Summary
- Release Year: 2004
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Black Hole Entertainment
- Publishers: EA Play
Armies of Exigo: A Real-Time Strategy Masterpiece with a Unique Twist
Released in 2004, Armies of Exigo is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that stands out from the crowd thanks to its innovative underground mode. Developed by Black Hole Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, the game offers a challenging and immersive experience that has captivated RTS fans for years.
Gameplay
At its core, Armies of Exigo is a traditional RTS game where players gather resources, build bases, and train armies to conquer their opponents. However, the game’s unique twist is its underground mode, which adds an extra layer of complexity and strategy.
The underground mode allows players to create and manage a network of tunnels and caves beneath the surface of the map. These tunnels can be used to transport units, resources, and even entire armies, allowing for surprise attacks and sneaky maneuvers.
The underground mode also introduces new challenges, as players must now contend with darkness, limited visibility, and the possibility of enemy ambushes from below. This forces players to carefully plan their strategies and adapt to the ever-changing battlefield.
Factions
Armies of Exigo features three distinct factions, each with its own unique units, abilities, and playstyles:
- Humans: The humans are a well-rounded faction with a focus on ranged combat and defensive structures. They have access to a variety of units, including archers, knights, and siege weapons.
- Orcs: The orcs are a savage and brutal faction that excels in close combat. They have access to powerful melee units, such as berserkers, trolls, and catapults.
- Undead: The undead are a mysterious and powerful faction that relies on necromancy and dark magic. They have access to unique units, such as skeletons, zombies, and vampires.
Campaign
The game’s campaign consists of 24 missions spread across three acts. Each act focuses on a different faction and its struggle for dominance. The campaign missions are well-designed and offer a variety of challenges, from large-scale battles to stealth missions and resource management puzzles.
Multiplayer
Armies of Exigo also features a robust multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. The multiplayer mode supports up to eight players and offers a variety of game modes, including deathmatch, capture the flag, and king of the hill.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Armies of Exigo boasted impressive graphics that brought the medieval fantasy world to life. The unit models are detailed and well-animated, and the environments are lush and atmospheric. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of orchestral and ethnic music that perfectly captures the game’s epic scope.
Legacy
Armies of Exigo was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered one of the best RTS games ever made. The game’s innovative underground mode set a new standard for the genre, and its challenging and rewarding gameplay has kept players engaged for years.
Conclusion
Armies of Exigo is a timeless classic that offers a unique and immersive RTS experience. With its innovative underground mode, distinct factions, and epic campaign, the game continues to captivate players to this day. Whether you’re a seasoned RTS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Armies of Exigo is a must-play.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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