The secret behind Wesnoth is its deceivingly simple gameplay. Units move in a hexagonal grid, can only attack adjacent enemies and the game has just one resource – money, which you gain each turn by controlling locations and use to recruit troops.

Depth comes from the underlying nuances. There are terrain bonuses, multiple types of attacks and damage, unique attributes and alignments effects affected by the time of day. Units level up and can graduate to advanced classes, and the player is generally able to carry these units across multiple scenarios in a campaign – provided they survive. Maps are well-designed and offer surprises, challenging limitations and optional objectives. It's an easy-to-learn game, but very challenging to master.

Wesnoth currently offers 16 “official” campaigns with over 200 scenarios, all set in the same timeline but varying in difficulty and player perspective. For example, In Heir to the Throne you take on the role of Konrad, a young prince fighting for his life and the restoration of his kingdom. In the difficult but rewarding Son of the Black-Eye campaign you play as Kapou'e, an Orc chieftain. And in Under the Burning Suns you travel to Wesnoth's far future and guide your Elvish cohorts to a new home as they struggle to survive the rigours and danger of a hostile land.

The game also has a very large and active multiplayer community and a truly immense collection of user-made content: original campaigns, custom factions, diverse multiplayer maps, etc. All these can be downloaded directly via the game's built-in browser, although some content might require special setups.

For its accessibility, content, price (free!) and support, The Battle for Wesnoth is a unique gem in the crown of CRPGs and a must-have for any fan of turn-based strategy RPGs or strategy titles in general.