Dowager has tight rules, flexible character creation, fast-paced, tactical combat, and a rich, fun setting.
Unlike most tactically oriented TTRPGs, I never got bored or checked out when it wasn't my turn. Clean rules, simple math, and popcorn initiative keeps the fights moving. Even with a large party there are never long stretches of waiting. You can even get multiple encounters done in one session.
The setting is a stand-out feature for me. It's a sci-fantasy world where magic and technology are fully integrated with no real line of demarcation between them. It pulls from multiple sources of inspiration, but without becoming some spongey, gutless pastiche. Rather, the varied threads are woven together into something that stands on its own. I can taste some Phantasy Star in here, but it's transformed by the presence of other flavors. Thematically, Dowager touches on the loneliness and alienation of social media, the rise of techno-feudalism, and deindustrialization. It's not all gloom and doom, though. The PCs are equipped to punch back, the art is vibrant, and the writing has a sense of humor to keep things from becoming a dour slog.
Character options are juicy and speak directly to the setting; there's nothing generic here. Background abilities are rich, impactful, and can drastically change how your character plays. Combat classes dole out techniques in chunks, but can be mixed-and-matched freely, resulting in a flexible system that is as complex as the player wants without inducing choice paralysis.
If you enjoy sci-fantasy, play Dowager. If you enjoy tactical combat, play Dowager. If the news makes you wish you could smash your computer and howl at the moon, play Dowager. Play Dowager.
Play Dowager.