Summary
- Release Year: 2015
- Genres: Indie, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Simulator, Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Longbow Games
- Publishers: Longbow Games
Hegemony III: Clash of the Ancients: A Grand Strategy Masterpiece
Introduction
Hegemony III: Clash of the Ancients is a grand strategy wargame developed by Longbow Games and released in 2015. Set in ancient Italy during the 4th century BC, the game allows players to command one of several factions, including the Romans, Greeks, Gauls, and Etruscans, as they vie for control of the Italian peninsula.
Hegemony III is a deep and complex game that offers a realistic and challenging experience for strategy gamers. Players must manage their resources, build and maintain armies, conduct diplomacy, and engage in large-scale battles. The game features a detailed historical setting, accurate unit rosters, and a sophisticated AI that provides a formidable challenge.
Gameplay
Hegemony III is played on a large hexagonal map of ancient Italy. Players start the game with a small territory and a limited number of units. They must then expand their territory by conquering new provinces and defeating enemy armies. Players can also build cities, which provide income and allow them to recruit new units.
The game’s combat system is one of its most impressive features. Battles are fought in real-time on a separate battlefield map. Players can control their units directly or issue orders to them. The combat system is realistic and challenging, and it requires players to use careful tactics and strategy to achieve victory.
In addition to combat, players must also manage their resources and conduct diplomacy. Resources are used to build and maintain armies and cities. Diplomacy can be used to form alliances, trade, and declare war. Players must carefully balance all of these elements in order to achieve their goals.
Historical Setting
Hegemony III is set in ancient Italy during the 4th century BC. This was a time of great turmoil and change in the region. The Roman Republic was on the rise, but it was still a relatively small and weak state. The Etruscans, Gauls, and Greeks were also vying for control of Italy.
The game’s historical setting is meticulously researched and accurate. The unit rosters, maps, and events are all based on historical sources. This level of detail helps to create a truly immersive and authentic experience for players.
AI
The AI in Hegemony III is one of the game’s strongest features. The AI is challenging and aggressive, and it will not hesitate to attack players who are not prepared. The AI also uses a variety of tactics and strategies, which keeps players on their toes.
The AI is also able to learn and adapt to players’ strategies. This means that players cannot simply rely on the same tactics over and over again. They must constantly be adapting and changing their strategies in order to stay ahead of the AI.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in Hegemony III are simple but effective. The map is clear and easy to read, and the unit models are detailed and accurate. The game’s sound effects are also well done, and they help to create a realistic and immersive atmosphere.
Conclusion
Hegemony III: Clash of the Ancients is a deep, complex, and challenging grand strategy wargame. It offers a realistic and immersive experience for players who are interested in ancient history and warfare. The game’s detailed historical setting, accurate unit rosters, and sophisticated AI make it one of the best strategy games available.
Score: 9/10
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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