4X

4X is a style of strategy gaming based around the idea of the so called "four Xs" that the genre gets its name from: explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate.

4X games are known for their deeply complex and difficult gameplay involving extensive micromanagement of almost every aspect of building a large and interactive society, including resource gathering, advancement of technology, economic development, and competition and diplomatic relations between other players and/or computers. In regards to the "four Xs", the ultimate goal of the games is to explore the surrounding lands, expand your own territory, exploit the natural resources to keep your empire stable and functioning, and ultimately exterminate any existing foes.

The majority of 4X games are turn-based, although real-time games are not unheard of. Popular 4X games include Master of Orion II, Space Empires, and Sid Meier's Civilization.