Here's a strategy game packed with up-and-coming talent: Latropolis. You take command of a small colony of rats trying to escape the ravages of the old city and build a new one. You play as one of six leaders, each with unique powers and abilities, and you must survive waves of enemies.

This is a pretty standard defense/survival strategy game concept... Manipulated with cards, Ratropolis proudly wears its inspiration on its sleeve." What if there was a game that combined two of our favorite games?" Several students asked.

Thus, Ratropolis was born: a game that proudly combines "Kingdom" and "Slay the Spire". I was very pleased with the result, because it is rare that a game that is a clear mash-up is this good. The game has great mechanic interaction, and the real-time deck-building element serves as a cool layer to fine-tune. What is the value of drawing a new hand faster or increasing your hand size? How can you manipulate your deck as your needs evolve? While "Slay the Spire" and similar deckbuilders can agonize over the best choices for as long as they want, this game is more frantic and tactical.

Ratropolis is available on Steam for $15.