Game of Thrones RTS Hands-On: A Feast for Base-Builders?

We went hands-on with Game of Thrones: War for Westeros, an RTS that's shaping up to be a base-builder's dream. Here's what we think so far.

Ever dreamed of raising your own Stark or Lannister stronghold, commanding armies, and forging alliances in the Seven Kingdoms? If so, Game of Thrones: War for Westeros might just be your next obsession. We recently got hands-on with the game, and it's already looking like a promising RTS for strategy fans.

The game, developed by PlaySide, is all about base-building and army management, and it scratches that itch for anyone who loves constructing and upgrading their own fantasy fortress. In our preview, we found the core loop satisfying: gather resources, build structures, train troops, and then send them off to battle. It's familiar RTS territory, but the Game of Thrones skin adds a layer of excitement for fans of the franchise.

However, there's still a lot we don't know. The game will feature three other launch factions besides the one we saw, but details on those, as well as the campaign mode and how larger matches will play out, remain as mysterious as the release date for The Winds of Winter. We're left with questions about the full scope of the game, but what we've seen so far is solid.

For players who have been hungry for a new base-building RTS, War for Westeros looks like it could deliver quite the feast. The gameplay we experienced was engaging, and the potential for deep strategy is there. The challenge will be in how well the game balances different factions and keeps matches exciting beyond the initial build-up.

Will it be a worthy addition to the Game of Thrones gaming universe, or will it be another forgettable licensed title? Based on our first look, there's reason to be hopeful. The foundation is strong, and if PlaySide can flesh out the remaining factions and modes with the same care, this could be a must-play for strategy fans.

What are your thoughts? Are you excited about a Game of Thrones RTS, or are you waiting to see more? Let us know in the comments below!