turnbased

Turn-based describes systems in which actions occur in discrete units called turns, with participants acting one after another rather than simultaneously. The order of turns may be fixed, cyclical, or determined by statistics such as initiative or speed. This contrasts with real-time systems, where actions unfold continuously and without mandatory pauses.

In gaming, turn-based formats are common across strategy, role-playing, and board-game adaptations. Turn-based strategy games emphasize long-term planning on a broad map; turn-based tactics focus on tactical combat on grids or hexes; turn-based RPGs present battles through selectable actions in a menu. Some titles blend simultaneous turns or pausable real-time elements.

Core mechanics include turn order management, limited action economy per turn, movement points or action points, cooldowns, and environmental effects that influence decisions. Clocks or timers may regulate turns in online play to prevent stalling. The pacing tends to reward planning and optimization over reflex speed.

Turn-based roots lie in traditional board games such as chess, and they migrated to computers and consoles with early strategy and role-playing titles. Notable modern examples include Civilization, X-COM, and Fire Emblem, among others. The design space also includes variations like the active-time battle system, where turns are influenced by character speed during an otherwise ongoing action.

Advantages of turn-based gameplay include accessible pacing, clearer decision-making, and emphasis on strategy. Disadvantages can be slower progression, potential stagnation, and risk of repetitive sequences if mechanics are not well balanced. Hybrid approaches, such as pauseable real-time systems, attempt to combine the strengths of both styles.