The solo-developed science-fiction strategy game centers on constructing outposts, managing resources, defending territory, and expanding across multiple planets.
Solo developer Voxelay has released the first official trailer for Virtualord, The Virtual Conqueror, an isometric strategy game combining turn-based combat with base building, resource management, tower defense, and RPG progression. The game is currently in alpha development and is planned for Windows and Linux in 2026.
Each mission begins with the construction of an operational base. Players must place structures, organize production, and capture generators located across the map.
These generators are connected to the settlement through a network of cells, making territorial expansion essential for maintaining the economy. Fog of war hides unexplored areas, requiring players to scout before extending their infrastructure or deploying forces.
Defensive structures include walls, gates, and automated towers. Towers attack nearby enemies at the beginning of the opposing turn, while gates allow allied units to move through fortified positions. Once the base is secure and production is established, players can recruit units and begin advancing toward enemy territory.
Direct Control and Autonomous Forces
Virtualord features two types of military forces. Standard units are controlled individually, allowing players to choose their movement, targets, and attacks. Smaller mini-units operate independently after receiving a destination, providing support without requiring direct commands each turn.
Actions are governed by an energy system. Individual units and structures have their own reserves, while the faction also shares a team-wide energy pool that is restored at the beginning of each turn.
Attacks display their energy cost and probability of hitting the selected target, adding an element of risk management to each decision.
Progression is handled through research centers, which convert resources into research points. These points can be spent on additional units, structures, and general upgrades for the base and army.
Missions include primary and secondary objectives. Completing the main goals allows players to finish the scenario, although they can remain on the map to pursue optional tasks and additional rewards.
Three factions have been introduced so far. The Zulox specialize in warfare, the Domens focus on engineering and scientific development, and the Alphen are explorers entering a larger interplanetary conflict.
The campaign is expected to extend beyond individual maps, with players conquering territories across several planets.
Development is ongoing, with recent work focused on tutorials, technology upgrades, interface improvements, and defensive management. Test builds are being distributed through the game’s Discord community, while a public demo is currently targeted for September 2026 on PC via Steam. Below is the announcement trailer.
