Empire: Total War Review - A history lesson in bloodshed

Mike Bantick
Wednesday, 08 April 2009 03:57

Entertainment

And now, what you have all been waiting for, the naval engagements.  Previous games have glossed over navel encounters, with only the results being shown to players.  Empire though, glorifies the ship to ship combat on the high seas.

Playing the part of Admiral, as you would a General will cause calamity for your crews.  Manoeuvring is dependent on wind, not terrain, and understanding the capabilities of each ship and crew under your command are paramount to success.  Sailing ships in-line brings the broadsides to bear upon the enemy, with devastating effect.

In fact, a massive ship battle in full flight is a sight to behold.  Hull, mast and sail disintegrate under the barrage of shot from a man-o-war or rocket barge.  Close quarters battles, including boarding actions, or the crew leaping to a watery doom are brought to life in miniature. 

And the sounds of high seas encounter can get invigorating as cannons crash, rigging trundles and men shout.  In fact, with so many men, machines and gun-powder on show with this Total War outing, there is a lot of action going on.  Fans of the more sedate and positioning driven past games may find themselves flustered by the speed and sensory input of an Empire matchup.

If there is one thing that remains however, it is the time vampire manifestation of a Total War game.  This is RTS how it should be done, on a PC, but at the same time a Total War game harkens back to its Civilisation inspiration as a ‘just one more turn’ experience.   The candles will be burning low before the admiral retires to his hammock.

Phew – a long look at Empire: Total War.  For those that flipped straight to the last page for the score. Here is a summary paragraph.

Empire: Total War – It is an initially overwhelming experience that will ensnare you, suck your life, entertain and, yes, educate you leaving an indelible impression.

9.5 Plug Bayonet’s out of 10