Summary
- Release Year: 1999
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Impressions Games
- Publishers: Sierra Entertainment
Pharaoh (1999): A Timeless City-Building Classic
Released in 1999 by Impressions Games and Sierra Entertainment, Pharaoh is a captivating city-building strategy game that transports players to the vibrant and enigmatic world of ancient Egypt. As the pharaoh, you are tasked with guiding your civilization to prosperity and glory, leaving behind a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Gameplay
Pharaoh offers a deep and engaging gameplay experience that blends city-building, resource management, and military strategy. Players start with a small settlement on the banks of the Nile River and must gradually expand their city by constructing buildings, managing resources, and maintaining a happy and productive population.
The game features a wide range of buildings to construct, each with its own unique purpose. These include houses for your citizens, temples to honor the gods, markets for trading goods, and workshops for producing resources. Players must carefully plan their city’s layout to ensure that all citizens have access to the services they need and that goods can flow efficiently throughout the city.
Resource management is another key aspect of Pharaoh. Players must ensure that their city has a steady supply of food, water, and other resources to sustain its population and fuel its growth. This involves managing farms, irrigation systems, and trade routes to acquire the necessary resources.
Pharaoh also incorporates military strategy elements. As your city grows and prospers, you will need to defend it from potential threats, such as invading armies and rebellions. The game features a variety of military units, including infantry, archers, and chariots, which players can use to protect their city and conquer new territories.
Historical Setting
Pharaoh is meticulously researched and accurately depicts the culture, architecture, and daily life of ancient Egypt. The game’s campaign mode spans several historical periods, from the Early Dynastic Period to the Ptolemaic Kingdom, and features missions based on real historical events.
Players will encounter a cast of historical figures, such as Pharaoh Khufu, Queen Hatshepsut, and Alexander the Great, and will have the opportunity to construct iconic monuments, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Library of Alexandria.
Legacy
Pharaoh was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered one of the greatest city-building strategy games ever made. The game’s immersive gameplay, historical accuracy, and beautiful graphics have earned it a loyal following among fans of the genre.
Pharaoh has also had a significant impact on the video game industry. It was one of the first games to successfully blend city-building and strategy elements, and it helped to popularize the historical setting for video games. The game’s success also led to the development of several sequels and spin-offs, including Cleopatra: Queen of the Nile and Zeus: Master of Olympus.
Conclusion
Pharaoh (1999) is a timeless classic that continues to captivate city-building enthusiasts and ancient Egypt aficionados alike. Its immersive gameplay, historical accuracy, and beautiful graphics make it a must-play for anyone interested in strategy games or ancient history. Whether you are a seasoned city-builder or a newcomer to the genre, Pharaoh is a game that will provide hours of enjoyment and challenge.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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