🧠 Survival, strategy, and post-apocalyptic atmosphere in Burntime.
A forgotten strategy game with soul and depth
Burntime is a unique blend of role-playing and strategy, set in a ruined world after a global nuclear war. The world has become a barren wasteland where civilization has collapsed, and the fight for resources like water and food is critical. You start as a single person, but your goal is to build a group of survivors and take control of multiple towns and regions across the post-apocalyptic landscape.
The game was developed by Max Design (known for 1869 and Oldtimer) and was originally released in 1993, yet it still has a special charm—and a gameplay structure that feels surprisingly modern.
🔥 Gameplay – It’s all about resources and dominance
In Burntime, you have to think both tactically and strategically. You should:
- Gather resources such as water, canned food, and equipment
- Recruit survivors and specialists with different skills (e.g., cooks and technicians)
- Fight rivals who try to take control from you
- Upgrade and defend towns to ensure stability and dominance
Combat is turn-based, while the map and movement feel more like a classic strategy game. Every decision you make—who you ally with, which towns you secure first—can have major consequences.
🕹️ Retro graphics with character
The graphics are 2D and typical of the early ’90s, but the bleak color palette and apocalyptic environments fit the game’s theme perfectly. It’s not beautiful by today’s standards, but it’s very atmospheric.
The music is dark and fitting—and although the sound effects are sparse, they support the lonely mood of survival and conflict.
🛠️ Technical requirements and compatibility
Burntime was designed for DOS, but it works great with DOSBox, which you can also find here on Download.dk. The game runs smoothly on modern Windows PCs with the right setup.
🧩 Tips and tricks to get started
Save often—Burntime is unforgiving and rewards planning.
Recruit an engineer early—they can repair equipment and keep your bases running.
Don’t spread yourself too quickly—it’s better to have a few secure bases than many unstable ones.
Ensure enough food and water—shortages quickly lead to unrest and lost territory.
Watch enemy movements—be proactive and strike when they’re weakest.