Rune 04 · Turn-based tactics · Subset Games, 2018
Into the Breach
Three mechs defend cities from giant bugs on tiny 8x8 maps. Every enemy move is shown in advance, so every turn is a perfect puzzle.
Edition reviewed: Into the Breach (2018).
Official artwork © Subset GamesWhat you do
Push, pull and block monsters on small grids to protect buildings, choosing pilots and upgrades across a short campaign.
Who it suits
Anyone who likes chess-like puzzles. Short runs are perfect for weeknights.
01The opening
The first battle shows the trick: you see exactly what every monster will do. You stop thinking about damage and start thinking about position.
02The midgame
Squads and pilots change your tools completely, and the puzzles get gloriously tight.
03Where to stop
Battles are tiny and islands are natural breaks. One island per session works well.
Why it works
- Perfect, readable tactics
- Short runs
- Great value
Watch out for
- Small in scope
- Can feel abstract
The score
Overall 4.8 out of 5 · Elder rune · how we score
Our verdict
Chess with mechs. Tiny, perfect and kind to your evenings.
Written by the Rune Hall desk. Updated 23 October 2026. Facts were checked against the publisher and store pages at that date; prices and platforms can change.