TOHOTOPIA — is a turn-based strategy game about conquering Gensokyo, where familiar Touhou heroines manage their own empires and divide territory among themselves. Players must explore the map through the fog of war, expand their borders, build cities, and decide who to temporarily ally with and who to eliminate outright before the neighboring empire grows too large. Everything moves quickly, without long, half-day-long games, so almost every decision feels important within the first few minutes.
The map quickly turns into a constant struggle for territory.
There are few empty spaces, and neighboring empires are constantly trying to occupy favorable squares before you. This forces you to not only build cities, but also monitor how the map is developing around you. Sometimes it's more advantageous to rush forward and cut off the enemy's resources, while other times it's better to quietly fortify your position and wait for the right moment to wage war. Alliances don't last long here either, because towards the end of the game, everyone wants a single winner.
Scarlet Empire, Moriya Empire, Komeiji Empire, and Houraisan Empire play differently due to their unique features, heroes, and technologies. Some are quicker at capturing the map, while others thrive in protracted skirmishes. Due to the short game format, the differences between the factions become apparent almost immediately, rather than after several hours, as in grand strategy games.