Battle Realms (2001)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Battle Realms: A Timeless Classic of Real-Time Strategy

Released in 2001, Battle Realms is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that has stood the test of time. Developed by Liquid Entertainment and published by Ubisoft, Battle Realms is set in a mythical oriental world and features a unique blend of fantasy and strategy gameplay.

Story

Battle Realms tells the story of Kenji, the exiled heir to the Dragon throne. Kenji must stake his claim in a chaotic world wracked by the subversive intrigues of the Serpent, Wolf, and Lotus clans. Players can choose to side with Kenji and the Dragon clan, or they can choose to play as one of the other clans.

Each clan has its own unique units, abilities, and playstyle. The Dragon clan is well-rounded and easy to learn, making them a good choice for beginners. The Serpent clan is more focused on stealth and deception, while the Wolf clan is more aggressive and warlike. The Lotus clan is the most difficult to play, but they also have the most powerful units.

Gameplay

Battle Realms is a traditional RTS game at its core. Players must gather resources, build a base, and train an army to defeat their enemies. However, Battle Realms also introduces some unique gameplay mechanics that set it apart from other RTS games.

One of the most unique features of Battle Realms is Unit Alchemy. Unit Alchemy allows players to combine different units to create new and more powerful units. For example, players can combine a peasant and a swordsman to create a samurai, or they can combine a geisha and a ninja to create a kunoichi.

Another unique feature of Battle Realms is the use of chi. Chi is a powerful energy that can be used to cast spells, heal units, and power up buildings. Players must carefully manage their chi resources in order to be successful in battle.

Graphics and Sound

For a game released in 2001, Battle Realms has impressive graphics. The game’s world is lush and detailed, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it perfectly captures the game’s oriental atmosphere.

Reception

Battle Realms was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and immersive soundtrack. Battle Realms was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year at the 2002 Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Awards.

Legacy

Battle Realms is still considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made. The game’s unique blend of fantasy and strategy gameplay, as well as its innovative features, have made it a timeless classic. Battle Realms has also spawned a number of sequels and expansions, including Battle Realms: Winter of the White Wolf and Battle Realms: Zen Edition.

Conclusion

Battle Realms is a must-play for any fan of RTS games. The game’s unique blend of fantasy and strategy gameplay, as well as its beautiful graphics and immersive soundtrack, make it a truly special experience. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding RTS game, Battle Realms is definitely worth checking out.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Liquid Entertainment
  • Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: November 12, 2001
  • Platforms: Windows, Mac OS X
  • Genre: Real-time strategy
  • ESRB Rating: T for Teen

System Requirements

  • OS: Windows 98/ME/2000/XP
  • Processor: 500 MHz Pentium II or equivalent
  • Memory: 128 MB RAM
  • Graphics: 16 MB video card with DirectX 8.0 support
  • DirectX: 8.0 or later
  • Hard Drive Space: 500 MB free space

Tips for Playing Battle Realms

  • Use Unit Alchemy to your advantage. Unit Alchemy is a powerful tool that can be used to create new and more powerful units. Experiment with different combinations to find the units that work best for your playstyle.
  • Manage your chi resources carefully. Chi is a valuable resource that can be used to cast spells, heal units, and power up buildings. Make sure to use your chi wisely in order to be successful in battle.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. Battle Realms is a game with a lot of different units and abilities. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies and tactics to find what works best for you.
  • Have fun! Battle Realms is a great game that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. So relax, have fun, and conquer your enemies!

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More