
Critical Moves is a strategy games podcast that takes RTS, 4X, and tactics seriously. Most gaming podcasts don’t even bother with strategy games. We do. Each week we cover real-time strategy, turn-based tactics, 4X empire builders and indie experiments, plus shining a new light on old classics.
These aren't quick reviews or recycled talking points. It’s sharp criticism and honest discussion about ... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 104 | Founded | 2 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Video GamesLeisure | |||

Anyone can now build and release a strategy game, but is that good for the genre? Al is joined by Jack, Adam and Drexy to debate whether free engines, asset packs and crowdfunding are producing the next Manor Lords or just a flood of forgettable rele... more
Drexy is joined by Dastactic to talk to Elliot Gibbs of Code Force, the designer and programmer of Distant Worlds. They cover how the series began as a side project, the thinking behind its detailed resource and logistics simulation, and the rocky la... more
Al and Drexy talk to Dan, solo developer of Imperium, a spiritual successor to the 1995 cult classic Ascendancy. They cover the game's modular ship design, hybrid real-time/turn-based combat, 21 alien species, a rebuilt diplomacy system, and an hones... more
Critical Moves hits episode 100. To mark the milestone, Al is joined by regular co-hosts Drexy and Jack for a big debate on generative AI in game development, plus a special guest: Ben, known to many as Battlemode.
The panel gets into whether AI is... more
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Probably the best video game podcast around. Deserve a bigger audience
Thanks for doing these podcasts. I enjoy listening to a podcast with a focus on Strategy games.
Look forward to the episodes whether or not they cover games that I am currently playing. Always enjoyable with thoughtful and intelligent commentary.
Great and chill podcast!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Apple Podcasts | #146 | |
Apple Podcasts | #223 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Critical Moves regularly explores strategy games with a focus on design, mechanics, and thoughtful critique. Episodes balance developer interviews, industry context, and deep dives into RTS, 4X, and tactics, often featuring guests from indie studios and longstanding strategy communities. The show stands out for its willingness to argue tough points, connect design choices to player experience, and spotlight sustainability and modding as a core part of strategy gaming. Listeners are likely players who value systems, long-term strategy, and nuanced discussion beyond quick reviews, with a tendency to engage with indie development stories and community-driven content.
Potential listeners can expect rigorous conversations about game design, eng... more
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1. Single Malt Strategy
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4. The Ancients
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Critical Moves launched 2 years ago and published 104 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Critical Moves include:
1. Elliot Gibbs
2. Alejandro Nunez
3. Peter Perafilozof
4. Dr. Ben Angell
5. Thomas Vandenberg
6. Chris McElligott-Park
7. Joe Beard
8. Brandon Casteel
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.