Explore Ancient Rome in Anno 117: Pax Romana’s New Sandbox

Anno 117: Pax Romana, the latest installment in the acclaimed Anno series, invites players into the world of ancient Rome during a period of relative peace and prosperity. Set for release in March 2024, this game combines strategic city-building with historical depth, appealing to both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. The developers at Ubisoft Mainz have focused on enhancing accessibility while maintaining the series’ hallmark complexity.

Engaging Gameplay and Narrative

The campaign of Anno 117 begins uniquely, with players assuming the role of a bride to a provincial ruler. As the narrative unfolds, players must manage the territory in the absence of their husband. The initial hours serve as a comprehensive tutorial, guiding users through the essentials of construction and economic management. This structured introduction is reminiscent of popular strategy games, with well-crafted dialogue and engaging characters.

Players can also explore the new sandbox mode, which allows for a choice of starting locations, including the less developed region of Albion and the more established trade hub of Italy. This flexibility not only enriches the gameplay experience but also caters to different play styles, whether one prefers a challenging start or a more straightforward approach.

Visual Enhancements and Historical Authenticity

Visually, Anno 117 represents a significant leap forward. The graphics are described as lush and detailed, creating a believable environment that immerses players in the ancient world. The series has a history of integrating historically accurate elements, and this title continues that tradition, albeit with some creative liberties.

Since the release of Anno 1800 in 2019, which garnered a loyal following and extensive downloadable content, Anno 117 is poised to rekindle interest in the franchise. The balance between depth and accessibility has been a focal point, aiming to broaden the audience and draw in new players.

As the city-building genre experiences a renaissance, with innovative games like Manor Lords emerging, Anno 117: Pax Romana stands out as a title with great potential. The combination of a rich historical setting and enhanced gameplay mechanics positions it as a noteworthy addition to the genre. Players eagerly await the full release, keen to explore the possibilities of building and managing their own Roman civilization.

“With an engaging ancient setting, Anno 117: Pax Romana is definitely a city builder with potential.”

The game is shaping up to be an intriguing mix of history and strategy, appealing to both seasoned players and those new to city builders. The anticipation surrounding its launch reflects a growing excitement for what promises to be a compelling entry in the Anno series.