Age of Wonders II: The Wizard's Throne

The campaign has a good sense of progression: unlocking new spells, improving your spheres of magic and slowly turning your wizard into an absolute powerhouse is very satisfying.

There are enough axis of progression (heroes, cities, spells, map etc...) that the next goal is always just around the corner.

The art style, unit designs and music build a cozy, slightly old-school fantasy atmosphere that still works.

Tactical combat is fun and readable, with positioning, flying units, ranged support and spell timing all playing important roles.

AoW2 looks good, sounds decently good – with most of the work being done by the sound effects, because the music in this game is stupendously forgettable, and the voice-acting is either simply alright or a little bad – and presents itself, overall, in a good enough manner.