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4X is a genre of strategy-based games in which players control an empire and "eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, and eXterminate". Emphasis is placed upon economic and technological development, as well as a range of non-military routes to supremacy. Games can take a long time to complete since the amount of micromanagement needed to sustain an empire increases as the empire grows.

Constructing and managing cities, towns, or settlements. City builder games typically involve zoning land, placing buildings, managing resources, and ensuring the wellbeing of citizens. Players balance factors like population growth, economy, infrastructure, and environment as they guide their city's development over time. Strategy and planning are key to succeeding.