autoresolve

Autoresolve is a feature in strategy and wargames that automatically determines the outcome of a battle or conflict without the player directing individual units in real time. It is typically offered as an option for large-scale engagements or when the player wishes to skip tactical-level play, distinguishing it from manual, micro-managed combat.

Most autoresolve systems base the outcome on a combat model that factors unit statistics such as attack, defense, health, and range, along with modifiers like terrain, fortifications, supply, morale, fatigue, and leadership. Some implementations use a purely deterministic calculation, while others incorporate probabilistic elements or random variation to reflect uncertainty. Casualties, retreats, and territorial consequences may be derived from the model and shown to the player either before or after the outcome is determined. In many games, players can review or adjust the resulting losses and movements after the resolution.

Usage and variants: Autoresolve is common in 4X and grand-strategy games and appears in tactical games with large battles. Players can usually enable or disable the feature, or choose to autoresolve only when they are not actively monitoring a fight. Some titles allow partial autoresolve, resolving certain aspects of a battle while leaving others under direct control.

Pros and cons: Autoresolve offers speed, convenience, and the ability to manage many theaters of war. Its drawbacks include reduced tactical agency, potential misalignment with a player’s strategic goals, and outcomes that may feel arbitrary or unsatisfying if the model diverges from expected tactics.

Examples: The Total War series provides an auto-resolve option that calculates a battle outcome from army composition and terrain, while still permitting manual control for those who prefer direct command.