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Frozen Synapse official game artwork

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Frozen Synapse Wiki

Brings the simultaneous turn-based strategy genre up-to-date and lets you give detailed, accurate orders to your squad.

Steam ↗Windows · macOS · Linux
GameWiki EditorialReviewed 5 guide topics

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About Frozen Synapse

Frozen Synapse updates the simultaneous‑turn‑based strategy genre for PC, Mac and Linux, letting you issue precise squad orders before both sides act together. Pressing the “Prime” button resolves all moves at once, demanding careful prediction.

The game adds a 55‑mission single‑player campaign, five multiplayer modes—including the bidding‑based Secure and Hostage Rescue—and a Skirmish Generator that mixes random and hand‑crafted map elements for continual variety. Social tools and an electronica soundtrack round out the experience.

01 / THE GUIDE

Simultaneous Turn Execution

You plan each unit’s movement and action, then hit the “Prime” button; all orders from both sides are executed in a single moment, removing reactive play.

This mechanic forces you to anticipate enemy positioning and timing, turning each turn into a predictive puzzle rather than a simple reaction.

  • Study enemy unit placement before priming to improve your prediction.
  • Record a few turns to see how often your expectations match the outcome.

02 / THE GUIDE

Single‑Player Campaign

The campaign delivers 55 missions set in a near‑future narrative, each featuring dynamic dialogue that frames the tactical objectives.

Mission goals and environments differ, requiring you to adjust squad formations and order precision as the story progresses.

  • Read mission briefings for hints about enemy behavior.
  • Experiment with alternative unit arrangements to discover effective tactics.
Frozen Synapse official gameplay screenshot
Publisher-provided gameplay image · Mode 7

03 / THE GUIDE

Multiplayer Modes

Five competitive modes are available, two of which—Secure and Hostage Rescue—use a bidding system that adds a strategic layer before the turn begins.

All multiplayer matches retain the simultaneous‑turn system, and integrated IRC chat lets players coordinate with each other.

  • Try the bidding‑based modes to experience the extra strategic decision.
  • Use IRC to coordinate match settings with opponents.

04 / THE GUIDE

Skirmish Generator

The generator creates maps by blending random generation with hand‑crafted design, ensuring each skirmish presents a fresh tactical layout.

Because both random and curated elements are used, maps avoid repetition while still offering recognizable strategic features.

  • Run several generated maps in a row to practice adapting to new terrain.
  • Compare generated maps to hand‑crafted ones to spot recurring choke points.

05 / THE GUIDE

Community Integration

Integrated IRC chat, plus links to Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, let players discuss tactics and share content without leaving the game.

Steam achievements and trading cards provide additional social goals, encouraging interaction with the broader player base.

  • Join the IRC channel to find quick match partners.
  • Share notable moments on social platforms to engage with other fans.

WATCH THE GAME

Frozen Synapse videos

Official trailers & gameplay

INSIDE THE WORLD

Screenshots & game images

5 official screenshots

IN THIS WIKI

Your reading checklist

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COMMUNITY

Player discussion

    QUICK ANSWERS

    Frozen Synapse FAQ

    What does the “Prime” button do?

    Pressing Prime triggers the simultaneous execution of all planned orders for you and the opponent, resolving the turn in one instant.

    How many multiplayer modes are included?

    The game offers five multiplayer modes, with Secure and Hostage Rescue featuring a bidding mechanic that influences the match.

    Can I create new maps for practice?

    Yes, the Skirmish Generator produces varied maps by mixing random and hand‑crafted elements, giving endless practice scenarios.

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    SOURCES & CREDITS

    Official resources and further reading

    Original editorial guidance. Game imagery and trailers are provided by the publisher through Steam. Media and reference links checked 2026-10-24. Game versions, supported platforms, and balance can change; consult the linked release notes for current details.