Imperator: Rome is the latest strategy game from Paradox. I really think that you have to say the people at Paradox are the kings when it comes to strategy games. Just when you think that the strategy game cannot be taken any further when you think that it cannot become any more in-depth. A game like Imperator: Rome comes along and slaps you in the face.
How to Download Imperator: Rome
You can download Imperator: Rome from Steam. Be sure to also check out other Paradox titles: Hearts of Iron IV (2016), Stellaris (2016), Crusader Kings (2012) or Europa Universalis IV (2013).
The Game Review
I will start this review by stating that there is no way I can cover just how massive this game is in a written review. What I can tell you though is that Imperator: Rome is one of the most addictive games I have played all year. There is a reason so many strategy fans are flipping out over this and I am sure it will top many games of the year lists.
The game is set during one of the most interesting periods of human history. It is set during Alexander’s greatest triumphs and goes all the way up to western civilization. There is a story here and I am sure history buffs will get a kick out of it. I also think that it is cool the way you can try and change history.
There is a real emphasis on “characters” in Imperator: Rome. The game really goes all-in when it comes to the individuality of characters that you can interact with, work with and give orders to. They can also change the kind of person they are. It does not sound like much, but it is done very well.
Dealing with all the different populations sounds like a nightmare, but this is one of the most enjoyable parts of the game. You, of course, have your citizens that you need to appease. However, there are slaves, tribes and other different kinds of populations that all have their own needs wants, religion, culture and so on. Keeping everyone happy is a very delicate balancing act.
The combat in Imperator: Rome is what is really going to take you a while to get used to. I found there to be a rather steep learning curve, but once you do “get it” the game really opens up into something special. Before each encounter, you will have to think long and hard about your tactics, which will change depending on the battle at hand.
As you would expect, there are many cultures that you will be dealing within the game and the way that they wag war will differ from place to place. Some might be all about swords and shields, others might ride into battle on elephants! This makes for some very exciting gameplay that really does keep you on your toes.
Adding to the excitement of the combat are people rising up and trying to do a rebellion. You could even have an army of wandering barbarians wanting a piece of the land that you have. Imperator: Rome throws a ton of things your way and I can assure you that you will actually look forward to each challenge.
Combat is not the only thing that makes up this game. You have to manage the government, trade with other nations, build new homes, roads and so on. There is always something that needs doing in this game and one decision that will please someone will usually make someone else not too thrilled.
I really cannot oversell Imperator: Rome enough. If you are a fan of strategy games then you owe it to yourself to play this game. I have really on just touched the tip of the iceberg of what this game offers. I have put quite a few hours into it already and I am still finding new and awesome things.