Is there a simple game program in which you have X * Y matrix (the actual game is played on that simple table field) in a standard windows GUI (fullscreen option is not needed), so the fields in that table-like grid of game are filled with small static icon-like square pictures (only 'projectiles' (what ever they might be in the custom game) could be seen moving freely across the fields); but the thing is - you can EASILY make your own game characters and environment graphics (maze-like usually) --- is there such game program?

My emphasis here is on total simplicity - a game program which is so simple it reminds you on winmines. Ideal would be if such game could be played like this: there's a time limit for you and opponent(s) to arrange your game characters, and then when time runs out or everyone pushes 'Execute turn!' button the moves are simultaneously executed.

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On the other hand - I am also interested in a game program with a top-down perspective and rich (photo-realistic) 2D graphics - exactly like that Crimsonland game, but in which you can make your own game characters.

(e.g. imagine a game of tanks (sort of - variation on that old cannon game (where you take wind, obstacles and distance into consideration)) - only top-down (fixed perspective) so in it you use mouse wheel to manually aim the turret (turn the turret (and that cool sound is heard with your every turn) and change tank gun-barrel elevation) - you program the middle button to act as modifier between the two function modes - that would be cool (inform me if someone already made such game))

Dani AI

Generated

For the simple, Minesweeper-style grid and the simultaneous "plan then execute" turn you described, there are two practical routes: pick a ready game that already uses simultaneous-turn tactics, or use a lightweight 2D editor/engine so you can import your own square icons and rules quickly. As laid out the feature set and suggested, specialist game/modding communities will have deeper recommendations, but the tools below let you build exactly what you sketched without heavy engines.

  • Frozen Synapse illustrates the exact simultaneous planning + execute model you want; study it for UI/UX and resolution rules (Frozen Synapse).
  • If you want to build your own game (tile grid, windowed GUI, custom sprites) try a visual engine: GameMaker or Construct for fast drag-and-drop workflows.
  • For a free/open route with robust 2D tile support, use Godot Engine (has TileMap, sprites, and windowed builds). Pair it with a map editor like Tiled Map Editor if you prefer separate level editing.
  • If you just want RPG-style tiled editing (very simple art import), RPG Maker or Clickteam Fusion (Clickteam) can also be quick to pick up.

Quick workflow tips you can apply immediately:

  • Create square icons (16x16, 32x32 or 64x64) in any image editor and keep a consistent grid size.
  • Build a TileMap/room, place static tiles for environment, and use sprite objects for characters.
  • For simultaneous turns: record each player/unit action during the planning phase, then run a deterministic simulation that steps all units forward in fixed ticks so actions resolve in the same timeline. Test with fixed timesteps to avoid desyncs.
  • Start small: prototype one mechanic (simultaneous move + one projectile type) before adding aiming/turret UI.

For targeted help on implementation details (UI for planning, deterministic simulation, projectile discretization), gaming dev communities like r/gamedev or the Godot forums are good next stops.

hi pretty sure you would get better answers from a gaming forum than a windows help forum

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