Empire: Total War

 PC
  • Publisher: Sega
  • Release Date: Mar 3, 2009
User Score
7.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 3194 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,895 out of 3194
  2. Mixed: 545 out of 3194
  3. Negative: 754 out of 3194
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  1. Ajdino
    Sep 28, 2012
    10
    Hey, how about a 2012 update, huh? I'm shocked at coming on Metacritic to see such low scores for a game I've owned for a long time now, that I adore. There is NO bugs, some of these reviews are absolutely outdated and unreliable. In my opinion, this is the most playable of all the Total War games. The tech branches are much more expansive and really do progress as time goes on and theHey, how about a 2012 update, huh? I'm shocked at coming on Metacritic to see such low scores for a game I've owned for a long time now, that I adore. There is NO bugs, some of these reviews are absolutely outdated and unreliable. In my opinion, this is the most playable of all the Total War games. The tech branches are much more expansive and really do progress as time goes on and the campaign was fantastic. I felt like I was rewriting my text books. It's also one of the more colorful TW games, because it covers such an active century of domination and war. Napoleon felt sort of like a plus 20 year map pack to this gem. This game is just as good as any other TW game, it really is a shame that people wrote hundreds and hundreds of reviews within the first couple of months of the games release, yet when the game is "Fixed" (Because I never played it when it was supposedly bugged) everyone just lose interest in lifting a finger for a new review. I'll simply put it this way, this game is worth every dollar, pound, or euro it costs.… Expand
  2. Bobbo
    Jun 3, 2012
    8
    An original franchise, a fine game, but dumbed down from Medieval 2 Total War. More realism is better, not less. Multiplayer campaign mode would be nice.
  3. JoshL
    Apr 3, 2009
    9
    MY SHORT REVIEW: First of all, for all those complaining of glitches and crashes, don't be so ungrateful and impatient. The game has crashed 3 times for me in 1 month of hardcore gameplay. If you can't cope with expected issues, don't buy the game. Nevertheless, Empire: Total War is one of the most enjoyable experiences in gaming you will ever come across. Yes, there are a MY SHORT REVIEW: First of all, for all those complaining of glitches and crashes, don't be so ungrateful and impatient. The game has crashed 3 times for me in 1 month of hardcore gameplay. If you can't cope with expected issues, don't buy the game. Nevertheless, Empire: Total War is one of the most enjoyable experiences in gaming you will ever come across. Yes, there are a few bugs in it (no not many), and for a title with such massive scope, that should be expected. But these problems are minor and simply annoyances, they can only detract a small amount from an overall pleasant presentation. The naval and land battles are fantastic, incorporating a mix of cannons, cavalry, infantry and battleships. The graphics are amazing on high or ultra, and it certainly lives up to it's reputation in turn based mode. Camera options are redefined, mini-maps are more detailed than before, AI has been improved - what else can you ask for? There is excessive demand on developers to produce a perfect game to the modern market. In my opinion, there are limited flaws in the game itself, and perhaps more with installation. I found Steam to be a terrible hassle, and quite unecessary. Suppose someone didn't have access to the internet but liked playing video games. "The creative assembly" is losing a lot of business by using this idiotic method of signing up. However, Steam can have some advantages, giving users regular updates for patches and new features. The historical accuracy of the game is something many people forget, or take for granted. This a key focus of the Total War series, making education fun. It opens our minds to the realms of 18th century mentality and the progress of the industrial revolution. It broadens our intelligence and understanding of contemporary society in relation to our past. This is what sums it up as a classic. In the end, much enhancement has been added since Medieval: II Total War, and this is, at least by me, appreciated.… Expand
  4. Harle
    Mar 20, 2009
    10
    Brilliant game, the depth exceeds the previous Total War titles by leaps abound. The somewhat cartoony approach to history that the older games featured has been done away with for a much more serious feel, and it's pulled off very well; even if it isn't perfectly historically accurate, compared to previous games it is apples and oranges. This is not only by far the best Total Brilliant game, the depth exceeds the previous Total War titles by leaps abound. The somewhat cartoony approach to history that the older games featured has been done away with for a much more serious feel, and it's pulled off very well; even if it isn't perfectly historically accurate, compared to previous games it is apples and oranges. This is not only by far the best Total War game to date, it may very well be the best strategy game in recent years. Yes, the game was released with bugs, but I don't feel that the game itself can be rated based on bug issues. Some people are giving it low scores because they are frustrated with bugs, but I prefer to rate based on content. It might be worth waiting a month or two past release, but the fact is that it runs more than playably for most people, and the bugs will get ironed out. Also, for other people, please stop rating games based on their performance. It's like saying that Disneyland sucks because your plane was delayed. Rate on content.… Expand
  5. NathanH
    May 27, 2009
    9
    Great addition to the series, if your computer is reasonably up to date that is. My computer is a good distance below the recommended requirements, yet I can still play relatively well on all Medium settings with a reasonably good resolution. However, just being on medium still presents a rather fantastic experience. Steam is rather annoying but it works well enough with the game. Most of Great addition to the series, if your computer is reasonably up to date that is. My computer is a good distance below the recommended requirements, yet I can still play relatively well on all Medium settings with a reasonably good resolution. However, just being on medium still presents a rather fantastic experience. Steam is rather annoying but it works well enough with the game. Most of the AI and major gameplay issues seem to be shriveling up as Steam does it's consistent small updates that CA seems willing to pump out. An altogether fantastic game if your computer has the sacs to take it on, however, it would make sense if you decided to wait a month or so for more of the updates to stream through. I didn't wait, however I'm still perfectly happy with what I've got. Right now I say a 9, but give it a while and that may go up even further.… Expand
  6. widez
    Mar 10, 2012
    9
    I just finished playing another long campaign in this game after having reinstalled it again some weeks ago and so I thought I should do a review of this game, having played it for over 350 hours in all.
    This is one epic game overall. The move to the age of muskets, rifles and cannons is a very welcome addition to the Total War franchise. The real time battles are stunningly awesome. Both    I just finished playing another long campaign in this game after having reinstalled it again some weeks ago and so I thought I should do a review of this game, having played it for over 350 hours in all.
    This is one epic game overall. The move to the age of muskets, rifles and cannons is a very welcome addition to the Total War franchise. The real time battles are stunningly awesome. Both land and sea battles are fun to play. They have really great graphics and seeing your units and ships fire off volleys of death never gets old. The campaign map is also nice and works smoothly most of the time. Sound is great throughout the whole game from the soundtrack to the sound of cannon fire to the command acknowledgements of your units. UI looks great and is very friendly.
    I would say Empire is definitely on par with Rome and Medieval2 when it comes to Total War games and epicness and awesomeness. There are a few annoyances with the game though of course. The well documented initial legion of bugs that the game was released with are now mostly gone but you can still get some CTDs occasionally. Diplomacy and AI leave a lot to be desired but what else is new about Total War games? Rakes are almost useless, small ships fire longer than bigger ships, some factions have too few unique units, France is represented by a single region etc etc. There are a lot of minor stuff that you can complain about but with a game this big in scope it is only natural.
    Empire: Total War is one of my favorite games from recent years and I probably won't stop playing it until I have played all the major factions in it.    … Expand
  7. keefbaker
    Nov 4, 2013
    8
    While I own most of the total war games they tend to not do much for me. This one was the exception really. Superb engine, great tech tree and atmosphere. Good stuff
  8. GamerLegend
    Feb 12, 2012
    8
    This was my first Total War game and one of my very first pc games. Overall this is a fun game that includes much planning and strategy in order to succeed in. There are many different nation to choose and campaigns to play which adds a lot of variety to the overall gameplay. The multiplayer is fun but a bit glitchy like failing to join a game or random freezes and disconnections. YourThis was my first Total War game and one of my very first pc games. Overall this is a fun game that includes much planning and strategy in order to succeed in. There are many different nation to choose and campaigns to play which adds a lot of variety to the overall gameplay. The multiplayer is fun but a bit glitchy like failing to join a game or random freezes and disconnections. Your units in battle will sometimes not respond to commands. Although this is annoying this is still a great game and worth your 20 bucks on steam.… Expand
  9. Jarec
    Mar 6, 2012
    10
    Fantastic game, seriously. I have spent approximately 600 hours on and off playing this game since release and I still keep coming back to it. I only had a couple of issues with it, both of which were easily fixed by modding. The amount of turns in any given game is woefully low (only 200 turns, this is true for all Total War games and is really not enough). The other issue for me wasFantastic game, seriously. I have spent approximately 600 hours on and off playing this game since release and I still keep coming back to it. I only had a couple of issues with it, both of which were easily fixed by modding. The amount of turns in any given game is woefully low (only 200 turns, this is true for all Total War games and is really not enough). The other issue for me was the unit sizes, the battles felt more like skirmishes as opposed proper epic battles. I would still recommend it to any fans of the Total War series. It's probably my favorite after Medieval II.… Expand
  10. spitfire23
    Sep 1, 2013
    10
    It's an amazing game that paved the way for later Total War games like Napolean and Shogun. It's glitchy but that can be overlooked most of the time. It could be said that Empire Total War is as revolutionary for the franchise as Rome Total War was. It brought new gameplay elements to the campaign and is overall an epic and enjoyable game.
  11. KhanIndustries
    Sep 2, 2013
    10
    I understand how extreme it is to give a game a 0 or 10 but in this case, I honestly feel it deserves it. A game that provided me with over 1200 hours of gameplay (and still counting) for me, ranks right up there with such legendary games as Master of Orion 2, Sid's Civilization and XCom.

    When the game was first released there were plenty of bugs but the patches long ago have squashed    I understand how extreme it is to give a game a 0 or 10 but in this case, I honestly feel it deserves it. A game that provided me with over 1200 hours of gameplay (and still counting) for me, ranks right up there with such legendary games as Master of Orion 2, Sid's Civilization and XCom.

    When the game was first released there were plenty of bugs but the patches long ago have squashed them all for me. Never before has a game pushed the boundaries so much and seemed so grand in scale, I was in strategy heaven! Introducing interactive naval combat for the first time in the Total War series, 3 different theaters, a technology tree, a completely new era, and the list goes on. To me, Empire Total War is the time when Creative Assembly really dug down in their creative spirits, took risks by breaking away from the safety of their melee heavy games (which are great by the way) and delivered a unique experience that every strategy gamer should experience.

    If you like strategy games, this is a must have for your collection in my honest opinion. If you can appreciate the risk the developers took with the introduction of so many new mechanics and a scale unmatched by any Total War game before or since; I think some of you may find a game taking its place among a short list of all time favorites.    … Expand
  12. Apapin
    Sep 3, 2013
    9
    I love Empire total war. For me this is the best total war after Medieval 2. Having 3 continents and a bit of North Africa is awesome. And i love the 18th sentury a lot.
  13. chellboy
    Sep 22, 2013
    8
    I totally shocked at the user reviews! This is as good as rome total war (the 1st of course). Its a great game. the european and american map feel like two different games which is awesome. The units are very cool and many countries have their own unique units.

    Some of the problems that hold it back is that the AI still has problems that were in rome total war and have never been    I totally shocked at the user reviews! This is as good as rome total war (the 1st of course). Its a great game. the european and american map feel like two different games which is awesome. The units are very cool and many countries have their own unique units.

    Some of the problems that hold it back is that the AI still has problems that were in rome total war and have never been patched, such as the cavalry charge the enemy does on your units. They sometimes throw a quarter of their army doing this. The AI in siege battles are pretty bad too. It is also a bad idea to auto resolve battles (trust me). The game also doesnt have just simple open fields to fight in. There is always trees and hills which is fine but i would have liked a completely open map with nothing but flat land. beside these its the total war and its amazingly fun. Making armies with wacky strategies and tactics is priceless. I recommend going long range light units and musket cavalry only.    … Expand
  14. BatFat09
    Sep 17, 2013
    10
    This is simply the greatest total war of all time. It has the best map, in the best age, with the best darthmod. This game is absolutely excellent. Excuse me, I must stretch my empire around the globe.
  15. murndawg
    Nov 5, 2013
    8
    People give this game a lot of flak over AI, bugs and other things. i for one haven't encountered any bugs and although the AI is poor at times, it isnt as bad as people have said. Although many of these reviews were around release time, they should go back and see what improvements have been made. The factions are plentiful, wide ranging either in Europe, India or America. DiplomacyPeople give this game a lot of flak over AI, bugs and other things. i for one haven't encountered any bugs and although the AI is poor at times, it isnt as bad as people have said. Although many of these reviews were around release time, they should go back and see what improvements have been made. The factions are plentiful, wide ranging either in Europe, India or America. Diplomacy in the game has, for me, improved. Rather than training diplomats, you just have to click a button to interact with factions. Good game.… Expand
  16. MrAB
    Oct 31, 2013
    10
    A good game this is. The only problem with the game is the long load time. Otherwise, the factions, the gameplay, the music are all awesome. Creative Assembly deserves all the praise and acclaim they get.
  17. Atilla1456
    Aug 30, 2016
    9
    An amazing game, one of the best in the Total War series and my personal favorite. The game runs very smoothly and gives interesting gameplay, allowing players to use different playstyles with different nations. Each nation offers unique gameplay. Overall, I am impressed with this and give it 9/10 rating. The game could be a bit more historical, although I understand the game was not meantAn amazing game, one of the best in the Total War series and my personal favorite. The game runs very smoothly and gives interesting gameplay, allowing players to use different playstyles with different nations. Each nation offers unique gameplay. Overall, I am impressed with this and give it 9/10 rating. The game could be a bit more historical, although I understand the game was not meant to be played in all ways historically.… Expand
  18. RaminGray
    May 7, 2016
    10
    i am sorry about people's that have negatived review to this nice game . unfortunately some of player can't wait and think carefully . these games are not exited to them because not action .and so puzzle work to do . you have to command ,role ,economy terms ,also you have to change the history , this people's don't know how to play then comes and write about rts games . i have beeni am sorry about people's that have negatived review to this nice game . unfortunately some of player can't wait and think carefully . these games are not exited to them because not action .and so puzzle work to do . you have to command ,role ,economy terms ,also you have to change the history , this people's don't know how to play then comes and write about rts games . i have been playing rts games from 1995 until now and the Empire:total war is the best rts game on 2009 .… Expand
  19. Leonardf
    Feb 7, 2010
    10
    This game is most likely the best game that i have ever played, and i have played a lot of games through my life. This game is truly epic, a icon to the games of the 2100 century. the cut scene of this game is breath taking, the story is far beyond exiting and the game play is nothing less then addictive. The only flaw about this game is that it ends.
  20. LoneMedic
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    This is simply the best strategy game out there right now. If you want a long game full of depth and strategy, order this game now! I usually don't buy games until they go down, but this game is worth every penny. I'll be playing this for years like I have with all the other Total War games. A 10 doesn't do this game justice. It deserves a 14. It's epic. Simply epic.
  21. ScottMitchell
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Empire: Total War is the greatest addition to the Total War series. It is truly epic in size, the new ways to play the game, including naval battles and The Road to Independance, are absolutly amazing with little to no flaws. This game leaves nothing to be desired. My only wish is that the next one they make will be "Modern: Total War".
  22. Steinus
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    It's an amazing game, but the reason for why I don't give it a 10 is:

    Poor pathfinding, not only in sieges, but in all battles with high altidude differences. HMS Victory is painted in a colour she had in the 19th century, not the 18th. She was red originally. Well, I can't list all the mistakes... Worth buying nonetheless, but if you're a history freak    It's an amazing game, but the reason for why I don't give it a 10 is:

    Poor pathfinding, not only in sieges, but in all battles with high altidude differences.

    HMS Victory is painted in a colour she had in the 19th century, not the 18th. She was red originally.

    Well, I can't list all the mistakes... Worth buying nonetheless, but if you're a history freak you're gonna have some akward moments of "huh?"    … Expand
  23. bud389
    Jul 24, 2012
    10
    Fans don't give this game the due credit it deserves. Not only did it save CA from bankruptcy, but it also revitalized the Total War series by offering a new, original take on 18th Century warfare. It's Naval combat is unprecedented in and almost bar none compared to any and all other naval combat games taking place in the 18th century and it's new diplomacy and tech tree mechanics workFans don't give this game the due credit it deserves. Not only did it save CA from bankruptcy, but it also revitalized the Total War series by offering a new, original take on 18th Century warfare. It's Naval combat is unprecedented in and almost bar none compared to any and all other naval combat games taking place in the 18th century and it's new diplomacy and tech tree mechanics work nearly flawlessly in their functionality.

    The gameplay, oh the gameplay, theres a vast amount of tactics and strategies you can devise against opponents, some nations requiring a different approach because of their methods of warfare and tech. It offers more interactive and varied approach to the campaign, offering a wide amount of variation from not only nation to nation, but region to region as to what you use each one for, be it for military, economic, or even technological advances to your country, or perhaps enhancing its national prestige.    … Expand
  24. Luca
    Jun 30, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. empire total war is a great game, but like every game its not perfect and has some problems for example:in the previous total war edition you could be multiple nations but in empire total war you just can be 10 nations i think. but I still recommend it.… Expand
  25. grandusalenius
    Mar 19, 2012
    10
    This is a strategy game. You will have to defend and expand your empire to get a victory. But this is not easy, you will have to manage city tax policies, deal with revolts, use religion to convert population to the one of you're empire, deal with happiness of cities, train land and naval units, use research to develop technology (by constructing science buildings in cities) and otherThis is a strategy game. You will have to defend and expand your empire to get a victory. But this is not easy, you will have to manage city tax policies, deal with revolts, use religion to convert population to the one of you're empire, deal with happiness of cities, train land and naval units, use research to develop technology (by constructing science buildings in cities) and other complex things typical of strategy games. This series of Total War games is special because in here you can manually fight your battles. What i mean is that if you choose to fight an army with your army (or whatever) you have 2 choices: 1) Auto resolve: based on your unit strength stats against the enemy unit strength stats (and other factor like terrain) one will automatically emerge victorious. And 2) you will fight the war yourself. You will direct your units in real time in the battlefield.

    You have several Empires to select from. Just to name a few: Spain, England, Russia...etc. But you are not in a modern era setting. The game starts somewhere (i don't exactly remember) in the 1750's. So you have to make use of archers, catapults and swordsmen (althought in time you will be able to use cannons and some rifle units) to fight your way to victory. This game is almost as good as Rome: Total War.

    Enjoy!    … Expand
  26. TomPD
    May 6, 2012
    10
    When this game first came out, I could understand the negative reviews, this was an unfinished game with too many bugs. But here we are 3 years later and the game has reached its full potential. Go download DarthMod or one of the many other great mods for this game and you have a masterpiece that, if reviewed again today, would receive many more 10 out of 10s. I have played all of theWhen this game first came out, I could understand the negative reviews, this was an unfinished game with too many bugs. But here we are 3 years later and the game has reached its full potential. Go download DarthMod or one of the many other great mods for this game and you have a masterpiece that, if reviewed again today, would receive many more 10 out of 10s. I have played all of the TW games and ETW is my favorite by measure of hours played (over 500). If you like the blend of risk, civilization, and great battles, then this game is a must have.… Expand
  27. EricB.
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    I love this game, and luckily I had none of the problems that everyone else had with it, and I've clocked in around 300 hours on it. Great game.
  28. MichaelStuart
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    I would say this game will be the best game until 2015 The graphics are excellent the collision database is better New naval battles with Super detailed water and cannans actually make holes in the ships. The land battle are awesome, you can make your very own Barriers to avoid musket fire i would say to give this game atleast at metascore of 96!
  29. CorneliusSanchez
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    I am mostly writing this review in response to John R...Dont rate this game a 2 because you are upset with the way steam functions, you are supposed to rate the game (which coincidently is available from many venues other than steam). John has not played the game and is here to review steam, so I will vote 10 to offset his score of 2
  30. DonG.
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    I think this is a really good game. A little hard to put the graphics on very high and make the game the best it should be. What I wanted to see was some fighting in Asia. And what happened the Africa and South America? And another thing is that troops from Europe look kind of the same just with different names and colors. Out of that the graphics could be really good (I just can't) I think this is a really good game. A little hard to put the graphics on very high and make the game the best it should be. What I wanted to see was some fighting in Asia. And what happened the Africa and South America? And another thing is that troops from Europe look kind of the same just with different names and colors. Out of that the graphics could be really good (I just can't) and the game is cool.… Expand
  31. TiagoL
    Feb 28, 2010
    9
    The sound effects are just amazing, the land battles aren't boring, the use of gunpowder was very well addapted, the naval battles are the most chalenging issue in the game,and for me, as a portugues, I just loved to see the spanish conquering the portuguese and in the next turn they revolted and appear like a faccion again,very nice detail. Congratulations to the team.
  32. jamesdules50
    Aug 26, 2010
    10
    This game is awesome!! i am a video game enthusiast and i work at a video game store and i have to say this game is amazing! it's is by far one of the best games in the world and knocks other games of this category like sid meyers games out of the water. if you are a true fan of history and military strategy or just games in general you have to play this game! the user score it got isThis game is awesome!! i am a video game enthusiast and i work at a video game store and i have to say this game is amazing! it's is by far one of the best games in the world and knocks other games of this category like sid meyers games out of the water. if you are a true fan of history and military strategy or just games in general you have to play this game! the user score it got is definitely not what it deserves and it may have a couple of things wrong with it but it is easy to look over with a game this spectacular! I would recommend this game to anyone who wants to sit down and play a nice addicting game.… Expand
  33. SnowShred
    Nov 14, 2010
    10
    Great game. Good graphics, and very playable. All in all a very amazing game. It is a must have for any strategy enthusiast out there. The graphics are amazing and the battles are intense
  34. JaredP.
    Jan 30, 2010
    10
    This game offers so much to time of fun. You can command almost 15+ nations! AI are great; they can make it easy, or hard for veterans. (And I mean HARD!). This is the game that has the best graphics I've ever seen in my history of gaming.
  35. AttilaCsatari
    Mar 6, 2009
    8
    9 for the game -5 for "Steam". As we used with the earlier versions of TW but with enchancments like sea battles and building you can inhabite on battlefield. Terrible the way activating with "steam" and the need if you want to play! Come on! I am certain that a pirated version is better and I am started to wonder why I've bought mine from store with all these "hocus-pocus"...
  36. CPTblackadder
    Oct 27, 2010
    10
    this review is written after all the patches and with all the dlc, apart from east units thing, i like it i play as the dutch. the blue guard is THE BEST UNIT. however i find the game crashes often(may be my pc). graphics: speechless. sound: awesome. i would like a mix of napoleon total war and empire. if they made that then total war would rule over everything.
  37. Orlandu84
    Sep 20, 2010
    9
    Empire Total War is my third Total War game, and it lived up to my expectations. Does the AI have problems? Yes. Is the AI mindless? No. Perhaps I am an idiot and really do not know how to play, but I found the AI challenging and competent. Now, I am speaking from the perspective of a patched game, but the circumstances surrounding the release of the game explain much (having yourEmpire Total War is my third Total War game, and it lived up to my expectations. Does the AI have problems? Yes. Is the AI mindless? No. Perhaps I am an idiot and really do not know how to play, but I found the AI challenging and competent. Now, I am speaking from the perspective of a patched game, but the circumstances surrounding the release of the game explain much (having your main AI programmer have to leave for family problems is going to harm any game at release). Enough of an apologia. This game has a lot going for it. Stunning graphics. A much better balanced economy. Actual naval combat! A tech tree!

    Lastly, know that the Total War mod community has delivered some great mods for this game. If you do not like the game vanilla, then find the mod that works for you.    … Expand
  38. jAVA
    Sep 5, 2010
    10
    I play this game and I think its great. I have all these games and they are great. I am waiting for Shogun2 to come out soon! I have the first one and that is cool but the new Shogun 2 will rock your socks off.
  39. JohnD
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    Amazing game, and the critic reviews speak for themselves. In response to John R., are you inept? For you to rate a game, which is for all intensive purposes a masterpiece, a 2 simply because you dislike steam or it is causing you trouble is nothing short of pure idiocy.
  40. TristanDowbiggin
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Hey John R., why do you give a bad rating to a game because you bought it from a crappy system like steam. The game itself is great and very well done, i hope no one listens to someone who blames the game being bad on steam, because steam didnt make it.
  41. Iain
    Jan 13, 2010
    9
    Great game, campaign is mode is good and so is the online play. some problems with battlefield AI and diplomacy, also the writing is hard to read. Not as good as Rome but better than medieval 2
  42. LiamH
    Jan 3, 2010
    10
    Excellent game although the online has been ruined by people doing anything to win for example massed skirmisher armies. This was a big let down for me but other than that it is great.
  43. CharlesT
    May 23, 2009
    9
    The graphics work fine and the game is amazing, the only gripe I have with it is that once your empire grows to the point where you own 2/3rds of the world it starts crashing if you try to take over the rest, which if we're honest is a very fun part of the game.
  44. Jackalen
    Jan 12, 2010
    9
    Totally love the era Empire total war is exploring. With patience, the new patches and perhaps some mods made Empire total war an excellent, beautiful and addicting game. I would recomend it to anyone that own a good computer =)
  45. edoardoed
    Jan 12, 2010
    9
    the grafic is wonderful and it s a very good strategy game. On my pc it never falls and i fink that if you have a powerful PC this is one of the best games that you can install. It s a MUST HAVE for every rts player!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  46. GregN
    Dec 23, 2009
    9
    I cant possibly believe the low scores given by people who claim to have "gaming" or "high-end" CPUs. I have a 5 year old CPU that runs the game a little slow with some chop but naval battles are clean. This game rocks!!!!
  47. [anonymous]
    Dec 17, 2009
    9
    probably the best total war game thus far. I love the naval battles and tech tree!
  48. DaveB
    Dec 22, 2009
    10
    As usual,CA turns out yet another masterful product. As for the people complaining about poor performance, I suggest they try playing on something more advanced than a Commodore 64. It's not the developer's fault if your welfare computer sucks balls.
  49. AaronY
    Dec 31, 2009
    9
    Everyone who says this game has glitches or crashes is 1. The don't know how to run the game, or 2. They are playing the game on an ancient computer. I've been playing this game for the past few weeks and all I got was a crash and that was because my computer had to install an update. I have always wanted a strategy game that involves all aspects of a real war and this game is Everyone who says this game has glitches or crashes is 1. The don't know how to run the game, or 2. They are playing the game on an ancient computer. I've been playing this game for the past few weeks and all I got was a crash and that was because my computer had to install an update. I have always wanted a strategy game that involves all aspects of a real war and this game is as close as you can get to that. I applaud the developer for thinking of every possible angle. Although this will be a bit difficult for new players to the strategy genre to grasp, this is an excellent game. The only drawback is that the AI in single player and to aggressive and trying to make deals and agreements with them are impossible.… Expand
  50. Uncle2fire
    Dec 24, 2010
    10
    This is by far the most amazing game ever created, much better than the previous Medieval 2 and Rome, and in my opinion, better than Napoleon.
    The scope of this game is fantastic, it includes 3 land theatres: Americas (from the Hudson Bay to Guyana), Europe (Iceland to Mesopotamia, Sweden to North Africa) and India (Mesopotamia to Calcutta); and four trade theatres: East Indies, Strait of    This is by far the most amazing game ever created, much better than the previous Medieval 2 and Rome, and in my opinion, better than Napoleon.
    The scope of this game is fantastic, it includes 3 land theatres: Americas (from the Hudson Bay to Guyana), Europe (Iceland to Mesopotamia, Sweden to North Africa) and India (Mesopotamia to Calcutta); and four trade theatres: East Indies, Strait of Madagascar, Ivory Coast, and coast of Brazil. Together, all these spaces combine to give the player a game that truly spreads across the world.
    In this game, there are 12 major factions, 11 of which are playable. They include Great Britain, France, Spain, Austria, Prussia, Poland-Lithuania, Russia, United Provinces, Ottoman Empire, Sweden and the Maratha Confederacy. The United States is also playable in a separate campaign. These factions all have different starting positions, victory conditions, economic and military strengths and diplomatic relations. Even with these factions and the more than 50 others, the game still runs smoothly and naturally through history.
    The graphics are great, especially with the new sea battles, they really help bring the action to life.
    Most of the other reviews complain about Steam. STEAM IS NOT THE GAME! Steam can be a little annoying at times, especially the fact that you cannot play the game without Steam, however, once the game is installed and updated, Steam will hardly ever bother you again.
    To those who gave the game bad reviews because of crashes, it's not the game's fault that you have a faulty computer, if your computer were up to the task, the game would run fine.
    This is my favorite game, and I have played many games. It will be hard to top it, so Creative Assembly should keep up the good work!    … Expand
  51. Se7en
    Mar 15, 2011
    10
    This game was another perfect, eye-popping experience from the genius minds of Creative Assembly. Featuring all the features of past Total War games (minus family trees) and more (research trees), outstanding graphics, and wonderful, strategic large-scale combat. My only complaint is that you can't play as America in the multiplayer coop campaign beta. Otherwise, a must have for any TotalThis game was another perfect, eye-popping experience from the genius minds of Creative Assembly. Featuring all the features of past Total War games (minus family trees) and more (research trees), outstanding graphics, and wonderful, strategic large-scale combat. My only complaint is that you can't play as America in the multiplayer coop campaign beta. Otherwise, a must have for any Total War and history enthusiast.

    Keep in mind that this game has next to no similarities to games such as Command and Conquer and Starcraft 2. If you like fast-paced zerg spam and a quick 30 minute game fix, this game is NOT for you.    … Expand
  52. Gadget
    Mar 21, 2011
    9
    I have spent just over 360 hours playing this game and I have really come to love it. I have played using Prussia and after more than 400 turns I have almost taken every province in the game. Initially when the game was first released I was plagued by crashes and memory problems. Also Steam got in the way as well. If it wasn't for all of the crashing initially, i would have given the gameI have spent just over 360 hours playing this game and I have really come to love it. I have played using Prussia and after more than 400 turns I have almost taken every province in the game. Initially when the game was first released I was plagued by crashes and memory problems. Also Steam got in the way as well. If it wasn't for all of the crashing initially, i would have given the game a 10.
    The Pros: gorgeous battle scenes, good controls, good variation in battle locations (particularly the ocean battles).
    The Cons: if you are obsessed with controlling everything (if you can't trust an AI!), then the larger your empire gets, the lengthier each turn can get with managing all of your units. Also, I have a problem where the campaign map won't scroll, so I need to click on the mini-map. Auto-resolve of battles always yields a crappy result as compared with what you can do yourself, so you end up fighting a lot of battles that really you could skip over.

    Overall, although my list of cons is lengthy, the the joy of beating off multiple nations at the same time, and the gorgeous battles makes this game a winner.    … Expand
  53. Kdall
    Jun 30, 2011
    10
    A monumental strategy game with only a few flaws. The single player campaign is fun and really helps you get a grasp on the game especially if you are unfamiliar with the Total War series. The campaign mode is extremely fun and ripe with re playability, with the short/long campaigns and the multiple nations you can play as. The combat is very fun and requires a great strategic mind,A monumental strategy game with only a few flaws. The single player campaign is fun and really helps you get a grasp on the game especially if you are unfamiliar with the Total War series. The campaign mode is extremely fun and ripe with re playability, with the short/long campaigns and the multiple nations you can play as. The combat is very fun and requires a great strategic mind, even in the single player modes, and with the changing battle terrain depending on your location of the map, you can get some very unique battlefield situations in or against your favor. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a deep strategy game experience.… Expand
  54. socokid
    Aug 14, 2010
    10
    An absolutely incredible game.

    I still find it strange how a few off the wall Critic Reviews, and a slew of asinine 0 scores from users for computer/Steam issues, can keep the true greatness of this game from being fully revealed to casual searchers. A user score of 6.7 is shameful for this masterpiece.
  55. doicescuradu
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    Every history addict and strategy game players should try not only this game but all the games from the Total War series.
    This time CA has outdone themselves, making a game that will last in the annals of computer gaming....a true masterpiece in every possible aspect from graphics to gameplay and story ambience
  56. MichaelJohnson
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    Excellent game. Significant AI improvements, magical graphics, deep and complex but still manageable given it's scope.

    Is let down by a great deal of bugs and occasionally frustrating naval battles (ships don't always go where you tell them, painful to manage reloading and firing of broadsides in large scale battles)

    Overall, a must buy.
  57. AndrewS
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    This is the best game, dont listen to people who are mad at steam, steam IS NOT EMPIRE: TOTAL WAR, IT IS STEAM!! I suggest buying it at a store, not on steam to avoid those issues. It is very fun, if you liked any total war game, you will love this one, and if you havent played one, you will be even more in love with it.
  58. PeterKang
    Mar 10, 2009
    10
    For all YOU STEAM HATERS. THIS IS TO RATE THE GAME NOT THE STEAM. THEY RELEASED A "PATCH" where you don't have to work with steam. ALSO, IF YOU DOWNLOADED FROM STEAM... DON"T COMPLAIN CUZ U WERE SIMPLY TOO LAZY TO GO TO THE STORE TO PICK IT UP instead YOU DECIDED TO DOWNLOAD. STFU AND SIT DOWN. So to all YOU HATERS FOR STEAM DON"T GIVE THIS GAME A BAD RATING JUST CUZ U HATE STEAM.For all YOU STEAM HATERS. THIS IS TO RATE THE GAME NOT THE STEAM. THEY RELEASED A "PATCH" where you don't have to work with steam. ALSO, IF YOU DOWNLOADED FROM STEAM... DON"T COMPLAIN CUZ U WERE SIMPLY TOO LAZY TO GO TO THE STORE TO PICK IT UP instead YOU DECIDED TO DOWNLOAD. STFU AND SIT DOWN. So to all YOU HATERS FOR STEAM DON"T GIVE THIS GAME A BAD RATING JUST CUZ U HATE STEAM. Anyways I believe this game was just amazing except the fact that they delayed this whole time to get the multiplayer campaign included and they still haven't included in yet. That's like the only disappointment but other than its fantastic. I showed it to my friends and they are all addicts of the game now.… Expand
  59. robertalderman
    Mar 6, 2009
    10
    All ten stars for me, this game is truly remarkable through out the whole thing game play is great , replay is great, and overall game smoothness is great, i have no problem running this game on ultra and it being very smooth. -AMD dragon spec pc.

    very well done creative, im usually a tough customer but you have really done great work and it is available steam!! yay
  60. ClintonLandry
    Mar 7, 2009
    9
    The game is fantastic in its campaign depth. The diplomacy, naval battles and fort system are much improved over previous total war games. The only draw back is the load time for battles and the lack of character depth regarding generals and leaders. There are some attributes but not the depth i would like.
  61. DanielC
    Mar 7, 2009
    9
    'Tis a very polished game next to M2:TW. AI seems at least slightly more responsive. Runs buttery smooth on my computer (may not be the case for everyone). I had no problems with steam, except the long, LONG download. It is still possible others will. Bottom line, another great game by CA.
  62. NelsonX
    Jan 24, 2010
    10
    This is the best game I have ever seen. I didnot mind some bugs, that is normal in every software. I play it every day when I can.
  63. JamesM
    Dec 25, 2009
    9
    This is an awesome game the fact that it is able to keep 1000+ troops on the battlefield and not lag it outstanding! And i don't know what you guys are talking about because it doesn't lagg a single bit on my 9800GT =)
  64. IanWilliams
    Mar 7, 2009
    10
    The people whining about Steam are just frustrated free-loaders, so let's just ignore them. In terms of atmosphere and gameplay, ETWis as good as it gets. This isn't just the best strategy game ever, it's quite probably the best video game ever. And to think we're here to witness it in person! Unbelievable.
  65. DonS
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    keep up the great work, you can almost smell the gunpowder
  66. YermakirumY.
    Dec 19, 2009
    10
    Very good game.
  67. AdrianChorley
    Mar 16, 2009
    10
    truly awesome game. can't see what peoples issues are. steam has worked a treat for me, and while the naval battles are more basic than the land battles, they're still a great addition that i'm sure will get better over time with the next few total war games. much more instantly addictive than medieval 2, and that was a 10/10 too!!!
  68. TestAce
    Dec 4, 2010
    10
    Since there hasn't been a review since 2009, I thought I should write one. Steam recently released a bunch of updates that fixed the problems that other buyers/users/players were complaining about.

    On to the new stuff. The game play and storyline are amazing. I'm into the second part of the game and I've already played 50 hours (maybe more or less while enjoying the game and battles and    Since there hasn't been a review since 2009, I thought I should write one. Steam recently released a bunch of updates that fixed the problems that other buyers/users/players were complaining about.

    On to the new stuff. The game play and storyline are amazing. I'm into the second part of the game and I've already played 50 hours (maybe more or less while enjoying the game and battles and not rushing). The graphics are amazing and very realistic, you can see the soldiers reloading the runs/cannons, etc. The naval battles are interesting but I wish it would be more user friendly since its easier and better to have the ships just auto attack and doing some minor controlling, unlike the land battles where you need to control everything.

    Realism is a problem in the game...well to me but thats because I find it annoying. Explanation: If you have cannons overlapping and they fire they will hit, and destroy, the cannon in front of them. Same with ships..if they are set on auto attack and are side to side they will fire their cannons and hit each other. So not really a problem but just annoying that its so realistic.    … Expand
  69. jetSetWilly
    Jul 23, 2012
    10
    Pretty much the best RTS available to date. Easy to pick up, fun to experiment with. Great battles both land and see. Great to play skirmish with a friend. Heaps of different ways to play the game. A great way to learn the general geography and the way things were back in the 1700's. All in all a masterpiece when compared to the lame sci-fi style rts crap being pumped out these days. AndPretty much the best RTS available to date. Easy to pick up, fun to experiment with. Great battles both land and see. Great to play skirmish with a friend. Heaps of different ways to play the game. A great way to learn the general geography and the way things were back in the 1700's. All in all a masterpiece when compared to the lame sci-fi style rts crap being pumped out these days. And the graphics, especially for the boats are just inspirational. Its a beautiful enjoyable game! Fact.… Expand
  70. AlexanderW
    Apr 5, 2009
    10
    Absolutely stunning. This game is incredibly detailed, both historically and visually, and epically enjoyable. No crashes for me so far, so one does wonder how much of this is undeserved critique is down to the failings of clueless players.
    Steam is about the only thing that I wasn't keen with this, but thanks to shameless pirates we're going to have to accept it's the only    Absolutely stunning. This game is incredibly detailed, both historically and visually, and epically enjoyable. No crashes for me so far, so one does wonder how much of this is undeserved critique is down to the failings of clueless players.
    Steam is about the only thing that I wasn't keen with this, but thanks to shameless pirates we're going to have to accept it's the only way the PC game industry is going to survive. So man up and install Steam, it doesn't hurt that much.    … Expand
  71. JoãoSalvadoretti
    Mar 30, 2009
    9
    Despite somewhat rushed nature, Empires stand as a great game, offering a great gameplay, begin sea land battles really good. Its only issues rest is the already mentioned rushed state, but even this is begin fixed with a long patch process (off course, it would be better if it did not happen, but still...).
  72. MarkVerveld
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    The whole total war series is an awesome product, but Empire's scope and depth are so much bigger. This is absolutely stunning. The combination of overall startegy with the very detailed and realistic battles gives the the player a sense of immersion that I have not found anywhere else in the genre.
  73. JamesonClark
    Apr 2, 2009
    9
    great game great addition to my total war lineup i will be playing this for a long time to come. I have not had any of the problems that everyone else seems to be complaining about though... it did once crash when i first got it but thats the only issue so far. My opinion is this game is great.
  74. BarrieHarris
    Mar 24, 2009
    9
    Fantastic .. some of the campaign features were a little annoying .. but overall it was excellent .. on line play is outstanding .. I would have gone for Empire total war (land) and Empire total war at sea (another game guys .. more money) keep up the good work.
    Bazza
  75. DanA
    Mar 13, 2009
    10
    Empire is by far the best strategy game that i have ever played. Grpahics are breathtaking, runs on my xps 400 like silk(8800gts, 3 gigs of ram and intel core duo 3.2).
    @ RYAN S
    GET A BETTER COMPUTER.. its a mystery to me why people like you even exist, if you cant get a good computer dont buy the game!!!!! otherwise stop your whining becasue no one wants to hear it
  76. BenBoeve
    Mar 14, 2009
    10
    Although the Steam aspect of the game is somewhat disappointing, the game itself is very good with a campaign map across three theaters. The battles play very much the same of Medieval Total War 2 which is fine because the battles were great. Naval battles are also very enjoyable with a good amount of attention paid to detail.
  77. stephen
    Mar 17, 2009
    10
    this game is now one of my favourites, the graphics are good, gameplay with the formations and all , just like a real battle in the 17th hundreds, i am a real fan for RTS games and this is my first total war game, and i hav to say , not much can beat this this.
  78. JohnS
    Mar 24, 2009
    10
    I'm a Total War fan from way back, and I really enjoyed this iteration of the series. The campaign map is much improved, with the decentralized provinces making for a high level of strategy and thought needed for every move and troop placement. Although many users complain about bugs and crashes, I have experienced none of this in over 50 hours of gameplay so far. This is ironic,I'm a Total War fan from way back, and I really enjoyed this iteration of the series. The campaign map is much improved, with the decentralized provinces making for a high level of strategy and thought needed for every move and troop placement. Although many users complain about bugs and crashes, I have experienced none of this in over 50 hours of gameplay so far. This is ironic, considering most games crash and lock up all the time on my machine.… Expand
  79. TemplarGR
    Sep 9, 2016
    10
    The best Total war, the pinnacle of the series. One of the rare occasions where official reviewers scored it right.

    Don't get me wrong, the launch was attrocious, i remember it clearly, i had pre-ordered it. And CA should pay for this blatant disregard for the customer. But as a game, this was a masterpiece. And today, after the patches it received, it is perfectly playable and fun.    The best Total war, the pinnacle of the series. One of the rare occasions where official reviewers scored it right.

    Don't get me wrong, the launch was attrocious, i remember it clearly, i had pre-ordered it. And CA should pay for this blatant disregard for the customer. But as a game, this was a masterpiece. And today, after the patches it received, it is perfectly playable and fun.

    Many people don't seem to appreciate this game, because they were used to the more arcade-y battles of previous installments. You know, just click on units and charge!. Well, Empire Total War does a really good job with its battle system, portraing the battles of its era. You need proper tactics, and positioning is key. Morale is everything.

    The battles are more chess-like, like in real life Napoleonic-era battles. You need to take care of not breaking your battlelines, while breaking the opponents, causing morale shocks, and eventually routing him. This takes knowledge of how the units work, and how to position your units properly.

    I write these things because many people think this game had bad battles, because they tried to play those battles like Medieval II and Rome. I did at first too, i know.

    In the end, this is the best gunpowder era game we have. If you love maskets and cannons, and want a really great empire management game with cool tactical battles, this game is for you.

    This was much better than Rome and Medieval II, Napoleon and Shogun II began the downward spiral of casualisation. This spiral began because people complained about Empire. Careful what you wish for people, you didn't like the realism of Empire, Rome II is what you eventually got.    … Expand
  80. Interloper
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    The Total War series have always impressed me, mainly due to their vast size, complexity and attention to detail. Empire Total War raises the bar even higher with its absolutely HUGE map size, its meaningful strategy and addictive gameplay. Truly one of the most immersive and engrossing strategy games ever made.
  81. namDa65
    Jan 6, 2012
    9
    I am very surprised at the user score for this game. This is a step up in graphics, and the game involves a different kind of strategy this time around. My pc died and choked to death on the campaign map at 1080p max settings. Endless replayability, great animations, top notch gameplay. Haters get out!
  82. Cidmusky
    Dec 30, 2012
    10
    The Total war series has had me hooked since medieval:total war. The games are just so epic, especially some of the battles provided your pc is fast enough. I can literally spend all day playing this game its so awesome. An example of how games should be made - it requires a brain!
  83. AlexWizz
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    Empire is not the best in the series; neither the worst. It fails in some points, but is really fortunate in other, like the sea battles. The historical period is very interesting, with so many different stuff happening at the same time. You should buy this one, the battles are very fun to play and the generals are very charismatic. The campaign is formidable, to conquer the entire world,Empire is not the best in the series; neither the worst. It fails in some points, but is really fortunate in other, like the sea battles. The historical period is very interesting, with so many different stuff happening at the same time. You should buy this one, the battles are very fun to play and the generals are very charismatic. The campaign is formidable, to conquer the entire world, even in videogames, is always very nice!… Expand
  84. BrianJ
    Oct 8, 2009
    9
    In my opinion this is the best RTS at the moment. - Great game play( As usual for the series) - Great graphics - Lots of new stuff compared to the previous games. There are still bugs, and at release I would have given it 6 or 7, but seeing that they have removed many of the bugs it deserves a 9!
  85. CarloD
    Mar 8, 2009
    9
    I think this is is the best game I have ever played, honestly, it takes you back to my favourite time in history, 1700-1850 and immerses you in a true new world. You need some cunning and wits to outsmart your enemies, because the new AI is getting quite realistic now. There are minor bugs, but they will surely be patched by Creative Assembly, just like with the rest of their games.
  86. stevenl
    May 16, 2009
    9
    Steam is crap. I am in Iraq and internet comes in at about 3kbs so having to do anything online is a pain. The game is good though and that is what this rating is for. For people dropping the low scores cause of steam, steam is not the game.
  87. Dan
    Aug 10, 2009
    9
    Excellent game, a few bugs. Gameplay is amazing, whether managing your cities during the campaign or taking charge of your men during battle. There are a few bugs that need to be fixed soon. There are times when the pathing gets screwed up and your men will end up facing the wrong direction. Sometimes the artillery won't unlimber/limber making it impossible to move it. Besides those Excellent game, a few bugs. Gameplay is amazing, whether managing your cities during the campaign or taking charge of your men during battle. There are a few bugs that need to be fixed soon. There are times when the pathing gets screwed up and your men will end up facing the wrong direction. Sometimes the artillery won't unlimber/limber making it impossible to move it. Besides those 2 gameplay issues there is some trouble with online play on rare occasions. Overall, this game is well worth the purchase, I have played this more than most games that I purchase. On another note, I don't know why people are giving this game a bad review when they are upset about downloading it through steam- that is your choice. It will take time to download and install as it is a very large file.… Expand
  88. Eamon
    Oct 1, 2009
    10
    As of patch 1.4 this game is completely different to how it was at launch. Almost no bugs, better AI across campaign and battle and new units all add up to an ambitious and awesome piece of interactive entertainment. looking forward to campaign multiplayer.
  89. RenéH.
    Oct 2, 2009
    10
    The game was already excellently designed on release but had too many serious technical and gameplay bugs. All serious issues have been fixed by now (current patch: 1.4). The game has improved vastly in the last months.
  90. AshParadox
    Oct 4, 2009
    8
    Bug fixes should've been done at the start. FINALLY the game is half-decent, but still not quite right in many areas. Rush-released and incomplete/broken. Had I reviewed on release, it'd have gotten a 5 at best.
  91. CJK
    Oct 9, 2009
    10
    Easily the best game that I have downloaded. I have no idea why people would give this game bad reviews, people claim it doesnt run well. Mine has never crashed and I dont have a souped up computer. In fact I've logged over 70 hours already and never once had more than the slight lag when I owned most of the territories on the planet. This is absolute best strategy game for any Easily the best game that I have downloaded. I have no idea why people would give this game bad reviews, people claim it doesnt run well. Mine has never crashed and I dont have a souped up computer. In fact I've logged over 70 hours already and never once had more than the slight lag when I owned most of the territories on the planet. This is absolute best strategy game for any console. Period. If you say otherwise then you probably think Halo is a strategy game. It doesnt matter if you like underhanded tactics or holy crusading, this game has a way for whatever motivation you care to have. If you see red on the reviews, its either becuase of stone-age computers attempting to run it. Or because of a lack of forward planning and strategy (without that, the AI will anhillate you).… Expand
  92. DirkB
    Oct 9, 2009
    10
    I consider medieval 2 total war to be the best experience I had in any total war game. However this game is a less popular genre then the mid ages but is still very good, the maps are gigantic and very detailed and there is so much added to the game. I think the main reason why users rate it this low is because the battles are harder to win than in medieval 2. its a very good game .
  93. MaxH
    Oct 9, 2009
    10
    I have been playing this game for 6 months now and I'm not a bit tired of it. There are so many possibilities and ways to play this game that you never make the same game twice. And the developers are just amazing, they have a forum were you can post suggestions and complaints, and these guy accually read them and try to improve the game as much as possible. The reason I think that I have been playing this game for 6 months now and I'm not a bit tired of it. There are so many possibilities and ways to play this game that you never make the same game twice. And the developers are just amazing, they have a forum were you can post suggestions and complaints, and these guy accually read them and try to improve the game as much as possible. The reason I think that this game haven't got higher votes from users is that their expectations on this game has been way to high. I don't know if that's because of bad marceting, but I think that everyone needs to realise that a game of this magnitude can't be made without a single bug.… Expand
  94. Joel
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Ever Wondered what it would be like to eat the worlds best ice cream and orgasm at the same time well the answer is simple EMPIRE TOTAL WAR. I am going to keep this short but just make your troops charge a enemy position watch as the tumble over from incoming fire and numerous cannon balls hitting so close it makes the ground vibrate (it really does) and say that it inst awesome. Bottom Ever Wondered what it would be like to eat the worlds best ice cream and orgasm at the same time well the answer is simple EMPIRE TOTAL WAR. I am going to keep this short but just make your troops charge a enemy position watch as the tumble over from incoming fire and numerous cannon balls hitting so close it makes the ground vibrate (it really does) and say that it inst awesome. Bottom Line buy it buy it now and no steam isnt all bad only for those that cant use it.… Expand
  95. DanielC
    Mar 5, 2009
    8
    This is a great game, but it currently has a few drawbacks. I have played Total War games since Shogun and this I think is by far the best. The Campaign is much more dynamic and interesting and battles have more of the tactical element. Furthermore, AI is vastly improved! On the down side, it currently crashes a lot, save every turn till this is taken care of. Also I have at lest the This is a great game, but it currently has a few drawbacks. I have played Total War games since Shogun and this I think is by far the best. The Campaign is much more dynamic and interesting and battles have more of the tactical element. Furthermore, AI is vastly improved! On the down side, it currently crashes a lot, save every turn till this is taken care of. Also I have at lest the recommended specs and the battles, even small ones, lag horribly when you get near any troops. I have to run it on medium-low settings and it still lags. Also Load times are drawn-out. But I think all of the problems can able addressed in a patch or three, and despite these problems it is still a good game.… Expand
  96. TimR
    Mar 6, 2009
    10
    This isn't a comment on the game, but the statement above about the user who gave the game 2 stars. First off, no game should be penalized because of Steam or any other distribution service. None of the comments in this "review" above have anything to do with the game. Editors, please make sure that the review comments actually have relevance to the game. In the case of the comment This isn't a comment on the game, but the statement above about the user who gave the game 2 stars. First off, no game should be penalized because of Steam or any other distribution service. None of the comments in this "review" above have anything to do with the game. Editors, please make sure that the review comments actually have relevance to the game. In the case of the comment above, the user is reviewing Steam, not Empire:Total war, which is available all over the place, not just on Steam.… Expand
  97. NathanM
    Mar 6, 2009
    9
    The AI still makes occasionally strange decisions on the battlefield, but is more flexible. Strategically, it demonstrates competency at normal difficulties, have yet to determine its abilities on hard. Graphically, it looks wonderful, and the gameplay is deep (perhaps a little too deep on first glance) if you can overcome the initial shock of seeing so much going down on the campaign The AI still makes occasionally strange decisions on the battlefield, but is more flexible. Strategically, it demonstrates competency at normal difficulties, have yet to determine its abilities on hard. Graphically, it looks wonderful, and the gameplay is deep (perhaps a little too deep on first glance) if you can overcome the initial shock of seeing so much going down on the campaign map. An excellent game, relatively bug-free so far for me. The one thing people seem to hate the most is the inclusion of STEAM, but to be honest I've never had a problem with the program, and I've been using it since 2005. It has yet to crash on me once. Ignore the ranting and raving about how obnoxious STEAM is, and get this game.… Expand
  98. CallumM
    Mar 9, 2009
    10
    Brilliant! The step up in the campaign map was a welcome change. The user seems to have more control over their settlements now and the diplomacy feels more in depth. I havn't noticed any assassin or sabotage videos yet (which is a bit of a shame) but apart from that I haven't really got a bad word to say the game. Worth every penny.
  99. LiamD
    Apr 7, 2009
    8
    Great gameplay on both land and sea. but the game needs some extreame updates. theres so many bugs that i cant believe that they released the game without noticing all of this. campaign map lag, random dead spots were the sound will go dead on land or sea battles. random crashes. and so much more that i cant remember! i would recommend that anyone looking to get this game to wait a few Great gameplay on both land and sea. but the game needs some extreame updates. theres so many bugs that i cant believe that they released the game without noticing all of this. campaign map lag, random dead spots were the sound will go dead on land or sea battles. random crashes. and so much more that i cant remember! i would recommend that anyone looking to get this game to wait a few months for a tonne of updates to come out so there not disapointed to find a bug fest of a game.… Expand
  100. Tom
    Jun 10, 2009
    9
    This is another brilliant release in the TW series the only fault is the slowness of the loading and that is considerabaly small down fall when taking the rest of the games features into account
    This game keeps getting more efficient everytime it is updated by steam.
    And if your particular probelm hasnt been solved in a few months then you might have a reason to complain
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Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best PC Game of 2009
3
#3 Most Discussed PC Game of 2009
6
#6 Most Shared PC Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 62 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 61 out of 62
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 62
  3. Negative: 0 out of 62
  1. PC Gamer UK
    94
    Astonishing...Immense... A strategy masterwork. [Mar 2009, p.54]
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  2. Eurogamer
    90
    In some ways, it's the closest we've come to the enormous social novel from the period after that which Empire chronicles: it's a Tolstoy-esque War and Peace of a game. Its problems may be the inevitable problems of trying something with such sheer scope. As such, if you want the breathtaking vision of the game, you have to accept the flaws in the details - for now, at least.
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  3. InsideGamer.nl
    93
    This is the best Total War game thanks to all the little tweaks. Sometimes little differences make a good game great. The battles ask of you that you think more about your actions and managing your empire never was easier. The sea battles are fun to watch, but are a little hard to control. Nevertheless, Empire: Total War is a game that can make you forget about the time.
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