Developer: The Creative Assembly

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion: A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion is a standalone expansion pack to the critically acclaimed Medieval: Total War, released in 2003. Developed by The Creative Assembly and published by Sega, Viking Invasion transports players to the tumultuous Dark Ages, where they can experience the brutal invasions of the British Isles by the Scandinavian hordes. With new factions, a new campaign map, and new game mechanics, Viking Invasion offers a unique and immersive strategy gaming experience.

Gameplay

At its core, Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion is a turn-based strategy game. Players take control of one of several factions and must conquer territories, manage resources, and build up their armies to achieve victory. The game features two main modes:

  • Campaign: The campaign mode is the heart of Viking Invasion. Players choose a faction and must conquer a series of territories to achieve their objectives. The campaign map is based on the British Isles, and features a variety of different terrains, from forests and mountains to rivers and coasts.
  • Custom Battles: Custom battles allow players to create their own scenarios and battle against the AI or other players. Players can choose from a variety of different factions, units, and maps to create their own unique battles.

New Features

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion introduces a number of new features to the series, including:

  • New Factions: Viking Invasion adds five new factions to the game: the Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons, the Scots, the Welsh, and the Irish. Each faction has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must adapt their strategies accordingly.
  • New Campaign Map: The campaign map in Viking Invasion is based on the British Isles, and features a variety of different terrains and climate zones. Players must carefully consider the terrain when planning their campaigns, as it can have a significant impact on the outcome of battles.
  • New Units: Viking Invasion adds a number of new units to the game, including the fearsome Viking berserkers, the Anglo-Saxon fyrdmen, and the Welsh longbowmen. Each unit has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully compose their armies to achieve victory.
  • New Game Mechanics: Viking Invasion introduces a number of new game mechanics, including the ability to raid settlements and the use of siege weapons. Raiding can be a lucrative way to earn resources, but it can also anger the local population and make it more difficult to conquer territories. Siege weapons can be used to attack enemy fortifications, but they are expensive and difficult to transport.

Graphics and Sound

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion features impressive graphics for its time. The game’s unit models are detailed and well-animated, and the battlefields are rendered with a high level of realism. The game’s sound design is also excellent, with realistic sound effects and a stirring musical score.

Reception

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its detailed graphics, and its immersive atmosphere. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Conclusion

Medieval: Total War – Viking Invasion is a standalone expansion pack that offers a unique and immersive strategy gaming experience. With its new factions, campaign map, units, and game mechanics, Viking Invasion is a must-have for fans of the Total War series. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a new player, Viking Invasion is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Score: 9/10

Review Score

9/10

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Total War: Arena (2018)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Total War: Arena: A Comprehensive Guide to Epic Real-Time Strategy Battles

Introduction

Total War: Arena is a free-to-play, team-based strategy game that puts players in the middle of epic-scale real-time battles. Developed by Creative Assembly and published by Wargaming, Total War: Arena combines the strategic depth of the Total War series with the fast-paced action of real-time strategy games.

Gameplay

Total War: Arena features 10v10 battles designed for multiplayer real-time strategy fans. Players control three units of warriors, led by an iconic commander from history, each with their own battle style. Commanders and units can be leveled up to open up more specialist skills, weaponry, armor, and abilities.

Battles take place on large, detailed maps with a variety of terrain features. Players must use strategy and tactics to position their units effectively, flank their enemies, and exploit the terrain to their advantage. Teamwork is also essential, as players must coordinate their attacks and defenses to achieve victory.

Commanders

Commanders are the leaders of your army in Total War: Arena. Each commander has their own unique abilities and playstyle. Some commanders are better suited for offense, while others are better at defense or support. Players can choose from a variety of commanders, including historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Joan of Arc.

Units

Units are the backbone of your army in Total War: Arena. Each unit has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some units are good at melee combat, while others are better at ranged combat. Players must carefully select their units to create a balanced army that can adapt to any situation.

Progression

Players can progress in Total War: Arena by leveling up their commanders and units. Leveling up unlocks new skills, weaponry, armor, and abilities. Players can also earn new commanders and units by completing challenges and participating in events.

Game Modes

Total War: Arena features a variety of game modes, including:

  • Conquest: Two teams of 10 players compete to capture and hold control points.
  • Deathmatch: Two teams of 10 players fight to the death.
  • Ranked Battles: Players compete in ranked matches to earn rewards and climb the leaderboards.
  • Custom Battles: Players can create their own custom battles with their own rules and settings.

Historical Setting

Total War: Arena is set in a variety of historical periods, including the ancient world, the medieval era, and the early modern period. Players can choose to play as one of several factions, including the Romans, the Greeks, the Carthaginians, and the Gauls.

Graphics and Sound

Total War: Arena features stunning graphics and sound. The game’s detailed maps and realistic unit models bring the battles to life. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with epic orchestral music that adds to the atmosphere of the battles.

Conclusion

Total War: Arena is a great choice for fans of real-time strategy games. The game’s epic battles, historical setting, and deep strategic gameplay make it a unique and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the Total War series or a newcomer to the genre, Total War: Arena is sure to provide you with hours of entertainment.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you succeed in Total War: Arena:

  • Choose your commanders and units carefully to create a balanced army.
  • Use the terrain to your advantage.
  • Flank your enemies whenever possible.
  • Coordinate with your teammates to achieve victory.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies and tactics.
  • Practice makes perfect! The more you play, the better you will become.

Review Score

8/10

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Total War: Warhammer (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Total War: Warhammer – A Triumphant Fusion of Strategy and Fantasy

Total War: Warhammer is a groundbreaking strategy game that seamlessly blends the colossal real-time battles of the Total War series with the rich fantasy universe of Warhammer. Released in 2016, it marked the beginning of an epic trilogy that redefined the genre, offering hundreds of hours of absorbing gameplay, captivating characters, and stunning visuals.

A Realm of Legendary Proportions

Total War: Warhammer transports players to a vibrant and perilous world brimming with legendary heroes, towering monsters, flying creatures, and regiments of nightmarish warriors. It introduces four distinct races: the noble Empire, the cunning Greenskins, the vengeful Dwarfs, and the sinister Vampire Counts. Each faction possesses unique units, abilities, and playstyles, allowing for diverse and engaging campaigns.

The game’s campaign map is a vast and detailed representation of the Warhammer world, featuring iconic locations such as the Empire’s capital of Altdorf, the Greenskins’ Badlands, and the Dwarfs’ Karaz Ankor. Players conquer provinces, establish alliances, and engage in diplomacy to expand their empires and achieve their objectives.

Colossal Real-Time Battles

Total War: Warhammer’s real-time battles are a spectacle to behold. Players command thousands of troops across sprawling battlefields, utilizing a wide range of unit types, from infantry and cavalry to artillery and flying units. Each unit has its strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their formations and tactics to achieve victory.

The game’s combat system is both visceral and strategic. Units clash in brutal melee combat, while archers unleash volleys of arrows and artillery bombards enemy positions. Players can also unleash powerful spells and abilities that can turn the tide of battle.

Addictive Turn-Based Campaign

Beyond the epic battles, Total War: Warhammer features an addictive turn-based campaign that offers a deep and rewarding strategic experience. Players manage their empires, build and upgrade settlements, recruit and train armies, and engage in diplomacy with other factions.

The campaign map is divided into provinces, each with its unique resources and bonuses. Players must carefully plan their conquests and manage their resources to expand their empires and achieve their goals. Diplomacy plays a crucial role, as alliances and trade agreements can provide significant advantages.

Uniting the Warhammer World

Total War: Warhammer is not just a standalone game; it is the foundation of an epic trilogy that expands and enriches the Warhammer universe. Two standalone installments, Total War: Warhammer II and Total War: Warhammer III, have been released, each introducing new races, campaigns, and features.

Moreover, numerous content packs and downloadable content have been released, adding even more depth and variety to the game. This interconnectedness creates a vast and cohesive Warhammer experience that caters to both casual and hardcore fans alike.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Upon its release, Total War: Warhammer received widespread critical acclaim. It was praised for its stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and the seamless fusion of the Total War and Warhammer universes. The game won numerous awards, including “Game of the Year” from PC Gamer and “Best Strategy Game” from IGN.

Total War: Warhammer’s legacy is undeniable. It not only redefined the fantasy strategy genre but also set a new standard for the Total War series. Its success paved the way for future installments and spin-offs, ensuring that the Warhammer universe will continue to captivate and engage gamers for years to come.

Conclusion

Total War: Warhammer is a triumph in game design, seamlessly blending the epic battles and strategic depth of the Total War series with the rich fantasy world of Warhammer. Its captivating campaigns, diverse factions, and stunning visuals offer hundreds of hours of absorbing gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned Total War veteran or a newcomer to the Warhammer universe, Total War: Warhammer is an essential experience that will redefine your expectations for strategy gaming.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Rome: Total War (2004)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Rome: Total War (2004): A Timeless Masterpiece of Strategy Gaming

Released in 2004, Rome: Total War is a real-time tactics and turn-based strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. Set during the tumultuous period of the late Roman Republic and the early Roman Empire, the game allows players to take control of one of three Roman families (the Julii, Brutii, or Scipii) or one of eight other playable factions and guide them to conquer the ancient world.

Gameplay

Rome: Total War combines real-time battles with turn-based strategy on a massive campaign map. Players must manage their armies, cities, and resources while engaging in diplomatic negotiations and waging war against their enemies.

  • Real-Time Battles: Battles in Rome: Total War are fought in real-time on detailed and realistic battlefields. Players can control a variety of unit types, including infantry, cavalry, and siege weapons, and must use their tactical skills to outmaneuver and defeat their opponents.
  • Turn-Based Strategy: Outside of battles, players manage their empire on a turn-based campaign map. They can build and upgrade cities, recruit and train armies, and conduct diplomacy with other factions. The ultimate goal of the campaign is to become emperor of Rome by conquering fifty provinces and capturing Rome itself.

Historical Setting and Factions

Rome: Total War is set during one of the most fascinating periods in human history, a time of great political upheaval, military conquest, and cultural achievement. Players can choose to play as one of three Roman families, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses:

  • Julii: Led by Julius Caesar, the Julii are a well-rounded faction with a strong focus on military conquest.
  • Brutii: Led by Marcus Junius Brutus, the Brutii are a more defensive faction with a strong economy and a focus on diplomacy.
  • Scipii: Led by Scipio Africanus, the Scipii are a naval power with a strong presence in North Africa and the Mediterranean Sea.

In addition to the Roman factions, players can also choose to play as one of eight other playable factions, including the Gauls, Britons, Macedonians, and Egyptians. Each faction has its own unique units, abilities, and playstyle, offering a wide variety of strategic choices for players.

Legacy and Impact

Rome: Total War was a critical and commercial success, selling over two million copies worldwide. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest strategy games ever made and has had a profound impact on the genre.

The game’s innovative combination of real-time battles and turn-based strategy set a new standard for strategy gaming. It also introduced a number of new features to the genre, such as the use of historical settings and the ability to control individual units in battle.

Rome: Total War has spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Medieval: Total War, Shogun: Total War, and Total War: Warhammer. The series has become one of the most popular and successful strategy game franchises in history.

Conclusion

Rome: Total War is a timeless masterpiece of strategy gaming that continues to be enjoyed by players around the world. Its innovative gameplay, historical setting, and wide variety of factions offer a truly immersive and engaging experience. Whether you’re a seasoned strategy gamer or a newcomer to the genre, Rome: Total War is a must-play.

Additional Features

In addition to its core gameplay, Rome: Total War also offers a number of additional features, including:

  • Multiplayer: Players can compete against each other in multiplayer battles or cooperative campaigns.
  • Modding: The game has a large and active modding community that has created a wide variety of new content, including new factions, units, and campaigns.
  • Historical Battles: The game includes a number of historical battles that players can recreate, such as the Battle of Cannae and the Battle of Alesia.

Critical Reception

Rome: Total War received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, historical setting, and stunning graphics. The game won numerous awards, including Game of the Year awards from IGN and GameSpot.

Here are some excerpts from critical reviews of the game:

  • “Rome: Total War is a masterpiece of strategy gaming. It sets a new standard for the genre and is a must-play for any fan of strategy games.” – IGN
  • “Rome: Total War is an epic game that will keep you entertained for hours on end. It is one of the best strategy games ever made.” – GameSpot
  • “Rome: Total War is a triumph of game design. It is a complex and challenging game, but it is also incredibly rewarding.” – PC Gamer

Review Score

9/10

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Rome: Total War – Alexander (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Rome: Total War – Alexander: A Historical Strategy Epic

Released in 2006, Rome: Total War – Alexander is the second expansion pack for the critically acclaimed strategy game Rome: Total War. Set in the time of Alexander the Great, the game allows players to take on the role of the young Macedonian king and lead his armies to conquer the world.

Gameplay

Rome: Total War – Alexander features the same basic gameplay as the original Rome: Total War. Players control their armies in real-time battles, and manage their empire on a turn-based campaign map. However, the expansion pack also introduces a number of new features and changes, including:

  • A new campaign map that spans the entirety of Alexander’s empire, from Greece to India.
  • 10 new factions, including the Macedonians, Persians, and Indians.
  • Over 50 new units, including Alexander’s elite Companion Cavalry and the war elephants of the Indian kingdoms.
  • A new technology tree that reflects the advances made during Alexander’s reign.
  • A new diplomacy system that allows players to form alliances, trade agreements, and declare war on other factions.

Campaign

The Alexander campaign is a challenging but rewarding experience. Players begin the game as Alexander the Great in 336 BC, and must guide him through his thirteen-year reign. The campaign’s objective is to conquer 30 provinces within the 100-turn limit.

To achieve this goal, players must carefully manage their resources, build up their armies, and form alliances with other factions. They must also be prepared to fight a number of tough battles, as Alexander’s enemies will not go down without a fight.

Battles

The battles in Rome: Total War – Alexander are some of the most epic and challenging in the Total War series. Players must use their wits and tactical skill to defeat their enemies, who will often outnumber them.

The game’s unit variety is excellent, and each unit has its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully consider the composition of their armies and use the terrain to their advantage in order to achieve victory.

Graphics and Sound

Rome: Total War – Alexander features impressive graphics for its time. The campaign map is detailed and immersive, and the battlefields are brought to life with stunning visual effects. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with realistic sound effects and a stirring soundtrack.

Reception

Rome: Total War – Alexander was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, historical accuracy, and stunning graphics. It was also nominated for a number of awards, including Game of the Year.

Legacy

Rome: Total War – Alexander is still considered one of the best strategy games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, historical accuracy, and stunning graphics. The game has also had a significant impact on the Total War series, and many of its features have been carried over into subsequent games.

Conclusion

Rome: Total War – Alexander is a must-play for fans of strategy games and history buffs alike. It is a challenging but rewarding game that offers a unique and immersive experience. If you are looking for a game that will test your strategic skills and transport you back to the time of Alexander the Great, then Rome: Total War – Alexander is the perfect game for you.

Review Score

8/10

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Total War: Shogun 2 (2011)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Total War: Shogun 2: A Masterpiece of Strategy Gaming

Released in 2011, Total War: Shogun 2 is a turn-based strategy game set in feudal Japan. Players take on the role of a daimyo, a feudal lord, and must conquer and unify the country. The game features a vast campaign map, detailed historical battles, and a deep and engaging political system.

One of the things that makes Shogun 2 so special is its incredible attention to detail. The game’s visuals are stunning, with lush landscapes, intricate architecture, and realistic unit models. The audio is also top-notch, with authentic Japanese music and sound effects.

But Shogun 2 is more than just a pretty face. The gameplay is deep and engaging, with a wide variety of strategic options available to players. Players must carefully manage their resources, build and maintain armies, and negotiate with other daimyo. The game also features a unique political system, which allows players to form alliances, declare war, and even assassinate their rivals.

The campaign in Shogun 2 is vast and challenging. Players start with a single province and must gradually conquer their way to unify Japan. Along the way, they will face a variety of challenges, including rebellions, invasions, and natural disasters. The game also features a number of historical events, such as the Mongol invasions and the rise of the Ashikaga shogunate.

In addition to the campaign, Shogun 2 also features a number of other game modes, including multiplayer battles, historical battles, and a sandbox mode. The multiplayer battles are particularly well-designed, and allow players to test their skills against other human opponents.

Overall, Total War: Shogun 2 is a masterpiece of strategy gaming. It offers a deep and engaging campaign, stunning visuals, and a wide variety of strategic options. Whether you’re a fan of history, strategy games, or just great games in general, Shogun 2 is definitely worth checking out.

Gameplay

Total War: Shogun 2 is a turn-based strategy game. Players take turns moving their armies around the campaign map, conquering provinces, and building up their forces. The game features a wide variety of unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully consider the composition of their armies in order to succeed in battle.

In addition to the turn-based campaign, Shogun 2 also features real-time battles. These battles are fought on detailed 3D maps, and players have full control over their units. The battles are intense and exciting, and require players to use their strategic skills to defeat their opponents.

Diplomacy and Politics

Diplomacy and politics play a major role in Shogun 2. Players must carefully manage their relationships with other daimyo. They can form alliances, declare war, and even assassinate their rivals. The political system is complex and nuanced, and players must use all of their skills to succeed.

Historical Setting

Total War: Shogun 2 is set in feudal Japan during the Sengoku period. This was a time of great political upheaval and warfare. The country was divided into a number of warring clans, each vying for power. The game features a number of historical characters, such as Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Conclusion

Total War: Shogun 2 is a masterpiece of strategy gaming. It offers a deep and engaging campaign, stunning visuals, and a wide variety of strategic options. Whether you’re a fan of history, strategy games, or just great games in general, Shogun 2 is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

9/10

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Total War Battles: Kingdom (2015)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Total War Battles: Kingdom (2015): A Comprehensive Review

Introduction

Total War Battles: Kingdom is a real-time strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega. It was released on May 26, 2015, for Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux. The game is a spin-off of the Total War series and combines elements of strategy, kingdom management, and real-time battles.

Gameplay

Total War Battles: Kingdom is set in a medieval world where players take on the role of a lord or lady of a small kingdom. The game’s objective is to expand your kingdom by conquering new territories, building up your economy, and training a powerful army.

The game is played on a turn-based map, where players can move their armies around, attack enemy units, and build new structures. When two armies meet on the battlefield, the game switches to a real-time battle mode.

Kingdom Management

In Total War Battles: Kingdom, players must manage their kingdom’s resources in order to succeed. This includes building farms to produce food, mines to extract resources, and workshops to produce weapons and armor. Players must also manage their population, which can be used to work in these buildings or to fight in the army.

Real-Time Battles

Total War Battles: Kingdom’s real-time battles are one of the game’s most exciting features. Players can control their armies in real time, giving them the ability to outmaneuver their opponents and win battles through superior tactics.

The game’s battles are large-scale and feature a variety of different unit types, including infantry, cavalry, and artillery. Players must use their units’ strengths and weaknesses to their advantage in order to win battles.

Online Multiplayer

Total War Battles: Kingdom features a persistent online multiplayer mode, where players can compete against each other for control of the game world. Players can form alliances with other players, declare war on their enemies, and participate in large-scale battles.

Reception

Total War Battles: Kingdom received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s unique blend of strategy and real-time battles, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation.

The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It was nominated for several awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Strategy Game.

Conclusion

Total War Battles: Kingdom is a solid strategy game that offers a unique blend of kingdom management and real-time battles. While the game is not without its flaws, it is still a fun and engaging experience for fans of the strategy genre.

Detailed Review

Graphics

Total War Battles: Kingdom features beautiful and detailed graphics. The game’s environments are lush and vibrant, and the unit models are well-animated. The game’s battles are particularly impressive, with large-scale battles featuring hundreds of units on-screen at once.

Sound

The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The music is epic and sweeping, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The voice acting is also excellent, with each character having their own unique voice and personality.

Gameplay

Total War Battles: Kingdom’s gameplay is a mix of strategy and real-time battles. The strategy elements of the game are similar to those found in other Total War games, such as Total War: Rome II and Total War: Attila. Players must manage their kingdom’s resources, build up their economy, and train a powerful army.

The real-time battles in Total War Battles: Kingdom are a lot of fun. Players can control their armies in real time, giving them the ability to outmaneuver their opponents and win battles through superior tactics. The game’s battles are large-scale and feature a variety of different unit types, including infantry, cavalry, and artillery.

Replayability

Total War Battles: Kingdom has a lot of replayability thanks to its persistent online multiplayer mode. Players can compete against each other for control of the game world, form alliances with other players, declare war on their enemies, and participate in large-scale battles.

Overall

Total War Battles: Kingdom is a solid strategy game that offers a unique blend of kingdom management and real-time battles. While the game is not without its flaws, it is still a fun and engaging experience for fans of the strategy genre.

Score

8/10

Review Score

8/10

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Microcosm (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Microcosm (1993): A Journey Through the Human Body

Microcosm is a groundbreaking adventure game released in 1993 that takes players on an unforgettable journey through the human body. Developed by Accolade, the game combines stunning visuals, addictive gameplay, and a compelling science fiction story to create an experience that is both entertaining and educational.

Story

The game’s story follows the adventures of Dr. Rebecca “Beck” Jordan, a brilliant scientist who has been miniaturized and injected into the bloodstream of corporate mogul Tiron Korsby. Korsby has been targeted by the evil Axiom Corporation, who have implanted a microscopic probe into his brain in an attempt to control his mind.

Beck’s mission is to track down and destroy the probe before it reaches Korsby’s brain and executes its deadly mission. To do this, she must navigate through the strange and dangerous world of the human body, battling hostile antibodies, evading deadly viruses, and overcoming other obstacles.

Gameplay

Microcosm is played from a first-person perspective, with players controlling Beck as she explores the human body. The game world is rendered in stunning 3D graphics, and players can freely navigate through the veins, arteries, and organs.

Beck is equipped with a variety of weapons and tools to help her on her mission. These include a laser cannon, a grappling hook, and a healing device. Players must use these tools strategically to overcome the challenges they face.

Visuals

Microcosm was one of the first games to use 3D graphics, and the results are stunning. The game’s world is incredibly detailed and realistic, and players can see the individual cells and bacteria that make up the human body.

The game’s visuals are also used to create a sense of atmosphere and suspense. The dark and claustrophobic corridors of the human body are a constant reminder of the danger that Beck is in.

Sound

The sound design in Microcosm is also top-notch. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of ambient and electronic music that helps to create a sense of immersion and tension.

The sound effects are also very well done. The player can hear the beating of Korsby’s heart, the buzzing of flies, and the crackling of electricity. These sounds help to bring the game world to life and make the player feel like they are actually inside the human body.

Reception

Microcosm was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and compelling story. It was also a pioneer in the use of 3D graphics in video games.

Microcosm has been ranked as one of the best adventure games of all time by many publications. It is also considered to be one of the most influential games in the history of the genre.

Legacy

Microcosm has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and its immersive gameplay have inspired many other games.

The game has also been praised for its educational value. Microcosm teaches players about the human body and how it works. The game has been used in schools and museums to teach students about science and biology.

Conclusion

Microcosm is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s stunning visuals, addictive gameplay, and compelling story make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai (2012)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai: A Clash of Tradition and Modernity

Released in 2012, Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai is a standalone expansion to the award-winning Total War: Shogun 2. It transports players to 19th century Japan, a time of immense upheaval and conflict as the ancient traditions of the samurai clash with the explosive power of modern weaponry.

A Historical Setting

Fall of the Samurai is set during the Bakumatsu period, a tumultuous era that marked the end of Japan’s feudal system and the rise of a modern, industrialized nation. The game faithfully recreates this historical setting, with meticulously detailed battlefields, authentic unit rosters, and a gripping campaign that follows the struggle between the Imperial throne and the last Shogunate.

Gameplay

As in previous Total War games, Fall of the Samurai combines turn-based strategy on a campaign map with real-time battles. The campaign map allows players to manage their empire, build armies, and engage in diplomacy. Battles take place on detailed 3D battlefields, where players command thousands of troops in epic clashes.

New Features

Fall of the Samurai introduces several new features to the Total War series, including:

  • Steam-powered units: For the first time in a Total War game, players can field steam-powered warships and trains, adding a new dimension to both land and naval warfare.

  • New factions: The expansion adds four new playable factions: the Imperialists, the Shogunate, the Choshu, and the Satsuma. Each faction has its own unique strengths, weaknesses, and unit rosters.

  • Improved AI: The AI in Fall of the Samurai is significantly improved, providing a more challenging and engaging experience for players.

Critical Reception

Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai was met with critical acclaim upon release. Reviewers praised the game’s historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. The game received numerous awards, including “Best Strategy Game” from IGN and “Game of the Year” from PC Gamer.

Legacy

Fall of the Samurai is considered one of the best Total War games ever made. It has been praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive setting, and historical depth. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the Bakumatsu period in Western culture.

Conclusion

Total War: Shogun 2 – Fall of the Samurai is a masterpiece of historical strategy gaming. It offers a unique and immersive experience that allows players to explore one of the most fascinating periods in Japanese history. With its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and historical accuracy, Fall of the Samurai is a must-play for fans of strategy games and history buffs alike.

Review Score

9/10

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Shadow of the Beast (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Shadow of the Beast: A Retrospective

Released in 1989, Shadow of the Beast was a groundbreaking 16-bit game that pushed the limits of the Amiga, Atari ST, and Commodore 64 home computers. Developed by Reflections Interactive and published by Psygnosis, Shadow of the Beast was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

The game’s visuals were particularly impressive for the time. Shadow of the Beast boasted the most incredible high-speed parallax scrolling ever seen, creating a sense of depth and immersion that was unmatched by other games of the era. The game’s character sprites were also highly detailed and animated, bringing the world of Shadow of the Beast to life.

The game’s soundtrack was another highlight. Composed by David Whittaker, the soundtrack was atmospheric and immersive, perfectly capturing the game’s dark and brooding atmosphere. The soundtrack was also highly praised for its technical achievements, pushing the sound capabilities of the Amiga to the limit.

Shadow of the Beast’s gameplay was fast-paced and action-packed. The player controlled the protagonist, Aarbron, as he fought his way through hordes of enemies in order to avenge the death of his family. Aarbron was a powerful and agile warrior, and he could use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat his foes.

The game’s difficulty was notoriously high, but this only added to its appeal. Shadow of the Beast was a game that required patience, skill, and determination to master. It was a game that rewarded players who were willing to put in the time to learn its intricacies.

Shadow of the Beast was a major critical and commercial success. It won numerous awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best 16-Bit Game of the Year. The game was also praised by critics for its visuals, soundtrack, and gameplay.

The Story of Shadow of the Beast

Shadow of the Beast tells the story of Aarbron, a young boy who is kidnapped by the evil Beast Mages. The Beast Mages transform Aarbron into a creature of fearsome power, agility, and strength, and they use him as their warrior-messenger.

For many years, Aarbron faithfully serves the Beast Mages. However, one day he discovers the truth about his past. He learns that the Beast Mages killed his family, and he vows to avenge their deaths.

Aarbron sets out on a journey to the heart of the Beast Mages’ stronghold. Along the way, he encounters an awesome array of monsters and traps. He must use all of his skills and abilities to survive and defeat the Beast Mages.

The Legacy of Shadow of the Beast

Shadow of the Beast was a groundbreaking game that had a major impact on the video game industry. The game’s visuals, soundtrack, and gameplay were all highly praised, and it helped to raise the bar for future 16-bit games.

Shadow of the Beast also had a significant impact on the development of the action-adventure genre. The game’s fast-paced and action-packed gameplay helped to define the genre, and it inspired many future games.

Shadow of the Beast has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. The game has also been re-released on digital platforms such as Steam and GOG.com.

Shadow of the Beast remains a popular game today, and it is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. The game’s visuals, soundtrack, and gameplay are still impressive today, and it is a must-play for fans of retro gaming.

Tips for Playing Shadow of the Beast

Shadow of the Beast is a challenging game, but there are a few tips that can help you to succeed:

  • Be patient. Shadow of the Beast is a game that requires patience and skill to master. Don’t get discouraged if you die a few times. Just keep practicing and you will eventually get the hang of it.
  • Learn the enemy patterns. Each enemy in Shadow of the Beast has its own unique attack patterns. Once you learn these patterns, you can easily defeat them.
  • Use your abilities wisely. Aarbron has a variety of abilities that can help him to defeat his enemies. Use these abilities wisely and you will be able to overcome even the most difficult challenges.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. Shadow of the Beast is a large and complex game. Don’t be afraid to explore the different areas of the game and find hidden secrets.

Conclusion

Shadow of the Beast is a classic video game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s visuals, soundtrack, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a must-play for fans of retro gaming. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding game to play, then Shadow of the Beast is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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