Anno 117: Pax Romana - When in Rome, Build Cities and Break Bugs
A Roman Empire of Supply Chains and Sync Issues
Launch Day Larry
In the grand tradition of city-building games, Anno 117: Pax Romana invites players to don their togas and dive into the logistics-heavy world of ancient Rome. With a blend of familiar mechanics and fresh innovations, this latest installment in the Anno series promises a strategic experience that will have you plotting supply chains like a Roman senator plotting his next political move. But does it deliver an empire-worthy experience, or does it crumble under the weight of its own ambitions? Let’s find out.
Gameplay: Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day, But It Might Have Been Bugged
Anno 117: Pax Romana sticks to its roots with a focus on supply chains and transport routes, while introducing new features that streamline gameplay. The addition of extra buttons and subtle changes in mechanics are like finding a hidden aqueduct in your backyard—unexpected but welcome. Dynamic building placement adds a strategic layer, as players must consider the radius of effect for various buildings. It’s a bit like playing Tetris with Roman villas, but with more fire hazards.
However, the game isn’t without its issues. Co-op mode suffers from sync and disconnect problems, and core mechanics like unrest and happiness seem to have taken a holiday to the Colosseum. Bugs in building diagonally and pathfinding problems with fleets are as frustrating as a Roman chariot race with square wheels. Multiplayer mode is particularly affected, with disappearing deities and non-functional research adding to the chaos.
Despite these hiccups, the game offers significant customization options, allowing players to add enemies, extra players, and switch regions mid-game. It’s like having a buffet of city-building options, though some players find the AI as repetitive as a Roman soldier’s marching orders. The campaign, while featuring political intrigue and epic battles, may leave narrative enthusiasts feeling like they’ve been served a half-baked lasagna.
Graphics: A Visual Feast with a Side of Blurriness
Visually, Anno 117: Pax Romana is a treat for the eyes. The Roman and Celtic themes are beautifully executed, creating an immersive atmosphere that makes you want to don a laurel wreath and shout “Veni, Vidi, Vici!” The use of 4K native textures ensures that every pixel is as sharp as a gladiator’s sword, and the island visuals and weather effects are particularly impressive.
Yet, not all is perfect in this digital Rome. DLSS performance issues cause blurriness that can make you feel like you’ve had one too many goblets of wine. Linux users report lower performance compared to Windows, with screen content loading delays and frame rate drops that could make even the most patient Roman lose their toga. The graphical user interface also has its quirks, with trade screens cutting off like a Roman senator mid-speech.
Despite these challenges, the game runs smoothly on modern hardware, and the overall visual appeal is undeniable. However, the use of AI-generated art has been criticized for disrupting the visual identity, leaving players longing for the cohesive style that only human artists can provide.
Story: A Tale of Political Intrigue and Unfinished Business
Set in 117 AD, Anno 117: Pax Romana offers a unique twist on traditional fantasy narratives by focusing on logistics and supply chains rather than magical elements. The story centers around Marcia, a young girl caught in a dangerous political game, with a new and dangerous Emperor adding to the intrigue. It’s a setup that promises a rich narrative filled with political machinations and epic battles.
However, the story ends abruptly, leaving players feeling like they’ve been left at the altar. The lack of a climactic battle or resolution is as disappointing as finding out your favorite Roman bathhouse is closed for repairs. Unresolved plot threads and an abrupt transition into endless mode contribute to the dissatisfaction, with players fearing that missing content may be introduced later as paid DLC.
Despite these criticisms, the campaign’s initial acts are praised for their engaging introduction and potential for political intrigue. Yet, the lack of a clear and satisfying narrative conclusion remains a significant point of contention, leaving players wanting more from what could have been a richly woven tale.
Final Verdict
Anno 117: Pax Romana is a game of contrasts. Its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals are marred by technical issues and an unfinished story. Fans of the Anno series will find much to enjoy in its familiar yet refreshed mechanics, but the bugs and narrative shortcomings may frustrate those seeking a polished experience. With a bit more refinement, this could be a city-building classic worthy of the Roman Empire.
Score: 7/10