Deal | Now free on Steam: New strategy game is available for no cost before moving to paid status
Steam users can grab a new turn-based strategy title, Oil Sheik, completely free. It's an indie game, freshly launched on July 24, 2025, and has elements of simulation, puzzle, and stock trading elements - think a mix of chess puzzles and economic maneuvering. This limited-time free offer makes Oil Sheik worth a look, especially for fans of tabletop and puzzle strategy games.
Oil Sheik is the work of solo developer Reliq and presents itself as a board-strategy experience. The gameplay features a combination of:
- Turn-based board mechanics with a strong puzzle influence
- Stock trading; players buy and sell shares to build an oil empire
- Multiple AI difficulty levels for solo play
- Customization options like alternate card backs and unlockable in-game rewards
You progress by completing missions and puzzles, or you can opt for quick matches against AI opponents. The game’s design deliberately echoes board game logic, with an added economic layer for decision-making depth.
Platform details
- Developer/Publisher: Reliq
- Release date: July 24, 2025
- Current price: Free (expected to be paid after full release in Q3 2025)
- Supported OS: Windows, Linux
- Genres: Strategy, Puzzle, Simulation, Indie
Accessibility and features
- Full controller support
- Adjustable difficulty
- Playable without timed inputs
- Well-suited for casual and strategy players alike
Reception and skepticism
While Oil Sheik currently has a user review rating of 93% positive (from a small pool of early reviews), there are no major critic reviews yet. As a brand-new indie release, the game could more than likely face typical early hurdles in terms of polish, balance, or depth. Players should check it out while it’s free, but manage expectations given its indie roots and lone developer status.
How long is it free?
The developer notes that Oil Sheik is free during the current development phase. The game is planned to switch to a paid model with a "small price tag" upon full release in Q3 2025.
Check out the Xbox Wireless gaming Controller - curr. $64 on Amazon.
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