Publisher: GSC Game World

Cossacks: European Wars (2001)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Cossacks: European Wars is a real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by GSC Game World and published by CDV Software Entertainment. It was released for Microsoft Windows in 2001. The game is set in the 17th and 18th centuries of Europe, and features 16 playable nations, each with its own unique units, buildings, and technologies.

Gameplay

Cossacks: European Wars is a traditional RTS game, in which players must gather resources, build a base, and train an army to defeat their opponents. The game features a unique “resource gathering” system, in which peasants must be assigned to gather resources from specific locations on the map. This system adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, as players must carefully manage their resources in order to succeed.

Cossacks: European Wars is also known for its large-scale battles, which can involve thousands of units. The game’s AI is also very good, and provides a challenging experience for even the most experienced RTS players.

Historical Setting

Cossacks: European Wars is set during a period of great upheaval in Europe. The Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648) had just ended, and the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) was about to begin. These wars saw the rise of new powers, such as France and Prussia, and the decline of others, such as Spain and Austria.

The game features 16 playable nations, each of which represents a major power of the time period. These nations include:

  • Austria
  • France
  • Great Britain
  • Prussia
  • Russia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Turkey

Each nation has its own unique units, buildings, and technologies. For example, the French have a strong cavalry force, while the Russians have a powerful infantry force.

Reception

Cossacks: European Wars was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its large-scale battles, detailed graphics, and historical setting. It was also praised for its challenging AI.

The game won several awards, including the “Best RTS Game of the Year” award from GameSpot. It was also nominated for the “Game of the Year” award from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.

Legacy

Cossacks: European Wars is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made. It is still played by many people today, and it has spawned several sequels and expansion packs.

The game’s legacy is due to its unique gameplay, detailed graphics, and historical setting. It is a game that is both fun and educational, and it is sure to appeal to fans of RTS games and history buffs alike.

Additional Information

  • Cossacks: European Wars was developed by GSC Game World, a Ukrainian video game developer.
  • The game was released for Microsoft Windows in 2001.
  • The game features 16 playable nations, each with its own unique units, buildings, and technologies.
  • The game is set in the 17th and 18th centuries of Europe.
  • The game was a critical and commercial success.
  • The game has spawned several sequels and expansion packs.

Conclusion

Cossacks: European Wars is a classic RTS game that still holds up today. With its large-scale battles, detailed graphics, and historical setting, it is a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Cossacks: The Art of War (2002)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Cossacks: The Art of War is a real-time strategy game developed by GSC Game World and published by CDV Software Entertainment. It was released for Microsoft Windows in 2002. The game is set in the 17th and 18th centuries and allows players to control one of 16 different nations, each with its own unique units and abilities.

Cossacks: The Art of War is a complex and challenging game that requires players to master a variety of skills in order to be successful. These skills include resource management, unit control, and map awareness. The game also features a number of different game modes, including single-player campaigns, multiplayer matches, and a scenario editor.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Cossacks: The Art of War is similar to other real-time strategy games. Players start by gathering resources, such as wood, food, and gold. These resources are used to build structures, train units, and research upgrades. Players must also explore the map to find new resources and enemy settlements.

Once players have built up their economy and army, they can begin to attack their enemies. Combat in Cossacks: The Art of War is realistic and deadly. Units can be killed in a single shot, so players must be careful to position their units and use cover to their advantage.

Cossacks: The Art of War also features a number of unique gameplay mechanics. One of these mechanics is the ability to control individual units. This allows players to micro-manage their units and perform complex maneuvers. Another unique mechanic is the ability to build and upgrade fortifications. Fortifications can be used to defend against enemy attacks and to provide a base of operations for your army.

Nations

There are 16 different nations to choose from in Cossacks: The Art of War. Each nation has its own unique units and abilities. Some of the nations include:

  • England: England has a strong navy and a variety of powerful infantry units.
  • France: France has a well-rounded army with a strong emphasis on cavalry.
  • Spain: Spain has a powerful artillery force and a number of unique units, such as the conquistadors.
  • Austria: Austria has a strong economy and a variety of defensive units.
  • Russia: Russia has a large and powerful army with a strong emphasis on infantry.
  • Poland: Poland has a fast and agile army with a strong emphasis on cavalry.
  • Sweden: Sweden has a powerful navy and a number of unique units, such as the Caroleans.
  • Prussia: Prussia has a well-trained and disciplined army with a strong emphasis on infantry.

Campaigns

Cossacks: The Art of War features five single-player campaigns. Each campaign tells a different story and features a variety of different missions. The campaigns are:

  • The Great Northern War: This campaign follows the Swedish Empire as it fights against Russia, Poland, and Denmark.
  • The War of the Spanish Succession: This campaign follows the Spanish Empire as it fights against France, England, and Austria.
  • The War of the Austrian Succession: This campaign follows the Austrian Empire as it fights against Prussia, France, and Bavaria.
  • The Seven Years’ War: This campaign follows the Prussian Empire as it fights against Austria, France, and Russia.
  • The American Revolutionary War: This campaign follows the American colonies as they fight for independence from Great Britain.

Multiplayer

Cossacks: The Art of War features a robust multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. Multiplayer matches can be played with up to 8 players. Players can choose to play on a variety of different maps and can set up their own custom rules.

Scenario Editor

Cossacks: The Art of War also includes a scenario editor that allows players to create their own custom maps and scenarios. The scenario editor is easy to use and allows players to create a wide variety of different game experiences.

Reception

Cossacks: The Art of War was released to critical acclaim. The game was praised for its beautiful graphics, realistic gameplay, and vast array of units. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Cossacks: The Art of War is considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made. The game has been praised for its realism, depth, and replayability. Cossacks: The Art of War has also been credited with popularizing the historical real-time strategy genre.

Conclusion

Cossacks: The Art of War is a classic real-time strategy game that offers a deep and rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. The game’s beautiful graphics, realistic gameplay, and vast array of units make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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American Conquest: Fight Back (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

American Conquest: Fight Back – A Real-Time Strategy Gem

Released in 2003, American Conquest: Fight Back is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that takes players on a journey through three centuries of warfare in the Americas. Players can lead armies of thousands of troops to victory in large-scale battles, spanning from the Spanish conquest of the Aztec and Maya civilizations to the Pontiac Uprising and the Russian conquest of Alaska.

Gameplay

American Conquest: Fight Back is not your standard RTS game. There is no simple build-send-and-forget strategy here. Even the largest army can be defeated by a well-coordinated, but relatively small force. As the old proverb says: “An army of sheep led by a lion would defeat an army of lions led by a sheep.”

This is because American Conquest: Fight Back places a heavy emphasis on unit tactics and formations. Players must carefully position their units on the battlefield and use their unique abilities to their advantage. For example, cavalry units are effective against infantry, but they are vulnerable to ranged attacks. Artillery units can deal devastating damage from afar, but they are slow and cumbersome.

Players must also manage their resources carefully. Food is essential for training new units, while wood and metal are needed to construct buildings and fortifications. Players must also keep an eye on their population limit, as they can only support a certain number of units at a time.

Campaigns

American Conquest: Fight Back features four campaigns, each of which tells a different story. The first campaign, “The Spanish Conquest,” follows the Spanish conquistadors as they conquer the Aztec and Maya civilizations. The second campaign, “The German Dream,” follows the German colonists as they search for the legendary El Dorado. The third campaign, “The Pontiac Uprising,” follows the Native American leader Pontiac as he leads a rebellion against the British. The fourth campaign, “The Russian Conquest,” follows the Russian explorers as they conquer Alaska.

Each campaign is divided into a number of missions, each of which has its own unique objectives. Players must complete the objectives in order to progress through the campaign. The missions are varied and challenging, and they offer a great deal of replayability.

Multiplayer

American Conquest: Fight Back also features a multiplayer mode, which allows players to compete against each other online. Players can choose from a variety of maps and game modes, and they can customize their armies to suit their own play style.

The multiplayer mode is a great way to test your skills against other players. It is also a great way to learn new strategies and tactics.

Graphics and Sound

American Conquest: Fight Back features impressive graphics for its time. The game’s environments are detailed and realistic, and the unit models are well-animated. The game’s sound effects are also top-notch, and the music is suitably epic.

Overall

American Conquest: Fight Back is a must-play for strategy fans. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a great deal of replayability. The game’s emphasis on unit tactics and formations makes it stand out from other RTS games, and the four campaigns offer a variety of different experiences. Whether you are a seasoned RTS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, American Conquest: Fight Back is a game that you should definitely check out.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

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Cossacks 3 (2016)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Cossacks 3: A Triumphant Return to Epic Historical Warfare

Introduction

Cossacks 3, the latest installment in the long-running historical real-time strategy (RTS) series, is a triumphant return to form for the franchise. Released in 2016, Cossacks 3 is a masterful blend of classic RTS gameplay with modern graphics and features, offering players an unparalleled experience of large-scale historical warfare.

Historical Authenticity and Detail

Cossacks 3 is meticulously crafted to provide an immersive and authentic historical experience. Set in the 17th and 18th centuries, the game features twelve playable nations, including the Cossacks, the Ottoman Empire, the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the Swedish Empire. Each nation has its unique units, buildings, and technologies, reflecting their historical strengths and weaknesses.

The game world is meticulously detailed, with over 140 historically accurate buildings and structures. From towering castles and bustling towns to humble farms and windmills, every element contributes to the game’s rich and immersive atmosphere.

Epic Battles and Tactical Gameplay

Cossacks 3 shines in its epic battles, which can feature up to 10,000 units clashing on a single battlefield. The game’s AI is top-notch, providing a challenging and engaging experience for players of all skill levels.

Battles are not simply about amassing the largest army; tactical considerations are crucial to victory. Players must carefully manage their resources, position their units effectively, and exploit the terrain to their advantage. The game’s detailed physics system adds an extra layer of realism, with cannonballs and musket fire having a devastating impact on the battlefield.

Resource Management and Economic Development

Cossacks 3 features a deep and engaging resource management and economic development system. Players must gather resources such as wood, stone, and metal to construct buildings, produce units, and research new technologies.

The game’s economy is complex and nuanced, requiring players to carefully balance their resource production with their military spending. Trade is also an important aspect of the game, allowing players to acquire resources that are scarce in their own territories.

Extensive Single-Player and Multiplayer Content

Cossacks 3 offers a wealth of content for both single-player and multiplayer enthusiasts. The single-player campaign spans five historical campaigns, each with its unique objectives and challenges. Players can also engage in custom battles against the AI or against other players online.

Multiplayer is supported for up to eight players on a single map, allowing for epic clashes between massive armies. Players can choose to cooperate or compete against each other in a variety of game modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and king of the hill.

Stunning Graphics and Immersive Audio

Cossacks 3 is a visually stunning game that brings the battlefields of the 17th and 18th centuries to life. The game’s graphics engine is capable of rendering vast landscapes with incredible detail, from rolling hills and lush forests to snow-covered plains and arid deserts.

The game’s audio is equally impressive, with realistic sound effects and a stirring orchestral soundtrack that enhances the immersive experience.

Conclusion

Cossacks 3 is a masterpiece of historical RTS gaming. With its epic battles, detailed historical setting, and engaging resource management system, the game offers players an unparalleled experience of warfare in the age of muskets and cannons. Whether you’re a seasoned RTS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Cossacks 3 is a must-play title that will provide hours of thrilling and immersive gameplay.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Heroes of Annihilated Empires (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Heroes of Annihilated Empires: A Triumphant Fusion of RTS and RPG

Released in 2006, Heroes of Annihilated Empires is a groundbreaking fantasy trilogy that seamlessly blends the genres of real-time strategy (RTS) and role-playing game (RPG). Set on the mythical island of Atlans, the game immerses players in a living, breathing world teeming with magic, mythical creatures, and heroes embroiled in an epic conflict that spans centuries.

A Realm of Enchantment and Conflict

Atlans, the ancestral home of the elves, serves as the backdrop for the first episode of Heroes of Annihilated Empires. This vast and vibrant world is a tapestry of ancient forests, towering mountains, and shimmering rivers. It is a realm where the forces of good and evil clash in a struggle for dominance.

The conflict that engulfs Atlans has its roots in a forgotten past. Long ago, the island was shattered by a cataclysmic event, and the remnants of once-great empires now lie in ruins. Amidst this desolation, heroes emerge, each with their own unique abilities and motivations.

RTS and RPG Elements Intertwined

Heroes of Annihilated Empires masterfully combines the strategic elements of RTS with the character development and questing aspects of RPGs. Players take control of one of several heroes and lead them into battle against enemy armies and mythical creatures.

As in traditional RTS games, players must gather resources, construct buildings, and train units to build their armies. However, Heroes of Annihilated Empires adds a unique twist by allowing players to directly control their heroes on the battlefield. These heroes possess powerful abilities and spells that can turn the tide of battle.

In between battles, players can explore the world of Atlans, interact with NPCs, and embark on quests. These quests offer rewards such as experience points, gold, and powerful artifacts. By completing quests and defeating enemies, players can upgrade their heroes’ abilities, making them more formidable in combat.

A Living, Breathing World

One of the standout features of Heroes of Annihilated Empires is its living, breathing world. The game’s proprietary 3D engine brings Atlans to life with stunning detail. The world is populated by a variety of creatures, from friendly forest spirits to fearsome dragons.

The game’s AI is also highly advanced, ensuring that enemy units behave intelligently and adapt to the player’s strategies. This creates a challenging and engaging gameplay experience that keeps players on their toes.

Epic Battles and Unforgettable Heroes

Heroes of Annihilated Empires is renowned for its epic battles. Players can command vast armies of thousands of units, clashing in spectacular confrontations that test their strategic and tactical skills.

The game’s heroes are also memorable characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations. From the valiant elf ranger Aethorion to the cunning dark elf sorceress Lysseria, these heroes bring depth and personality to the game’s narrative.

A Trilogy of Epic Proportions

Heroes of Annihilated Empires is not just a single game, but a sprawling trilogy that tells a complex and engrossing story. Each episode introduces new heroes, new challenges, and new insights into the world of Atlans.

The first episode, released in 2006, sets the stage for the conflict that will unfold in the subsequent episodes. The second episode, released in 2007, expands the world of Atlans and introduces new factions and heroes. The third and final episode, released in 2008, brings the trilogy to a thrilling conclusion.

Legacy and Impact

Heroes of Annihilated Empires has left a lasting legacy in the world of gaming. Its innovative fusion of RTS and RPG elements has inspired numerous other games, and its epic battles and memorable heroes continue to captivate players to this day.

The game’s success is a testament to the skill and creativity of its developers, Nival Interactive. Nival has a long history of creating innovative and critically acclaimed games, including the Silent Storm series and Prime World.

Conclusion

Heroes of Annihilated Empires is a masterpiece of game design that combines the best elements of RTS and RPG genres. Its living, breathing world, epic battles, and unforgettable heroes have made it a classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned RTS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Heroes of Annihilated Empires is a game that is sure to captivate and entertain you.

Review Score

8.5/10

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American Conquest (2003)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

With its vast array of factions, attention to historical detail, and complex strategy mechanics, American Conquest stands as a noteworthy title in the RTS genre, offering both a challenging and educational experience.

Introduction

American Conquest is a real-time strategy game that offers players a deep dive into the colonization and conquest of the Americas. With a focus on historical accuracy and strategic depth, it has carved out a unique place in the strategy gaming landscape.

Synopsis

The game begins in the year 1492, with the player traveling to America as Christopher Columbus. This marks the start of 300 years of heated battles for land, riches, and freedom. The game spans eight historical campaigns with 42 missions, allowing players to command epic real-time battles with up to 16,000 soldiers on 3D landscapes.

The gameplay mechanics and economic factors of “American Conquest” are shared with the earlier GSC Game World title “Cossacks: European Wars” and its add-ons. The game allows the building of a base with which the player will conduct military and economic activities to prepare for victory in a scenario.

The game involves building dwellings for your peasant workforce and gathering resources like wood, food, gold, stone, coal, and iron from mines. These resources are used to construct buildings and maintain the army. Food may be harvested from either a mill or by hunting wild animals with specialized units.

“American Conquest” differs from “Cossacks” in that peasants are needed in the direct creation of military units. If no peasants are sent into forts, stables, or fortresses, no units may be trained. Upgrades which would boost the fighting capability as well as the training time of the army are also conducted at those buildings.

Forts and fortresses are central to the defense of any base and garrisoned troops will open fire on encroaching enemy units or wild animals. The common economic and scientific buildings in “American Conquest” may also be garrisoned by either peasants or by regulars of the army. An attacking army may also capture these garrisoned buildings by sending units into them and defeat its defenders in unseen hand-to-hand combat.

Players may also construct log cabins if playing for a European power where garrisoned units receive a bonus in its defense. Another feature of “American Conquest” is the morale factor.

In summary, “American Conquest” is a game that combines historical events with real-time strategy gameplay. It offers players a chance to rewrite history and experience the thrill of conquest and the challenge of defense. Whether you’re a fan of history or strategy games, “American Conquest” offers a unique gaming experience.

Characters

Players can control historical figures and lead factions like the British, Spanish, French, and various Native American tribes, each with unique units and strategies.

Gameplay

Featuring large-scale battles, resource management, and the need for strategic diplomacy, the game challenges players to not only fight but also to manage their empire wisely.

Conclusion

American Conquest offers a rich and challenging experience, blending historical accuracy with deep strategic gameplay.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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