amazon Total War reviews
What makes a real-time strategy game? These are units, resource management and a brainwashing. But what is still important to RTS games, is the computer mouse. Accuracy in commands and movement is unrealistic on the touch screen. Total War Battles: Shogun is an extended version of the popular PC game series Total War on the touch screen. Unfortunately, things that make up a good strategy game are not here.
There are still a few things that make TWBS a tactical game: You’ll build your army houses, collect minerals, and upgrade your units. But instead of being free to build, you are bound in a tight space. Buildings must be constructed to fit the area and connected to the main road. Thanks to the design of this lousy screen, that is almost impossible.
Limiting maps in the game is a terrible thing. For example, when building a temple to produce monks will ask for four boxes, almost blocking all the way around it and you have to put the temple connected to a logging camp. And yet, players should not leave them near the market and like every other building, you can not build the roads. Fortunately, players can destroy and move them at any time or else just one mistake in building a house will result in a painful end.
Despite the reputation of being a real-time strategy game, the game is very bad. Melee groups can attack anything in front of them in three squares and, fortunately, the archers can attack a bit further. Players can still use common tactics to win or spam large numbers of players.
Multiplayer system is also a major defect of TWBS. Sega’s matchmaking system is poor so it’s hard to find a good fight and even if it does, the game is even more frustrating for players. There are no houses or resources to find: you will be given a certain number of soldiers and kill each other until a general is destroyed. Game’s advice is to stay away from the multiplayer if you can unless you want to throw the machine away.
Total War Battles Shogun is probably Sega’s failure on the mobile system, despite the long history of this game can be placed in the monument. Even though the graphics and sound are good, the gameplay is too much inadequate, plus the inferior Multi system can make you want to go crazy literally and not enjoy the game anymore.
where can you get a Total War online
Total War: Rome 2 – PC: Buy it now
Total War: Shogun 2 Gold – PC: Buy it now
Total War: Warhammer Limited Edition (PC): Buy it now
Table of Contents
Introduction
The “Total War” series, developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega, has been a staple in the strategy game genre since its inception in 2000. Known for its blend of turn-based strategy and real-time tactical battles, the series has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating various historical and fantasy settings. This comprehensive review will cover the key aspects of the series, including gameplay mechanics, historical accuracy, graphics, sound design, and its overall impact on the gaming industry.
Gameplay Mechanics
Turn-Based Strategy
The turn-based strategy component of the “Total War” series is where players manage their empires. This aspect of the game involves building and managing settlements, conducting diplomacy, managing finances, and moving armies across the campaign map. Each turn represents a period, varying from months to years depending on the game.
Settlement Management: In the “Total War” series, managing settlements is crucial for the growth and stability of an empire. Players must construct buildings that provide various benefits, such as economic boosts, military units, and public order improvements. Balancing these factors is essential to maintain a prosperous empire.
Diplomacy: Diplomacy plays a significant role in the series, allowing players to forge alliances, negotiate trade agreements, and declare war. The diplomacy system has evolved over the years, with more recent titles offering more nuanced options and AI behavior, making it a critical component of the strategic gameplay.
Economic Management: Economic management is another vital aspect, where players must balance income and expenditures to maintain a stable economy. This includes managing taxes, trade, and resource production. A strong economy is necessary to fund armies, construct buildings, and expand the empire.
Army Movement: Moving armies across the campaign map is a strategic endeavor, as players must consider factors such as terrain, supply lines, and enemy positions. Proper positioning and movement can make the difference between victory and defeat in the ensuing battles.
Real-Time Tactical Battles
The real-time tactical battles are the hallmark of the “Total War” series. These battles allow players to control thousands of units on a detailed battlefield, utilizing tactics and strategy to achieve victory.
Unit Types and Variety: The series features a wide variety of units, including infantry, cavalry, archers, and artillery. Each unit type has its strengths and weaknesses, and effective use of unit variety is crucial for success. The introduction of hero units and unique faction-specific units in later titles added further depth and diversity to the battles.
Tactical Depth: The tactical depth of battles in the “Total War” series is unparalleled. Players must consider factors such as unit positioning, terrain, formations, and morale. Flanking maneuvers, ambushes, and strategic use of terrain can turn the tide of battle. The inclusion of siege battles, where players must capture or defend fortified positions, adds another layer of complexity.
Battle Mechanics: The battle mechanics have seen numerous improvements over the years. Early titles focused on basic unit interactions, while later games introduced more sophisticated mechanics such as unit fatigue, morale effects, and complex AI behaviors. These enhancements have made the battles more dynamic and realistic.
Historical Accuracy and Settings
One of the distinguishing features of the “Total War” series is its commitment to historical accuracy. Each game is set in a different historical period or fantasy world, and the developers have gone to great lengths to recreate these settings faithfully.
Historical Titles
Shogun: Total War (2000) and Shogun 2: Total War (2011): The series began with “Shogun: Total War,” set in feudal Japan during the Sengoku period. This was followed by “Shogun 2: Total War,” which revisited the same setting with enhanced graphics and gameplay mechanics. Both games are praised for their attention to detail and authenticity in depicting Japanese culture and warfare.
Medieval: Total War (2002) and Medieval II: Total War (2006): The medieval period has been a popular setting for the series, with “Medieval: Total War” and its sequel offering a detailed portrayal of Europe during the Middle Ages. These games feature a wide array of factions, from Western European kingdoms to Middle Eastern sultanates, each with unique units and buildings.
Rome: Total War (2004) and Rome II: Total War (2013): Set in the classical period, the “Rome: Total War” games focus on the rise and expansion of the Roman Republic and Empire. These titles are known for their extensive campaign maps, covering the entirety of Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. The games strive to capture the political intrigue and military strategies of ancient Rome.
Empire: Total War (2009): “Empire: Total War” takes place during the 18th century, a period marked by colonial expansion and the rise of gunpowder warfare. This game introduced naval battles and a global campaign map, allowing players to control empires spanning multiple continents.
Napoleon: Total War (2010): Focusing on the Napoleonic Wars, this title offers a detailed portrayal of early 19th-century warfare. The game emphasizes the tactical use of line infantry, artillery, and cavalry, reflecting the military doctrines of the period.
Total War: Three Kingdoms (2019): Set in China during the turbulent Three Kingdoms period, this game combines historical authenticity with elements from Chinese literature and mythology. The game features a detailed campaign map of China and a focus on the personalities and rivalries of the era’s warlords.
Fantasy Titles
Total War: Warhammer Trilogy (2016-2022): The “Total War: Warhammer” trilogy represents the series’ foray into fantasy. Set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe, these games combine the strategic depth of “Total War” with the rich lore and fantastical elements of Warhammer. Players can control factions ranging from human empires to undead legions and monstrous beasts, each with unique units and abilities.
Total War Saga: Troy (2020): This title blends historical and mythological elements, set during the Trojan War. While based on the legendary conflict, the game incorporates mythological creatures and heroes, offering a unique take on the “Total War” formula.
Graphics and Visual Design
Evolution of Graphics
The “Total War” series has seen significant graphical improvements over the years. Early titles like “Shogun: Total War” featured simple 2D sprites and basic 3D models, while later games have pushed the boundaries of visual fidelity.
Unit Detail and Animation: Recent titles boast highly detailed unit models and fluid animations. Each unit is meticulously designed, from the armor and weapons to the facial features and clothing. The animations are smooth and realistic, enhancing the immersion during battles.
Environmental Graphics: The environmental graphics have also evolved, with detailed terrain, dynamic weather effects, and realistic lighting. The campaign maps are richly detailed, capturing the geographical and cultural diversity of the game’s setting. Battles take place in varied environments, from lush forests and rolling plains to desolate deserts and snow-covered mountains.
Siege and Settlement Design: The design of sieges and settlements has become more complex, with detailed fortifications, destructible buildings, and intricate layouts. The graphical enhancements in these areas add to the strategic depth and visual appeal of the games.
Sound Design and Music
Sound Effects
The sound design in the “Total War” series is critical to its immersive experience. The sound effects, from the clash of swords and the roar of cannons to the shouts of soldiers and the ambient noises of the environment, are meticulously crafted to create a realistic atmosphere.
Battlefield Sounds: The sounds of battle are particularly impressive, with dynamic audio that responds to the action on screen. The impact of weapons, the cries of the wounded, and the commands of officers all contribute to the intensity of the battles.
Campaign Map Audio: The campaign map features ambient sounds that reflect the setting, such as birds chirping in the forests, the hustle and bustle of cities, and the sounds of the sea. These subtle audio cues enhance the sense of place and immersion.
Music
The music in the “Total War” series is another standout feature, with each game boasting a unique and evocative soundtrack that complements its setting.
Original Scores: The original scores are composed to match the tone and atmosphere of the game. From the traditional Japanese instruments in “Shogun 2” to the epic orchestral pieces in “Rome II,” the music adds emotional weight to the gameplay.
Dynamic Soundtracks: The dynamic soundtracks respond to the gameplay, with different tracks playing during the campaign map and battles. The music shifts in intensity based on the action, heightening the tension during critical moments.
Replayability and Longevity
Diverse Campaigns
One of the key strengths of the “Total War” series is its replayability. Each game offers multiple factions, each with unique units, buildings, and campaign objectives. This diversity encourages players to replay the campaigns, exploring different strategies and playstyles.
Modding Community: The modding community has also played a significant role in the longevity of the series. Creative Assembly has supported modding in many of its titles, leading to a wealth of user-generated content. Mods can range from simple tweaks and new units to comprehensive overhauls and total conversions, adding endless variety and extending the lifespan of the games.
Multiplayer: Multiplayer is another important aspect, allowing players to compete against each other in custom battles and campaign scenarios. The competitive and cooperative multiplayer modes offer additional challenges and replayability.
Critical Reception and Impact
Critical Acclaim
The “Total War” series has generally received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of strategy and tactics, historical accuracy, and immersive gameplay. Each title has been praised for its unique contributions to the series and the genre.
Awards and Recognition:
- Shogun: Total War and its sequel Shogun 2: Total War were lauded for their groundbreaking approach to combining turn-based strategy with real-time tactical battles. Shogun 2, in particular, won several Game of the Year awards in the strategy category.
- Medieval: Total War and Medieval II: Total War received praise for their detailed representation of the medieval period, earning accolades for Best Strategy Game and Best PC Game from various gaming publications.
- Rome: Total War is often cited as a genre-defining game, receiving multiple awards for its depth, historical accuracy, and innovative gameplay. It has frequently been included in lists of the greatest games of all time.
- Empire: Total War introduced naval battles and a global campaign, earning it awards for Best Strategy Game and commendations for its ambition and execution.
- Napoleon: Total War was praised for its focus on the Napoleonic Wars and its improvements to the core gameplay mechanics, receiving several Best Strategy Game nominations.
- Total War: Warhammer and its sequels were recognized for successfully integrating the Warhammer Fantasy universe with the Total War formula, winning awards for Best Strategy Game and Best Adaptation.
Evolution and Innovations
The “Total War” series has continually evolved, introducing new mechanics, settings, and features that have kept the franchise fresh and engaging.
Technological Advancements
The series has leveraged advancements in technology to enhance its gameplay and presentation. From the basic 2D sprites of the original Shogun to the highly detailed 3D models and expansive campaign maps of the latest titles, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in strategy games.
AI Improvements: The artificial intelligence in the “Total War” series has seen significant improvements over the years. Early titles featured relatively simple AI, while later games have incorporated more sophisticated behaviors and decision-making processes. The AI in recent games can manage complex strategies, provide more challenging opposition, and react dynamically to the player’s actions.
Graphical Enhancements: Each new game in the series has brought graphical enhancements, from improved textures and lighting to more detailed unit models and realistic environmental effects. These improvements have not only made the games more visually appealing but have also contributed to the immersion and realism of the experience.
Gameplay Innovations
Naval Battles: Introduced in Empire: Total War, naval battles added a new dimension to the series. Players can command fleets in real-time battles, considering wind direction, ship types, and tactical maneuvers. This feature was further refined in subsequent titles, such as Napoleon: Total War.
Hero Units and Unique Abilities: The Warhammer trilogy introduced hero units with unique abilities, adding an RPG-like element to the battles. These heroes can turn the tide of battle with their powerful skills and spells, providing new strategic options and challenges.
Dynamic Campaign Maps: Later games in the series have featured dynamic campaign maps, where player actions can have lasting effects on the world. For example, razing a city in one game can lead to long-term changes in the region’s political and economic landscape. These dynamic elements add depth and replayability to the campaigns.
Community and Modding
The “Total War” community has played a significant role in the series’ success and longevity. Creative Assembly’s support for modding has led to a vibrant community of modders who have created a wide range of content, from minor tweaks to total conversions.
Popular Mods
Roma Surrectum and Europa Barbarorum are among the most popular mods for Rome: Total War, enhancing the game with new units, factions, and historical accuracy.
Stainless Steel and Third Age: Total War for Medieval II: Total War are renowned for their comprehensive overhauls, with the latter transforming the game into a richly detailed recreation of Middle-earth from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.”
DarthMod for various titles aims to improve the AI, balance, and realism of the games, offering a more challenging and immersive experience.
Community Engagement
Creative Assembly has actively engaged with the community through forums, social media, and events. They have taken player feedback into account for patches and updates, fostering a collaborative relationship with their fanbase. This engagement has helped to build a loyal and passionate community that continues to support the series.
Legacy and Influence
The “Total War” series has had a profound impact on the strategy game genre, influencing numerous other games and developers. Its unique blend of turn-based strategy and real-time tactics has inspired similar mechanics in other titles, and its emphasis on historical accuracy and depth has set a benchmark for the genre.
Influence on Other Games
Games like “Civilization” and “Europa Universalis” have drawn inspiration from the strategic depth and historical settings of the “Total War” series. The combination of grand strategy and tactical battles has also influenced newer titles, such as “Total War: Three Kingdoms” and “Total War: Warhammer,” which have built on the foundations laid by the earlier games.
Educational Use
The series has also found a place in education, with teachers and historians using the games as tools to explore historical events and periods. The detailed representations of historical settings and events provide an engaging way to learn about history, making the games valuable educational resources.
Future of the Series
Creative Assembly has shown a commitment to evolving the “Total War” series, with plans for new titles and expansions. The studio has hinted at exploring new historical periods and settings, as well as continuing to refine and innovate the gameplay mechanics.
Upcoming Titles: While specifics about future releases are often kept under wraps until official announcements, fans can expect the series to continue expanding its horizons. Whether revisiting popular historical settings or exploring new ones, the “Total War” series is poised to remain a leading force in the strategy game genre.
Technological Innovations: With the advancement of technology, future “Total War” games are likely to feature even more impressive graphics, AI improvements, and gameplay innovations. The potential for more realistic and immersive experiences is vast, and Creative Assembly is well-positioned to capitalize on these advancements.
Conclusion
The “Total War” series has established itself as a cornerstone of the strategy game genre, known for its deep gameplay, historical accuracy, and innovative mechanics. From its early days with “Shogun: Total War” to the expansive and detailed worlds of the Warhammer trilogy, the series has continually evolved and set new standards for what strategy games can achieve.
Strengths:
- Deep and Engaging Gameplay: The combination of turn-based strategy and real-time tactical battles offers a rich and rewarding experience.
- Historical and Fantasy Settings: The series’ commitment to historical accuracy and its forays into fantasy settings provide diverse and immersive worlds.
- Graphics and Sound Design: High-quality visuals and sound design contribute to the overall immersion and realism of the games.
- Community and Modding Support: A vibrant modding community and active engagement from the developers have extended the series’ longevity and appeal.
Areas for Improvement:
- Learning Curve: The complexity of the games can be daunting for newcomers, requiring time and patience to master.
- AI and Diplomacy: While improved over the years, AI and diplomacy mechanics can still be inconsistent and sometimes frustrating.
In summary, the “Total War” series is a monumental achievement in the world of strategy games, offering players unparalleled depth, challenge, and enjoyment. Its impact on the genre and its enduring popularity are testaments to its quality and innovation. As the series continues to evolve, it promises to deliver even more memorable and engaging experiences for strategy enthusiasts.