4X is a subgenre of strategy-based computer and board games, and includes both turn-based and real-time strategy titles. Games such as the Civilization series, Endless Space, Master of Orion etc all come under the 4X roof. This subgenre holds a massive community consisting of both new comers and long time players alike. A popular gaming website by the name eXplorminate was an integral part of this community. It helped players by providing them with news, strategy and tactics for 4X games.
Sadly, today is the last day we’ve heard from this website as it’s founder, Rob Honaker is shutting down eXplorminate. Rob laid out his reasons on his recent post on the official website as well as the 4Xgaming subreddit.
It is with deep regret that I announce that eXplorminate is shutting down. We’ve been here for the past seven years, trying to provide the 4X genre with a platform with strong, intelligent, and informed voices, but alas, 2020 will claim yet another victim.
Truth be told, it’s mainly been me, Rob, trying to keep things together after nearly everyone left last year, for a variety of reasons. Our momentum really picked up, I think, but I can’t keep constantly looking for replacements, volunteers, and help.
And we’re not remotely financially capable of going full-time with this, so this is the line, unfortunately.
2020 has been an awful year for all of us, but it has caused me to reflect on what’s most important and the rewards aren’t worth the sacrifice to me, anymore.
Thank you all for being a part of this amazing community. The site might be going away, but the Steam community and Discord will remain open. Hope to see you there.
I’ll just be out there, living life, making sure to spend all the time I have with my wife and kiddos.
Until the next time, friends
Keep eXploring…
The website has severed it’s faithful viewers for over 7 years but it seems it’s time for eXplorminate to shut down for good. Many people are a little pain stricken and hope the website doesn’t fully shutdown.
Instead, it stays in an archival state for a possible future return. However, founder Rob has clearly stated that this won’t be a possibility for a couple of years at least.
Although the website will go down, Rob will be posting more content on Reddit from now alone.
