Anno 117: Pax Romana – Building a Roman Empire, the Ubisoft Way

Ubisoft's Anno series, a beloved name in city-building games, is setting its sights on Ancient Rome with Anno 117: Pax Romana. After the success of Anno 1800, which captivated players with the industrial revolution, the franchise is venturing into a highly anticipated historical setting. Will you be able to forge an empire from the ground up?

Game Rant spoke with game director Jan Dungel, unveiling details about the game's setting, research, and new features. The team's deep passion for Ancient Rome, fueled by hobbyists and archaeology experts, played a vital role in the game's development. Ubisoft also has done extensive research into the specific foods, gods, and customs of the era to bring the city to life. Did concrete exist in 117? The team asked questions like these to ground them.

One significant shift in Anno 117 is the approach to gameplay. Unlike previous installments with linear progression, Pax Romana offers choices. This deviation caters to both existing fans and newcomers, allowing players to tailor their experience without being forced into specific tasks. According to Dungel, player stats from previous Anno games show that forcing players to build on a new island leads to player drop off. Instead, Ubisoft created moments for players to choose to stay longer or travel to a new province.

The simultaneously release on PC and Consoles will be achieved with the help of learnings from Anno 1800's console adaptation. The team focused on user interface and control scheme adjustments for console players. The game will feature multiplayer and the cooperative mode, but details are sparse on the combat and narrative.

Ars Technica had the opportunity to test out Anno 117 and has said the game is gorgeous to look at. The game has unique gameplay and top-tier presentation that has the potential to appeal to people. Anno 117 seems to be just the right challenge. It is relaxing, intuitive, and smooth once learned.

It is worth noting the main selling point for Anno 117 vs any other game, is that it is the Roman Empire. It has top-notch artistic and technical presentation, which makes it one of the strongest components of the game. In addition, they come with new game mechanics to make the game different and fun. A new religion system, A robust reseatch tree, and the return of ground-based military forces.

PCGamesN notes that this new Ubisoft RTS game may be more that just Cities Skylines in Rome. Cites Skylines 2 looks grey and unsaturated while kaiserpunk looks good at the micro level. Anno 117 blends economic and pastoral gameplay with a war-driven context. With a vibrant look and feel, the game provides visual energy.

Ubisoft hands you the role of governor on an island outpost of the Roman Empire. Your goal is three fold, to build a great city, create a thriving agriculture and industry sector, and connect with leaders of satellite communities on neighboring islands. Anno 117 is considered more than an Anno Reskin.

The anticipation for Anno 117: Pax Romana is mounting. With its deep mechanics, stunning visuals, and the allure of the Roman Empire, the game holds immense promise. Will the setting and revamped gameplay appeal to both veterans and newcomers?

What are your thoughts on Anno 117: Pax Romana? Share your predictions and expectations in the comments below!

• Anno 117: Pax Romana
• City-Building
• Ubisoft

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