Lux Delux

Maybe They Should Call it "Risk Plus Plus"

Just about everyone who's a gamer has spent a lot of time hurling dice about and conquering the world in the classic game of Risk--and many of us have spent a lot of time playing it solitaire in one digital implementation or another, because it's a quick, fun way to kill fifteen minutes before your next meeting or the like. But when you come down to it, the problem with Risk in a soloplay environment, particularly, is that it's the same thing all over again. Same board, same AIs--and it does pall after a time.

That's the genius of Lux Delux. The game itself comes with a whole slew of different maps--along with a pretty decent random map generator. It also comes with a bunch of different AI "personalities" who play quite differently. And there's a "plugin manager" that allows you to download literally hundreds of fan-created maps from Sillysoft...as well as a map editor that lets you create your own. Plus, for coders, there's an SDK that allows you to create new AIs or random map generators.

In other words, if you like the basic gameplay, and want virtually infinite variety, Lux Delux supplies it--in a nicely implemented game with pretty visuals and decent sound. It's no surprise that the game was an Independent Games Festival finalist.

The Developer Says:

Lux Delux is a game of strategy and domination inspired by the board game Risk. Control your armies to conquer and hold strategic countries on the map. The object of the game is simple: Take over the entire world!

Easy Network Play
Joining an online multiplayer game is as easy as 2 clicks - no need to muck about with IP addresses. Hosting an internet-wide game is just as simple. Now is the perfect time to start climbing the world wide rankings.

Challenging Artificial Intelligence
If you want to play solo, Lux comes with 11 different computer opponents. They start at easy and go all the way to hard (with a capital HARD). Lux provides a strong matchup even for experienced Risk game players.

Strong User Base
Lux has an active user community. The regulars can be found hanging around in the forums and playing multiplayer games online. Come and join the party.

Plugin Madness
Lux comes with support for a wide variety of plugins. Anybody can make a map and add it to the Plugin Manager. Programmers can create an AI or a random map generator using the SDKs provided by Sillysoft.

Unlimited Fun
Lux comes with a free 20 game trial period. The cost to buy the full version is $24.95 US. Full registration comes with unlimited gameplay, all of the maps, and inclusion in the online rankings. Register now securely and you will receive full access instantly.

Reviews

"This is the best computer implementation of a Risk style game that I have ever played." The Independent Gaming Source

"[I] dig it muchly...."
   - Drunken Blog

"Don’t hesitate to shell out the $25 for Lux: it’s half the price for more than double the fun... 7 out of 8."
   - Out of Eight PC Game Reviews

"Best of all, Lux has a huge following, so it's never very difficult to find an human opponent or three somewhere on the Internet."
   - GameSpy

"You're supporting a good cause - underground, independent, non-affiliated gamers dedicated to making good games, hoping good money will follow. They deserve your support."
   - ESCmag

"If you liked the board game, you'll love this!"
   - Bytten

Awards

Finalist, 2005 IGF

2005 Best AI award in the Bytten Ernie's