like mobile and switch especially, and has got me through multiple international flights and road trips :)
7
I don't know what you want me to say it's strategy game with cube men what else is there to say
The Battle of Polytopia
Released On:
Oct 12, 2022
Metascore
Mixed or Average
72
User score
Generally Favorable
8.2
My Score
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Metascore
Mixed or Average
43% Positive
3 Reviews
3 Reviews
57% Mixed
4 Reviews
4 Reviews
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
Nov 7, 2022
80
The Battle of Polytopia is a fun game about expanding your own empire. The cute graphics and varied options provide an entertaining and welcome addition to the Nintendo Switch library.
Oct 25, 2022
80
If you’re looking for a polished and good introduction to 4X games, The Battle of Polytopia is more than worth it. If you, like me, weren’t sure how The Battle of Polytopia would play with a controller, download the free demo to see how you find the UI. The developers have done a good job with the scaling across docked and handheld, and having full touchscreen support for handheld meant I had a much easier time moving to Switch.
User score
Generally Favorable
76% Positive
19 Ratings
19 Ratings
16% Mixed
4 Ratings
4 Ratings
8% Negative
2 Ratings
2 Ratings
Jun 22, 2025
10
The Battle of Polytopia is a charming strategy game that is easy to learn and hard to master. It has a nice community and some very entertaining lore. In also has consistant support despite existing for well over a decade. This game is amazing on portable tech like mobile and switch especially, and has got me through multiple international flights and road trips :)
Dec 15, 2025
8
At first, I was reluctant to get this one due to its, uh, particular looks. I'm glad I finally did. The Battle of Polytopia plays much like a modern (euro) board game. It hits a sweet spot in terms of complexity, where planning and management do not undermine straightforward fun, while still providing enough room for strategic thinking. Now, I wouldn't call this game 'simple' -- if anything, 'less complex' than your standard 4X. Sure, it is fairly easy to jump into the game, but it has rule exceptions and a few counterintuitive aspects. This leads to my main concern with the game: the tutorial is extremely poor and there is no in-game guide. Otherwise, a competent civ-lite that plays great in multiplayer mode locally. My score: 7,5.
Nov 4, 2022
75
This is a fun, punchy title that scratches that 4X itch. It may not bring much new to the table, but it clearly designed by veteran developers with a good eye for what makes the genre work. As a simple exercise in strategy, it provides just enough complexity to be worth learning, but never takes things too far. It's bright and cheery aesthetic makes for some easy, casual play that you can come back to time and time again.
Nov 9, 2022
73
The Battle of Polytopia’s streamlining of 4X strategy makes things accessible, but also limits the kind of variability that makes campaigns enjoyable across multiple plays.
Mar 15, 2023
70
The Battle of Polytopia offers simple and straightforward gameplay mechanics that are easy to grasp. This makes it a great choice for anyone who is new to the 4X gaming genre and looking for a relaxed introduction. While the lack of distinct personalities for the different leaders makes the game feel a bit bland–with no extra incentive to attack anyone who isn't nearby–the art and music are enjoyable, if somewhat simple. That said, for those who have already delved deeply into this type of game, it may not hold their attention for long.
Jan 3, 2023
70
Despite this issue we’d recommend this for any Switch players looking for a new strategy title – it’s well presented and can be endlessly addictive. You just may want to quickly check it out on your smartphone before taking the plunge on this iteration.
Oct 13, 2022
60
If you’re new to 4X games, we could see this being a gentle introduction to an often-overwhelming genre. There is certainly enough content here to get new players interested, though for returning veterans it will probably not scratch that itch for more than a handful of hours. For them, The Battle of Polytopia will be a brief distraction and very little else.
May 8, 2024
7
I don't know what you want me to say it's strategy game with cube men what else is there to say
SummaryWelcome to the unique turn-based strategy game set in the strange, flat world of the Square. Lead one of 12 distinct civilizations to victory by expanding your empire, researching technologies and ultimately become ruler of the world! Play in single-player or multiplayer mode for up to 15 players.
Rated E +10for Everyone +10
