Military Madness (Nectaris)

A hexagonal grid, two armies and a planet where war is waged for survival — Military Madness, known in Japan as Nectaris, is proof that turn-based strategy doesn't have to be dry to be smart. On a console that most people associate with fast shooters and platformers, it feels like a surprisingly deep brain workout.

The story sets the conflict on the Moon, where an Earth alliance stands against the hostile Guni faction. But the plot here is more of a backdrop — the core is pure tactics. Across hexagonal maps you move units from infantry through tanks to aerial machines, using the terrain for cover and above all minding zone support: a unit surrounded by allies fights markedly stronger. This mechanic turns every battle into a small spatial puzzle.

What sets Military Madness apart from more cumbersome strategies is the elegance of its rules. It doesn't overwhelm you with hundreds of statistics or economy management — instead you mine factories for reinforcements and focus on maneuvering and anticipating your opponent's moves. It's accessible on the first playthrough, but deep enough that even after dozens of maps you'll be discovering new tricks.

For the PC Engine it was one of the few seriously intended strategy titles, and it built its reputation precisely for that reason. The game saw ports and remakes in various forms across generations, which testifies to the timelessness of its design — a good tactical system simply doesn't age as fast as graphics.

If you enjoy thinking your moves out in advance and searching for the one right sequence that crushes your opponent with minimal losses, Military Madness will hook you. It's calm, focused fun for those who give priority to the head over reflexes.

Why play: An elegant hexagonal turn-based strategy where position and the mutual support of units decide — smart strategy that hasn't aged.