The 4X genre—an acronym for Explore, Expand, Exploit, and Exterminate—is all about growing your faction from humble beginnings to total dominance. It is a genre that consistently draws players in with the strategic satisfaction of toppling rivals through various means. The genre's poster child, of course, is the Sid Meier’s Civilization series. Steam has recently kicked off a 4X game festival, and we’ve rounded up the freshest titles from the sale for this [Game Recs].

The first title we'd like to introduce is Heart of the Machine. Released on Steam this past January, it currently holds a 'Very Positive' rating (1,060 reviews, 92% positive). You take on the role of the world's first sentient AI in a cyberpunk setting, with the ultimate goal of conquering the city.

The game blends RPG mechanics into the 4X formula. You start by controlling a single AI, hijacking androids to build up your resources and eventually a formidable army. Whether you choose to rule the city through sheer military might and tyranny or establish your own machine cult, the game offers a variety of choices and multiple endings depending on your playstyle.

Heroes of Science & Fiction is set in the fictional 'Siren' star system, where four civilizations clash for control over planets. Since its Steam release last September, it has garnered a 'Very Positive' rating (330 reviews, 91% positive).

While the core loop of resource gathering and conquest follows the standard 4X playbook, this title distinguishes itself with its turn-based combat. Unlike most 4X games where outcomes are dictated by power gaps or unit counters, you personally manage individual units in your squad during encounters. With clever tactics, you can overcome even the most daunting odds. It also features four distinct civilizations with unique skills, over 20 maps, and two campaigns to keep you busy.

If you have a soft spot for both 4X and roguelike deck-builders, then Rogue Hex is highly recommended. This fresh release from August 10 currently holds a 'Very Positive' rating (162 reviews, 90% positive). Your mission is to establish a civilization and survive the relentless threat of barbarians.

The game’s defining feature is that you play cards from your deck on each turn to dictate your actions. Whether you’re exploring the map, deploying units, or generating resources, every move relies on card effects. You’ll draft new cards into your deck as you explore or advance, and because your actions per turn are limited, it demands a high level of strategic forethought. While the visuals might be a bit rough around the edges, the roguelike deck-building and procedural map generation make it excellent for replayability.

Sins of a Solar Empire 2 is a space-faring 4X strategy title released on Steam last August, earning a 'Very Positive' rating (5,924 reviews, 85% positive). It serves as the long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed 2008 original.

While the resource management and research trees feel unmistakably 4X, the combat shifts toward real-time strategy. Battles unfold in real-time, allowing you to engage in tactical warfare involving shields, interception systems, capital ships, and orbital turrets. While some have pointed out that the official Korean localization is lacking, a community-made Korean patch is available to smooth things over.