Summary
- Release Year: 1972
- Genres: Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: HP 2100
- Developers: Peter Langston
- Publishers: Peter Langston
Empire (1972): The Granddaddy of 4X Strategy Games
In the annals of video game history, few titles hold the same reverence as Empire, the groundbreaking 4X strategy game that debuted in 1972. Empire laid the foundation for a genre that would go on to captivate countless gamers for decades to come, and its influence can still be seen in modern 4X classics like Civilization and Stellaris.
Origins and Development
Empire was the brainchild of Peter Langston, a computer science professor at Evergreen State College. Inspired by a board game of the same name, Langston created Empire as a text-based game on an HP2000 minicomputer. The game quickly gained popularity among Langston’s students and colleagues, and soon spread to other universities and research institutions.
However, when the host computer for the original Empire was retired, the source code to the game was lost. Fortunately, two other authors, Bob Polar and Greg Dykema, independently created their own versions of Empire, both of which were named Empire. These two versions, along with numerous other variants and ports, have kept the Empire legacy alive to this day.
Gameplay
Empire is a turn-based strategy game in which players compete to build the most powerful empire. The game world consists of a procedurally generated map divided into sectors, each of which can be developed to produce different resources or house military units.
Players start the game with a small number of units and a limited amount of resources. They must carefully manage their resources to develop their economy, research new technologies, and build up their military. Players can also engage in diplomacy with other players, forming alliances or declaring war.
Empire is a complex and challenging game that requires strategic planning, resource management, and military prowess. Games can last for hours, days, or even months, as players vie for control of the game world.
Legacy and Impact
Empire has had a profound impact on the video game industry. It is widely considered to be the first true 4X strategy game, and its core gameplay mechanics have been adopted by countless other games in the genre. Empire also helped to popularize the use of procedurally generated maps, which add replayability and variety to the game.
In addition to its direct influence on other games, Empire has also inspired a number of spin-offs and sequels. The most notable of these is probably Imperium Galactica, a space-based 4X game that was released in 1997. Imperium Galactica expanded on the core gameplay of Empire by adding features such as ship design and planetary invasion.
Empire Today
Empire remains a popular game today, despite its age. There are several active online communities dedicated to the game, and new versions and variants continue to be developed. If you’re a fan of 4X strategy games, or if you’re just curious about the origins of the genre, then Empire is a must-play.
Tips for Playing Empire
- Manage your resources carefully. Resources are scarce in Empire, so you need to carefully manage your income and expenses. Prioritize spending on essential buildings and units, and avoid wasting resources on unnecessary luxuries.
- Research new technologies. Technologies can give you a significant advantage in Empire. Prioritize researching technologies that will improve your economy, military, or diplomacy.
- Build a strong military. A strong military is essential for defending your empire and conquering new territory. Build a balanced mix of units, and make sure to upgrade your units as new technologies become available.
- Be flexible. Empire is a complex game with many different strategies that can lead to victory. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches, and adapt your strategy as the game progresses.
- Have fun! Empire is a challenging but rewarding game. Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from other players if you need it.
Review Score
9/10
