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. RobT
    Jun 27, 2009
    10
    Empire total war is a game with all the good signs and attributes expected of a strategy game. It has variety and can be played by anyone of any skill level. It has a smooth learning curve and an atmosphere that promotes strategy and smart thinking and rewards it accordingly.It is a game that is addicting, fun and easy to learn but hard to master.
  2. Highelf
    Aug 30, 2009
    8
    The game itself is great. For the first time the Dutch play their part, and the ships aswell. A few negative points of the game are the following: first of all, Steam. The idea of Steam is great, but it should not be a prior for a game to play... Next, I miss the movies when rakes do their jobs. Luckily, the gentlemen do have the movies when they are duelling. Unfortunately, they are not The game itself is great. For the first time the Dutch play their part, and the ships aswell. A few negative points of the game are the following: first of all, Steam. The idea of Steam is great, but it should not be a prior for a game to play... Next, I miss the movies when rakes do their jobs. Luckily, the gentlemen do have the movies when they are duelling. Unfortunately, they are not able to duel with their eastern counterparts, the scholars...After all, an 8.… Expand
  3. PedroM
    Aug 6, 2009
    10
    JUst simple the best game ive played untill now .Im a number one fan of TW series.Bugs,errors etc we always find in other games to .But the qualitie of the details,uniforms,fields,campaign,naval battles,multiplayer etc just dont have any kind of comparation with any other game ive seen untill today.And im 30 years old i know what im talking about.
  4. Juan
    Sep 11, 2009
    8
    Llevo solamente una semana jugando al Empire. En general es un buen juego, buenos gráficos, pero exije un ordenador muy potente. Parece que la IA ha mejorado un poco, el programa construye buenas unidades y es un poco mas difícil derrotarle en batalla. Tienen que seguir mejorando en diplomacia, sigue siendo muy difícil hacer la paz con naciones muy inferiores que noLlevo solamente una semana jugando al Empire. En general es un buen juego, buenos gráficos, pero exije un ordenador muy potente. Parece que la IA ha mejorado un poco, el programa construye buenas unidades y es un poco mas difícil derrotarle en batalla. Tienen que seguir mejorando en diplomacia, sigue siendo muy difícil hacer la paz con naciones muy inferiores que no tienen prácticamente posibilidades de ganar la guerra.
    El juego me ha dado algún fallo, el juego se cierra (cuando le toca el turno a la confederación iroquesa jugando yo de español tras conquistar Savannah, hacia el turno 15). Hasta ahora no me ha dado mas fallos tras cambiar mi línea estratégica (olvidarme de Savannah).
    Disculpas por no escribir en inglés, me expreso mucho mejor en español.    … Expand
  5. CedricPereyra
    Sep 30, 2009
    10
    I don't get why you guys have a hard time playing the game... It just takes time and patience to get the controls and all that. The missions and campaigns are really well made and is very rich in storyline. Everything in the land battles looks so awsome!! it looks so realistic!! especially the smokes that come out of the rifles of the infantry and artillery looks incredibly real!!!I don't get why you guys have a hard time playing the game... It just takes time and patience to get the controls and all that. The missions and campaigns are really well made and is very rich in storyline. Everything in the land battles looks so awsome!! it looks so realistic!! especially the smokes that come out of the rifles of the infantry and artillery looks incredibly real!!! and also during sea battles... when you board an enemy ship, It looks awsome! all in all, I would give it a solid 10!!!... wohoo!!… Expand
  6. AndyA
    Sep 6, 2009
    10
    Brilliant game-it has some glitches, the patch helps, (and I am sure more patches to come), but given the flaws it still gets a 10 for pure brilliance! If all games reached this level I would have little social life! An expansion into the 18th century and the Napolionic wars would be great1.
  7. HarryS
    Oct 10, 2009
    10
    Wonderfully thoughtful strategy mechanics and intense, engaging battles. With a vast array of military units and tactics as well as political approaches, Empire is essential for all weathered strategy veterans.
  8. JasonL
    Oct 11, 2009
    8
    Its a great game and even though i cant seem to figure out how to play as the united states on single player its great. The riflemen fire like i expected they would and the battles are more realistic than the other total war games.
  9. JimmyH
    Oct 12, 2009
    8
    Aside from the slow down during HUGE battles, which really, is only to be expected, this game is incredible. Such depth and tactical diversity means every battle is different. And the naval battles, while confusing at first, add a dimension missing from most games of this nature. Bravo!
  10. PaulW.
    Oct 2, 2009
    9
    A very good game, more so now that they just released another update. Utterly engrosing when you get into it. I would reccomend any Total War game for those who have yet to try any.
  11. GrahamW.
    Oct 5, 2009
    10
    Fantastic game. Has some glitches but, like a bright sun, it's shine obliterates such a wispy cloud. I was blown away be Shogun, then medieval and then Rome. This game blasts volleys into the enemy while the howitzers shell them from above and your horse await the inevitable route. The historical notes are related to the turning of the years. Beethoven dies and a capacitor is Fantastic game. Has some glitches but, like a bright sun, it's shine obliterates such a wispy cloud. I was blown away be Shogun, then medieval and then Rome. This game blasts volleys into the enemy while the howitzers shell them from above and your horse await the inevitable route. The historical notes are related to the turning of the years. Beethoven dies and a capacitor is discovered. Education fun and an awesome spectacle. I haven't been back to my wargames table since Total War came on the scene.… Expand
  12. SeanH
    Oct 6, 2009
    9
    I've spent hours with the frustrating pre-1.4 versions of Empire, and can say that the game is now, finally, living up to its promise. The crippling AI diplomacy is dramatically improved in the latest version, making the solo-campaign a much more enjoyable experience. Frustrating never-ending wars have been alleviated by AI adjustments that make Peace Treaties much easier to sign, AI I've spent hours with the frustrating pre-1.4 versions of Empire, and can say that the game is now, finally, living up to its promise. The crippling AI diplomacy is dramatically improved in the latest version, making the solo-campaign a much more enjoyable experience. Frustrating never-ending wars have been alleviated by AI adjustments that make Peace Treaties much easier to sign, AI will actually offer Peace Treaties unsolicited when it's in their interest, and micronations no longer declare wars senselessly. The AI is also finally capable of naval invasions -- in my latest English campaign, I actually saw the Martha Confederacy, after subduing the entire Indian subcontinent, drop a full-stack into the European theater. After many months of work, Empire has finally developed into a really spectacular game.… Expand
  13. Matt
    Oct 8, 2009
    10
    The best game on my computer. Yes it does occasionally crash (I have an average computer) but with the good autosave, that's fine, and the amazing gameplay compensates. With patches 1.40-5 this game only got better... i've had it for months and it hasn't got old.
  14. BubbaNZ
    Oct 9, 2009
    9
    If you didn't already know, ETW is set in the 18th century and combines 4X strategy and real time battles on land and sea. Back in March I gave this game a 6.1. It was a flaccid bugfest that fell far short of its marketing. Felt I had a different version than that given the 'professional review sites.' Writing now in October '09, it's a totally different If you didn't already know, ETW is set in the 18th century and combines 4X strategy and real time battles on land and sea. Back in March I gave this game a 6.1. It was a flaccid bugfest that fell far short of its marketing. Felt I had a different version than that given the 'professional review sites.' Writing now in October '09, it's a totally different experience. Since March it's received 11 (!) patches, including five major ones. Yes, there are still some (minor) problems; yes, arguably CA mishandled the first few months after release. And multiplayer still isn't there. But there's no game that comes close to a CA title in scope and intelligence, period. If you want strategy on a grand scale, this is now the one to beat. The campaign AI is spritely and the battle AI will surprise you. If you've the machine for it, it looks fabulous. There's a reasonable variety of factions. All in all, hundreds of hours of entertainment. BubbaNZ.… Expand
  15. MarkT
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    Initial experience of this game, the Road to Independence game, is truly magnificent. The gameplay is even better than the tremendous MTW2 and RTW. The setting - of which I was skeptical - is a great breath of fresh air. Muskets change things! Must have for gamers and students of the C18 alike.
  16. JamesD
    Mar 13, 2009
    9
    I broke out in cold sweats when I heard about this release. The TW series re-supplies it's position in the battle of the top PC strategy series of all time(CIV's got a blackeye from its PC3 release and close combat is obviously on R and R, sorry Sim fans but nup). I upgraded my computer to deal with this game so I'm a little dissappointed about the "fear of crash" that has I broke out in cold sweats when I heard about this release. The TW series re-supplies it's position in the battle of the top PC strategy series of all time(CIV's got a blackeye from its PC3 release and close combat is obviously on R and R, sorry Sim fans but nup). I upgraded my computer to deal with this game so I'm a little dissappointed about the "fear of crash" that has never been an issue for me. And what's all the fuss with steam anyway? I don't pretend to know anything about computers but that's why we have IT departments right? If your hobby is fixing programming then moan elsewhere because they've got the fundamentals right (although I haven't finished it and if the end sequence isn't a little rewarding criticism will be forthcoming). So pop quiz, can anyone develop realistic diplomacy for the inner Machavelli? Evidentally not. No Austria I'm not giving it back, get over it. I've never played multiplayer ever (as I said I'm no Einstein) but I think the programmers have tried to icrease the "fluidity" of the battle field. Bugs aside the march and counter march should play a greater role both in the strategic and tactical maps for humans. Maybe??? The kids got an 8.9 in my book, lets see how it develops.… Expand
  17. jan
    Mar 15, 2009
    9
    Wow!! trully i think this is the best from all strategy games and more. This games has everything, and atlast we can control navy battles. This is a huge improvement to total war games and sega. just to point out that i have found some mistakes in the game which are 1. In navy battles when you board ship the the sailors that jump across somehow jump huge distances like planet of the Wow!! trully i think this is the best from all strategy games and more. This games has everything, and atlast we can control navy battles. This is a huge improvement to total war games and sega. just to point out that i have found some mistakes in the game which are 1. In navy battles when you board ship the the sailors that jump across somehow jump huge distances like planet of the apes!! 2. Theres not alot of factions too choose from. 3. You need an excellent computer!!… Expand
  18. AnonymousMC
    Mar 18, 2009
    9
    I have only had one crash and it was my own error so anyone complaining about lag probably has something slowing their computer so Empire can't run properly. I gave this a 9/10 mainly because the only problem i have with the game is the AI. I have medium graphics and the game runs beautifully. I'd like more playable factions like the minor nations but compared to all the otherI have only had one crash and it was my own error so anyone complaining about lag probably has something slowing their computer so Empire can't run properly. I gave this a 9/10 mainly because the only problem i have with the game is the AI. I have medium graphics and the game runs beautifully. I'd like more playable factions like the minor nations but compared to all the other strategy games out there this is by far the best. Too many people are critical because of the hype this game received before it was released and need to realize no game will be perfect and if you're THAT upset with the AI not being smart, up the difficulty and then show me proof it's still too easy to route the enemy. Best total war game so far!… Expand
  19. H.L
    Mar 10, 2009
    8
    My initial nostalgia for this game has worn off now after 30hrs. The game is still rather buggy and had some kinks it needs to work out before it can even consider being great. The most frustrating bug is occasionally trade ships sitting in a trade port will essentially disappear. There are also a few game play issues that need to be sorted out as well. Like when a flag carrier is killed My initial nostalgia for this game has worn off now after 30hrs. The game is still rather buggy and had some kinks it needs to work out before it can even consider being great. The most frustrating bug is occasionally trade ships sitting in a trade port will essentially disappear. There are also a few game play issues that need to be sorted out as well. Like when a flag carrier is killed no one picks the flag up. Also England is disproportionately stacked (no suprise it was developed in England). The trade zones are a cool concept but it would be even better if these were actual zones you could settle. Also no Asia, WTF!?!? I played as the Dutch and one of the monopolies the Dutch had was Japan but its not in the game, neither is Hong Kong. Would also like the play as Portugal, but can't. Also complete lack of diversity among countries it all feels the same playing as a different country. Same units, minor exceptions, and same tech tree. Also same buildings, again a few minor exceptions. I might have been expecting more, and it still is a good game, but I was a little let down.… Expand
  20. MajorP.
    Mar 20, 2009
    9
    So I loved rome. In fact I had Empire, turned it on and then turned it off. Slow. Tricky new stuff. Etc. Then I went back, went a little slow and went nuts. Wow! Its like watching a movie. Its crazy. Sooo good. Sure the ai can lame out. And yes they need to patch the ui so its snap snap fast... but... the stategic game is deep Very, and the land battle rule. Seeing a line of troops run So I loved rome. In fact I had Empire, turned it on and then turned it off. Slow. Tricky new stuff. Etc. Then I went back, went a little slow and went nuts. Wow! Its like watching a movie. Its crazy. Sooo good. Sure the ai can lame out. And yes they need to patch the ui so its snap snap fast... but... the stategic game is deep Very, and the land battle rule. Seeing a line of troops run into a building and start going h to h is amazing. in fact I'd stand and cheer but I'm busy playing. I love this game. MP… Expand
  21. NathenS.
    Mar 3, 2009
    10
    This game is truly an amazing feat from Total War it was everything I expected it too be! Even better I was never a huge strategy fan of these styles they just weren't nearly as interactive in strategy like the Total War series. Seriously I feel any gamer will enjoy this game beyond anything else too date! I was somewhat irritated by another critics review saying the computer feels This game is truly an amazing feat from Total War it was everything I expected it too be! Even better I was never a huge strategy fan of these styles they just weren't nearly as interactive in strategy like the Total War series. Seriously I feel any gamer will enjoy this game beyond anything else too date! I was somewhat irritated by another critics review saying the computer feels to passive. Well reason being is more than likely the difficulty you set and your Empires rateing in terms of technology and other advancements obviously everyone is entitled to their opinion but I hope these things are taken into consideration!… Expand
  22. SamuelW
    Mar 30, 2009
    10
    I haven't noticed any of these 'bugs', strange! I've enjoyed every single minute I've played. The campaign is amazing, the introduction of multiple towns and resource centres within a province are neat too. Multiplayer is great too, although it would be nice if more maps were introduced for 2vs2 and up. (There are plenty of 1vs1 maps)... All-in-all Empire comes I haven't noticed any of these 'bugs', strange! I've enjoyed every single minute I've played. The campaign is amazing, the introduction of multiple towns and resource centres within a province are neat too. Multiplayer is great too, although it would be nice if more maps were introduced for 2vs2 and up. (There are plenty of 1vs1 maps)... All-in-all Empire comes very close to the amazing game that is Rome: Total War, and is possible even on par with it. This game is truly awesome, I've spent countless hours on it (about 50 so far, and I'm a little more than a quarter through my first campaign). Very entertaining!… Expand
  23. SteveG
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Magnificent. I was very concerned with the demo i played on steam not two days before my purchase, load times were gigantic, the game looked and ran very poorly on my computer, the ai was unresponsive and unintelligent, the sounds were repetitive and buggy, indeed i thought i was headed straight for buyers remorse. But after buying and playing the full version for a few hours now, i am Magnificent. I was very concerned with the demo i played on steam not two days before my purchase, load times were gigantic, the game looked and ran very poorly on my computer, the ai was unresponsive and unintelligent, the sounds were repetitive and buggy, indeed i thought i was headed straight for buyers remorse. But after buying and playing the full version for a few hours now, i am anything but disappointed. I found NONE of the problems i experienced in the demo, and it become more apparent to me with each passing minute, that this is the total war game to end all total war games. Every expectation i had for this game was either met or exceeded. There is so much to do on the campaign map, and both land a sea battles are exciting, and extremely tactical. Not to mention the game looks incredible. I have yet to scratch the surface of this wonderful, wonderful game, and i believe it will provide me with more hours of entertainment than both rome and medieval 2 total war combined. My only complaint is that it took some tweaking with the settings to get it to run smoothly on large battles, but i am very pleased with the looks and performance on my 2-year old computer.… Expand
  24. GarethK
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Best Total War Yet! The Grand Campaign is Slightly Daunting at first with many changes from previous Total War games, however when you understand all the features and get used to all the Interface windows, the game becomes one of the best turn-based strategy games. You can also play the road to interdependence, a structured campaign that will guide you through playing the game, so this is Best Total War Yet! The Grand Campaign is Slightly Daunting at first with many changes from previous Total War games, however when you understand all the features and get used to all the Interface windows, the game becomes one of the best turn-based strategy games. You can also play the road to interdependence, a structured campaign that will guide you through playing the game, so this is the best place to start. The AI is improved, the separation of each of the three 'theatres" is great, I also love the separation of buildings from a single city in a region to multiple docks, towns, farms and other places, the management of all of this is made easy with a very informative and intuitive Interface. The scale and the size of the Campaign map combined with the amount of factions is absolutely great! Naval battles are a great addition to the land battles and really add some variety to the RTS aspect of the game. The requirement of steam isn't so bad; most experienced gamers should be used to Steam and have no problems. The additional features of steam are great with Automatic Updates, Backups, in-game Web Browser, Friends/Community management as well as the ability to install it on any pc without the disks is great. The Publishers need some form of DRM, so now steam is becoming the normal now and it is far better than SecuROM or any other protection, only issue is you NEED and internet connection to activate the game, after which you can play off-line without any problems. I would recommend this game to anyone, in particular Strategy fans should absolutely love Empire: Total War.… Expand
  25. DerekB
    Mar 4, 2009
    9
    Great game so far -- the scope of it is a little intimidating, but the UI has been implemented quite well and have simplified things from previous TW games without losing any of the grandeur. This is my favourite time period of military history and CA has not disappointed with its implementations. Breaking a cavalry charge and then rolling up their lines with your own charge sends Great game so far -- the scope of it is a little intimidating, but the UI has been implemented quite well and have simplified things from previous TW games without losing any of the grandeur. This is my favourite time period of military history and CA has not disappointed with its implementations. Breaking a cavalry charge and then rolling up their lines with your own charge sends shivers. To the reviewer "John R.:" I fail to see how giving Empire: TW a 2 when you real complain is with Steam is in anyway constructive.… Expand
  26. JohnH.
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    Empire Total War is in no way bogged down or ruined by Steam. Steam runs fine for me, has no bugs or issues i cant fix. Empire is a great game that lasts a long time and is unlike many other generic RTS games out right now, which is a good thing. AI is much improved over other Total War games and is a challenge to beat, especially in naval battles. The graphics are great and the new story Empire Total War is in no way bogged down or ruined by Steam. Steam runs fine for me, has no bugs or issues i cant fix. Empire is a great game that lasts a long time and is unlike many other generic RTS games out right now, which is a good thing. AI is much improved over other Total War games and is a challenge to beat, especially in naval battles. The graphics are great and the new story telling features and campaigns make this game a must have.… Expand
  27. JaredD
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    This is the best game I've played in a long while. The naval battles are as fun to play as they are to watch, and challenging on top of that. The battle AI is much improved over Total War games in the past; it seems to actually respond to changing situations and redirect its plans mid-battle. The new interface is streamlined so that it is much easier to manage, especially when you This is the best game I've played in a long while. The naval battles are as fun to play as they are to watch, and challenging on top of that. The battle AI is much improved over Total War games in the past; it seems to actually respond to changing situations and redirect its plans mid-battle. The new interface is streamlined so that it is much easier to manage, especially when you start gaining more territory. The only real problems I've had with the game come from Steam, which is a separate issue altogether.… Expand
  28. JosephJ
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    John. R and all other steam haters, if you don't like steam, learn to get up, walk to the store, and buy the disc like us old folks still do! Live in the middle of nowhere? Buy the disc online, and actually have the...dare I mention it...patience for it to arrive at your door. As far as the game goes, Empire doesn't disappoint. Total War games keep getting better and better, and John. R and all other steam haters, if you don't like steam, learn to get up, walk to the store, and buy the disc like us old folks still do! Live in the middle of nowhere? Buy the disc online, and actually have the...dare I mention it...patience for it to arrive at your door. As far as the game goes, Empire doesn't disappoint. Total War games keep getting better and better, and this is no exception. Welcome to the gunpowder age people! Also, I bought and play this game through steam, and I have never had any trouble with the steam app ever, and I'm talking all the way back to 2004.… Expand
  29. BrettD
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    Giving this game a poor review simply based on the fact that you have issue with the Steam client is utterly ridiculous. Having not played the game at all, you are not rating the game, but rating Steam. With that said, it is people like you, John R., that cause inaccuracies in rating review systems. You remind me of all the reviewers on NewEgg who buy new computer parts and give them a 1 Giving this game a poor review simply based on the fact that you have issue with the Steam client is utterly ridiculous. Having not played the game at all, you are not rating the game, but rating Steam. With that said, it is people like you, John R., that cause inaccuracies in rating review systems. You remind me of all the reviewers on NewEgg who buy new computer parts and give them a 1 out of 5 because UPS didn't deliver them on time. Makes no sense at all and is very ignorant to say.… Expand
  30. StuartV
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    Please can people stop saying it's crap due to Steam, neither me nor any of my friends with the game suffered any problems with Steam, you cannot slag Empire off for something that a) Is pretty irrelevant to almost all of the game and b) Works perfectly well for most people. Just because you have happened to have a bad experience with Steam does not make the game bad.
  31. ChrisD
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    One of the best RTS's I've played; each game in the Total War series becomes a more polished and exhilarating experience. Few things are more satisfying than watching a line of infantry unleash a volley at the enemy. As for the comment about Steam, I love the service and wish each game I purchased had Steam functionality; its a great way to stay connected with friends and allows One of the best RTS's I've played; each game in the Total War series becomes a more polished and exhilarating experience. Few things are more satisfying than watching a line of infantry unleash a volley at the enemy. As for the comment about Steam, I love the service and wish each game I purchased had Steam functionality; its a great way to stay connected with friends and allows for ease of updating and multiplayer matchmaking that many non-Steam games deserve.… Expand
  32. Alex
    Mar 5, 2009
    10
    A simply incredible game! The best I have played in a long long time. If you love strategy games and/or TW games you will love this one! The campaign map is more complex than all of the other games combined, and turns can now take hours to complete. With the addition of new theaters of war and trading theaters every move has to be made so carefully! There are also the addition of naval A simply incredible game! The best I have played in a long long time. If you love strategy games and/or TW games you will love this one! The campaign map is more complex than all of the other games combined, and turns can now take hours to complete. With the addition of new theaters of war and trading theaters every move has to be made so carefully! There are also the addition of naval battles now - they look great and play really well. The land battles are out of this world (both in strategy and visuals). The AI is also much improved on previous games, although there could still be some improvements. Further, with the addition of Steam you can quickly join multiplayer battles...the game is also automatically updated! Worth every penny (especially for the replay value - every nation has a completely different strategy on the campaign map).… Expand
  33. [Anonymous]
    Mar 6, 2009
    10
    This is definitely the most immersive and realistic real-time strategy game that I have played to date. The graphics aren't anything groundbreaking, but for such a grand-scale RTS such as itself, I'd say they're outstanding. The sound is exceptional, and the gameplay itself is a bit of a learning curve, but very easy to master. The grand campaign is easier to play, with This is definitely the most immersive and realistic real-time strategy game that I have played to date. The graphics aren't anything groundbreaking, but for such a grand-scale RTS such as itself, I'd say they're outstanding. The sound is exceptional, and the gameplay itself is a bit of a learning curve, but very easy to master. The grand campaign is easier to play, with many things being scaled down in easy-to-use and easy to access format, with some new and fantastic features, like a government policy screen to control all taxes for various groups of people, as well as a diplomacy screen for easy trade and negotiations without having to send a diplomat clear to the other side of the world. Naval battles are also a visually stunning and awe-inspiring approach to a new system of combat for RTS'. However, every game has its flaws, and Empire is no exception. Don't make this ruin it though-because the flaws are few, and I foresee them being easily patched in the near future. I found the game's AI to be way too confused when playing in single player. In battles, the AI never rests defensive unless you're playing a siege map, and they always scatter around like headless chickens facing certain doom. Naval battles are extremely clunky, with it being difficult to individually manage more than 4 ships manually, and if you rely on the auto-fire, you'll be in a world of hurt, with ships sitting dormant whilst moving from side to side, trying to figure out the best direction to a target. There are graphical glitches at times, too, such as when I attempted boarding an enemy ship and the offending ship went clear into the defending ship's interior-but this only happened once. I've found the sound to fade out a few times and then return to normal, but I'm sure this will be fixed in a patch. Flaws notwithstanding, this game receives a perfect score. It's definitely not for people who are impatient and like to charge at everything in sight immediately. I'm actually finding books on battlefield tactics, such as Napoleon's Art of War (Yes, he wrote one too), to be extremely useful in conquering the enemy. I'm completely amazed that a game offers enough realism to be able to take references from history to use as tools for a video game. Speaking of history, the grand campaign offers amazing historical information, as well as occasional discoveries (or at least they were back in the day) corresponding with the appropriate year, such as the first effective smallpox treatment and the use of three basic colors to print the first color picture on a printing press. Empire: Total War is the game for any [military] history buff or for anyone who loves challenges. It offers rich backgrounds to everything, vivid visual detail, and unparalleled realism. You'll find yourself immersed just watching the crew diving off of the ship as it sinks from enemy cannon-fire, or staring at your line-men as they raise their muskets and disappear in a cloud of smoke as the approaching French troops' lines diminish. This game is a must-have, and I know I'll be playing it for years to come.… Expand
  34. AdolfH
    Mar 6, 2009
    9
    EmpireTW is definetly a strategy game, the first few missions you might not have to think but after that you better get your thinking cap on and bunker down with some chips and beer cause your gonna be replaying alot of missions. Reminds me of the first time I played COH, just relax and think lol. Good graphics and runs smooth even on my semi-old puter, except for when you go in close to EmpireTW is definetly a strategy game, the first few missions you might not have to think but after that you better get your thinking cap on and bunker down with some chips and beer cause your gonna be replaying alot of missions. Reminds me of the first time I played COH, just relax and think lol. Good graphics and runs smooth even on my semi-old puter, except for when you go in close to watch the enemy general kiss his own arse ahahahah.… Expand
  35. TomL
    Mar 6, 2009
    9
    Great Game, I'm New to the total war franchise and i was blown away with the graphics and sound. The Battle tutorial and Road to independence campaign are well designed so that 'noobs' like me can pick up up the game in a few hours.. Yeah it does use steam to activate it, but it is the way forward, your game gets patched automatically, you can backup your purchased to Great Game, I'm New to the total war franchise and i was blown away with the graphics and sound. The Battle tutorial and Road to independence campaign are well designed so that 'noobs' like me can pick up up the game in a few hours.. Yeah it does use steam to activate it, but it is the way forward, your game gets patched automatically, you can backup your purchased to dvd-r's and the community around the game is good as well. Most modern gamers use steam and dont have problems with it, you can play the game 'offline' using steams offline game mode, once its been activated.… Expand
  36. Czar
    Mar 8, 2009
    8
    Amazing depth of play - very exciting to watch the 3d RTS battles are just awesome. However, I am getting some weird graphical glitches glitches on a system that plays all games with very little problems. Also the whole steam set up was a pain as after installing from disk Steam decided it also need to be downloaded - luckily I am not the only one and some works-arounds can be found in Amazing depth of play - very exciting to watch the 3d RTS battles are just awesome. However, I am getting some weird graphical glitches glitches on a system that plays all games with very little problems. Also the whole steam set up was a pain as after installing from disk Steam decided it also need to be downloaded - luckily I am not the only one and some works-arounds can be found in forums - in short a brilliant game that just falls short due to some terrible polishing and distribution decisions. I have never been anti-steam but quickly heading that way.… Expand
  37. ScottK
    Mar 9, 2009
    8
    While it's easy to immerse yourself in the game, it's not nice to have the game crash 36 rounds into a campaign. Just when I've got to grips with my expanding empire I can no longer continue. Many others have this problem and there seems to be no solution. I guess it's going to be a long wait for the first patch. However, the worst thing about Total War is the use of While it's easy to immerse yourself in the game, it's not nice to have the game crash 36 rounds into a campaign. Just when I've got to grips with my expanding empire I can no longer continue. Many others have this problem and there seems to be no solution. I guess it's going to be a long wait for the first patch. However, the worst thing about Total War is the use of Steam. Why? It puts people off!… Expand
  38. TS
    Mar 9, 2009
    10
    This game is nothing short of spectacular. Though some have questioned the download method (Steam! Oh Noes!) The game itself is solid, filling in every detail that makes this a 10. There are a few bugs, but they hardly effect gameplay at all, and the more you play the more you get sucked in. Its a good game, buy it.
  39. BrianL
    Mar 9, 2009
    8
    This is a great game... when it works. It works long enough to get serveral hours into a campaign then the campaign gets buged and unless you have a recent save... you may as well start over. I don't know quite what else to say its very frustrating that game developers feel it more important to get the game to market than to have it actually work correctly.
  40. JeromeS
    Apr 21, 2009
    10
    All people who gave this game below ~5 are complete retards. Any who criticised Steam are complete retards. Shut your whore mouth and quit complaining about DRM that isn't there. Steam is the saviour of PC gaming, not DRM you retard.
  41. LukeM.
    Apr 25, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  42. JonathonM
    Apr 7, 2009
    9
    This game is extre,memly good and worth the rating i give it. THere are a few bugs such as i cant select Gilbratar's port without it crashing from overloading it with ships but then again this game's graphics are great and the campaign map is way better. The ship battle's are fun and i love seeing other peoples ships just explode into a bagillion little peices. People have This game is extre,memly good and worth the rating i give it. THere are a few bugs such as i cant select Gilbratar's port without it crashing from overloading it with ships but then again this game's graphics are great and the campaign map is way better. The ship battle's are fun and i love seeing other peoples ships just explode into a bagillion little peices. People have toremember trhis though this is an RTS that is trying to run on FPS graphics and that takes a toll on someone's computer even on medium. The AI is a bit buggy and i wish they could make it so the AI can put troops on ships otherwise britain is invincible against the computer in campaign. Overall it is a very good game that people should be a bit more patient with and hopefully very soon these bugs will become less common.… Expand
  43. Renaldi
    May 1, 2009
    9
    I give it a nine because I would never give a perfect score to any game. empire Total War is the grandest Total War game ever. The campaign map is really global. with Europe, mid east, America and India available for land conquest and South America, Ivory Coast and East Indies available as trade regions. The gameplay is great, the scope of the game is so wide that it probably needs at I give it a nine because I would never give a perfect score to any game. empire Total War is the grandest Total War game ever. The campaign map is really global. with Europe, mid east, America and India available for land conquest and South America, Ivory Coast and East Indies available as trade regions. The gameplay is great, the scope of the game is so wide that it probably needs at least a few months to try all the factions in campaign. The naval battle is also great. Ships could blow up into pieces because they did in RL. Imo this game is a must have for anyone who thinks that he or she is a 17th century history buffs and anyone who simply appreciate a terrific game(they don't come often).… Expand
  44. SamM
    May 15, 2009
    9
    Ok, first things first, I'm not sure how you can rate a game because of Steam and also the game might crash either a, because your computers crap or b, you have been a noob and are trying to run a new graphics card on unstable drivers. This game is awsome and Steam has never let me down the sheer power that empire total war delivers is outstanding and amazing whilst the graphics are Ok, first things first, I'm not sure how you can rate a game because of Steam and also the game might crash either a, because your computers crap or b, you have been a noob and are trying to run a new graphics card on unstable drivers. This game is awsome and Steam has never let me down the sheer power that empire total war delivers is outstanding and amazing whilst the graphics are breathtaking and with no crash in sight for me. This game is easily best downloaded outside of Steam since I do know that Steam can sometimes have problems downloading instantly (GTA 4 was a bit of a hassle for me). But I give Steam a good rating and I disagree with people saying it's bad 9 times out of 10 its either a, your internet connection or b, your computer. This is an awsome game and earns its place within the history books of gaming!… Expand
  45. CW
    May 31, 2009
    8
    A good game, I like the new areas to play in, and the diplomacy is a lot easier to use. The series has become more accessable after this game, but the fact that you have to use steam to even play it is dissapointing. I haven't had any technical issues like the ones others have described, and overall I enjoy playing it. I just hope that they don't use steam again because I A good game, I like the new areas to play in, and the diplomacy is a lot easier to use. The series has become more accessable after this game, but the fact that you have to use steam to even play it is dissapointing. I haven't had any technical issues like the ones others have described, and overall I enjoy playing it. I just hope that they don't use steam again because I won't be buying the next one if they do.… Expand
  46. iain
    May 30, 2009
    10
    I always see these whiney comments about "it's buggy, it crashes, it's unfair or sea battles boring and so on" and i even saw one bitching about in the campagin that people started with terriroty in america, well genious if you ever pick up a history book you would know that the french and british had their colonies there as well as the dutch,the sea battles i find them a I always see these whiney comments about "it's buggy, it crashes, it's unfair or sea battles boring and so on" and i even saw one bitching about in the campagin that people started with terriroty in america, well genious if you ever pick up a history book you would know that the french and british had their colonies there as well as the dutch,the sea battles i find them a realistic a can be if your a going "there boring" well yes the ships in the 18th century wern't that fast! and also you should really try and get the updates from steam they fix everything becuase i have no bugs that everyone who gives this game a bad score have, oh yea for those whiny basterds who say "it wont work on my computer" are stupid how are using windows 98 or some crappy system, because im playing this game of a damn laptop if it can work on you comp your comp sucks! yes, and for those people who choose the other style of combat in the other games like ME2 or Rome TW please do not comment because yes i do engoy all the other games from TW series but i like this one to because not only dose it have naval battles it brings a whole new perspective to the game unlike the others oh yea for thoues people who try to play the game without steam updates do not post a single remark because it is unfare to the makers of this game and give a real sold resaon why it is bad not "it wont work, or it has bugs, the battles are boring" and what ever else they say.… Expand
  47. MikeF
    May 8, 2009
    10
    What's good about this game has already been said. However, I do not think these low votes people have given it are fair just because they have crappy computers and are mad they can't play the game because of that. This game deserves the highest score out of any RTS. Just because you have a crappy computer and can't play the game doesn't mean the game is bad!
  48. RandyH
    Jun 14, 2009
    9
    Firstly the game requires very specific, and ambiguous computer setups to operate. I lucked out and one of my computers was able to run it (the rest matched the on box requirements, but for some reason it didn't run) and so my laptop runs it - amazingly. The graphics, firstly, are amazing. The region system, if you have ever played the Civilization series or previous TW games, the Firstly the game requires very specific, and ambiguous computer setups to operate. I lucked out and one of my computers was able to run it (the rest matched the on box requirements, but for some reason it didn't run) and so my laptop runs it - amazingly. The graphics, firstly, are amazing. The region system, if you have ever played the Civilization series or previous TW games, the regions are always a city, build in the city, and hope it works. This has a much more realistic, if not perfect, region system. The battle graphics are amazing as always, the naval battles= 10.9 on my scale for this game since that makes this really three games in one- campaign, land, and sea battles are usually independant focuses of other games without the other two. Civ 3, Command and Conquer, Hunting Red October are the examples of games that focus on one of the three, but do not exemplify the other two. That is why this game should be the highest rated and I give it a 9 because there are bugs (I have hit one, and only one, in three weeks of gameplay) and so nothing is ever perfect - so a 9 will suffice. 9.8 to be specific.… Expand
  49. DavidB
    Jun 24, 2009
    8
    While a great game one issue which really bugged me was the fact that you could never see why a nation refused your treaties- that's all, beside a few bugs that have gotten patches recently.
  50. AymericPROFFIT
    Jun 8, 2009
    8
    Un très bon jeu sur le plan immersion. Les commandes sont intuitives comme ces prédécesseurs et certaines améliorations de l'IA sont intéressantes comme une utilisation plus judicieuse de la cavalerie et la mise en place de stratégies réactives a vos propres actes. Les nouveautés comme les batailles navales jouables, lesUn très bon jeu sur le plan immersion. Les commandes sont intuitives comme ces prédécesseurs et certaines améliorations de l'IA sont intéressantes comme une utilisation plus judicieuse de la cavalerie et la mise en place de stratégies réactives a vos propres actes. Les nouveautés comme les batailles navales jouables, les technologies à rechercher, le nouveau système de diplomatie et autre, d'abord déconcertant pour un habitué des total war, se révèlent au final un moteur pour la recherche de toutes les possibilités de jeu existantes (du moins, pour ma part). Mais, car il y a toujours un mais, de trop nombreux bugs dans les batailles et certaines incohérences diplomatiques toujours présentes comme sur les autres total war ternissent ce si bon jeu.… Expand
  51. BenG
    Jul 1, 2009
    9
    Great game. I'm playing it on ultra, fantastic graphics and so far perfect game play... no bugs what so ever.I think the only area I could possibly think of significantly improving this game would be in terms of the ability to align units in a more preferable manner, and the functions of fortifications which seem akward. Overall a fantastic game, which I'm enjoying thoroughly.
  52. TimRawlins
    Jul 7, 2009
    8
    Its a good game. The strategy elelments are just the filler for the real game, which in MHO is the tactical battles, which are amazingl! (10 out of 10). But the campaign is pretty crap really, because the campaign AI is really dumb-ass, every faction goes to war at the drop of a hat and there is ZERO real conversation or meaningful alliance system.

    This game has a ways to go to be    Its a good game. The strategy elelments are just the filler for the real game, which in MHO is the tactical battles, which are amazingl! (10 out of 10). But the campaign is pretty crap really, because the campaign AI is really dumb-ass, every faction goes to war at the drop of a hat and there is ZERO real conversation or meaningful alliance system.

    This game has a ways to go to be really good. The developers need a good hard think about the strategic AI and need to make the alliances and trade and all the diplomacy actually worthwhile. After playing through about 8 campaigns on various difficulties, I think it might actually get interesting if you have a multiplayer campaign, because the AI always acts in the same totally boring way, so there is only ever one way to play a campaign, and you can't lose.

    Maybe with Empire Total War II they will sit down and create an actually interesting game where there is more to it than a linear expansion of your holdings, while most factions are swallowed up and disappear. Maybe you can get victory points by ways of scientific progress,. and peaceful trading and other kinds of things that will mean you actually have to think about a way to win rather than the present unimaginative mode of waiting for everyone else to attack you so you can crush them in self defence.

    I mean for a strategy game, this has pretty well ZERO strategy required.

    The battles though, the battles, they are AWESOME    … Expand
  53. ValentinoGamboa
    Aug 10, 2009
    10
    Awsome much btter than other total wars but unit graphics well still really cool but its the same way rome tw looks all units same but no problem and campaigh may go fast but makes u fight faster and to all the whiners complaining abought boring als its beacuse ur setting difficulty on easy retard and the graphics are still awsome on laptop come on u stupid dumbass
  54. mannyg.
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    The game is great, I would have gaven it a "10" if they put in a little more time and making the game more historic. like music, colors and advents, but all in all for now the game is great and you should buy it .
  55. EdwardV
    Aug 26, 2009
    10
    This game is more than what people just play and get over with this game is telling storys about the men who fought and died.This game can be be played over and over and you still wouldn`t get the same result.This game is the one to stop all other games in the 18th centruy.This is unstopible
  56. MickeyS
    Aug 31, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I've played in years, and I game a few hours a day. It combines RTS with turn based strategy like I have never seen before. From full control over sea and land battles that are awesome, to meticulous turn based tech and structure building. Diplomacy, religion, trading, etc... Best RTS/Turn Based I've played yet. Voting down for crashes seems silly to me. One of the best games I've played in years, and I game a few hours a day. It combines RTS with turn based strategy like I have never seen before. From full control over sea and land battles that are awesome, to meticulous turn based tech and structure building. Diplomacy, religion, trading, etc... Best RTS/Turn Based I've played yet. Voting down for crashes seems silly to me. Could be your machine, etc... should vote on game play, not vague computer issues. It hasn't crashed on me once (three months of playing so far).… Expand
  57. JKing
    Aug 4, 2009
    10
    Absolutely a great game. Now most crashes are fixed. I was a little dissapointed in the game with the crashes but in time all was corrected and I love it! This is definetly worthy of being considred one of the best in the total war series!
  58. DillH
    Aug 5, 2009
    9
    To all the people who are complaining about long installations and such... wtf it took 20 minutes, and my comp is the best, so ignore that shit. Anyway, the gameplay is generally very enjoyable, this is one of the best rts' i've ever played.
  59. SebastienL.
    Aug 8, 2009
    9
    Let me just say this game is great overall, sure they are bugs even a few here and there, yet those thinking that a perfect game exist should leave the gaming community now and spare us all the complaints. The surprising thing is that even average desktop or in my case case high-end laptop with only dual core will work perfectly. Actually the CPU speed has an importance yet those with Let me just say this game is great overall, sure they are bugs even a few here and there, yet those thinking that a perfect game exist should leave the gaming community now and spare us all the complaints. The surprising thing is that even average desktop or in my case case high-end laptop with only dual core will work perfectly. Actually the CPU speed has an importance yet those with quad-core complaining it was not working should return their PC or stop making their own. In any events, I enjoy the game and agree that some of the crashes are at a bad spot but then when is a good time anyway. Spend your money if you are sure your PC will run it, then have fun and even after hours you will still enjoy it.… Expand
  60. CarlF
    Aug 9, 2009
    10
    I think this is the best game ever played. Even though 15 GB i quite a lot for a game. I've just got myself a new grafic card, so there's no problem there.But i didn't like to have a Total War game on Steam but it works, so that's why i gave it a 10.
  61. FatMan
    Sep 2, 2009
    10
    I don't know what is wrong with u ppl's computers, seriously. Steam works perfectly fine, and for Half Life 2 as well. The GAME IS NOT SLOW, just u ppl's cmops suck. A battle for me loads in 13 or less seconds, even te big ones, sure the custom battles are shit, but great campaign makes up for it! Even thouhg u can play as only 12 Nations is still enjoy it, adn the part I don't know what is wrong with u ppl's computers, seriously. Steam works perfectly fine, and for Half Life 2 as well. The GAME IS NOT SLOW, just u ppl's cmops suck. A battle for me loads in 13 or less seconds, even te big ones, sure the custom battles are shit, but great campaign makes up for it! Even thouhg u can play as only 12 Nations is still enjoy it, adn the part about crappy AI is only partly true. The AI IS AGRESSIVE and i have seen seaborne invasions happen, like a french capture of Ceylon. In around 50 turns the map looks so diffrent, Prussia has slaughtered everyone around it, Sweden is kicking Scandinavian ass, Spain has the Iberian and other areas, and the Maratha have all of India, those are just some examples. Crashes happen only around every 40 turns for me, and never during battles, so u ppl clearly have a CRAP COMP. Overall, aside from some very minor bugs, everything else is fine with the game.… Expand
  62. JoseM
    Sep 7, 2009
    10
    Very good design, over exceeds expectations. Entertainment and spread history knowledge among players, congratulations to designers.
  63. Delta23h
    Jan 31, 2010
    8
    I can agree with some of those votes but i think that the problem does not lie with the game manufactures its Steam. Steam is processor intensive as it has to load with the game or you cannot play the game. I open my processes and find steam running higher then most programs i run normally and its not a primary selected program. Steam needs to get off there asses and fix this issue. If i I can agree with some of those votes but i think that the problem does not lie with the game manufactures its Steam. Steam is processor intensive as it has to load with the game or you cannot play the game. I open my processes and find steam running higher then most programs i run normally and its not a primary selected program. Steam needs to get off there asses and fix this issue. If i sut down stean i cant play total war at all. so why should i play a game that a distributor takes all of the fun out of buy making the game laggy trust me I have done the tests on my system and if i can get it to run with out steam in the back ground please let me know! because its giving the manifacture a bad name!… Expand
  64. KurtA.
    Oct 1, 2009
    9
    I will admit that the game was as buggy as a swampland upon release, and that that state persisted for quite some time, but that is not the case now. With patch 1.4 released and 1.5 on the way The Creative Assembly have started to deliver on their promises and make Empire: Total War into a thoroughly enjoyable and highly polished game, just as it always should have been.
  65. LucaD
    Oct 11, 2009
    8
    This game is good but on the single player mode it makes me crazy that the enemy arms comes and burn a twon there no troops ore a steal every round my new technologie but the fight mode is awsome, a other point is that when the infantry is fire than its seems like they have a M4 in burst mode.
  66. BrendanW.
    Oct 13, 2009
    8
    Once you get the game working, it's actually very fun. Of course, I did have to go through about a day of tweaking, updating my drivers, and graphics adjusting, but with that out of the way, it's a welcome addition to the Total War Series in my opinion. If one is thinking of buying this game, please make sure that your computer is strong enough to run it in the first place, as I Once you get the game working, it's actually very fun. Of course, I did have to go through about a day of tweaking, updating my drivers, and graphics adjusting, but with that out of the way, it's a welcome addition to the Total War Series in my opinion. If one is thinking of buying this game, please make sure that your computer is strong enough to run it in the first place, as I would've easily given this game a 2 or 3 if I hadn't known how well Empire could run after a bit of adjusting.… Expand
  67. EctoP
    Oct 15, 2009
    8
    Sure it has some flaws, here and there a major bug. Bit the patches have been coming steadily and the game is still alone at the top. Nothing comes close tot the TW series in this genre. Now if only CA would provide the modtools so ETW can be polished and upgraded to a straight 9.
  68. OleK
    Oct 19, 2009
    9
    Great and gameplay that makes me an emperor in the world of Total War. Many new nations and countries are using the European campaign map and most of them I never learned about in history lessons. This is really great. The technology -tree is a fine adition that gives alot of information about the different technologies. This is also something I never learned about in history lessons. A Great and gameplay that makes me an emperor in the world of Total War. Many new nations and countries are using the European campaign map and most of them I never learned about in history lessons. This is really great. The technology -tree is a fine adition that gives alot of information about the different technologies. This is also something I never learned about in history lessons. A grand game indead.… Expand
  69. JasonH
    Dec 17, 2009
    10
    An absolute masterpiece. With a powerful PC, I can run this game with everything one Very High or Ultra, and it is smooth. The detail present is incredible, the range of units, the range of buildings, the different forces you can play, etc make it superb. Now the prospect of Napoleon Total War has me waiting impatiently. Since Shogun I have followed this gaming franchise, and it just gets An absolute masterpiece. With a powerful PC, I can run this game with everything one Very High or Ultra, and it is smooth. The detail present is incredible, the range of units, the range of buildings, the different forces you can play, etc make it superb. Now the prospect of Napoleon Total War has me waiting impatiently. Since Shogun I have followed this gaming franchise, and it just gets better and better. I only hope that there is scope for more games and perhaps even a full global theatre in the future. Perhaps the First World War or American Civil War?… Expand
  70. RomanE
    Dec 4, 2009
    9
    I bought the Special Forces edition when the game came out. I had no problems installing it, and the game has been running fine on my system. (Athlon 3200/64 with 4Gb Ram, ATI Radeon HD 3600 with 2Gb Ram, XP with all service packs). I have had very few crashes, and the gameplay has improved with each patch. I have been an avid devotee of the Total War series, and while there are some I bought the Special Forces edition when the game came out. I had no problems installing it, and the game has been running fine on my system. (Athlon 3200/64 with 4Gb Ram, ATI Radeon HD 3600 with 2Gb Ram, XP with all service packs). I have had very few crashes, and the gameplay has improved with each patch. I have been an avid devotee of the Total War series, and while there are some problems, all in all, I have found this game the best so far. I am going to purchase Napoleon when it is released, as I have always had a fascination with this period of military history. I have been able to overlook the various minor problems with each game, because the overall experience and immersion is so compelling.… Expand
  71. RolfK.
    Mar 10, 2009
    10
    After you gotten passed the crap application and the way it works called STEAM, (Steam is the worst thing there for game applications, yet they convince developers with fake truths). You get to enjoy a great game. In the beginning the it will be rough to get the going with the game, but this is a learning curve, the more you play it the more you get attuned. A big recommendation is stop After you gotten passed the crap application and the way it works called STEAM, (Steam is the worst thing there for game applications, yet they convince developers with fake truths). You get to enjoy a great game. In the beginning the it will be rough to get the going with the game, but this is a learning curve, the more you play it the more you get attuned. A big recommendation is stop playing easy after you gotten a few provinces and won a few 50-50 odds battles on land and then go towards normal. After you did the same there, but also with fleet battles, with some lesser odds for you go to a higher difficulty. That way you have learned enough for battles and can taste the strength. (The hardest I recommend after defeating a major power on hard due some lesser deaths they get in battles).… Expand
  72. SigurdB
    Mar 11, 2009
    10
    The diversity and depth of gameplay in Empire is one of the best i have seen so far. They have managed with perfection to implement things you did not even realise you missed before, but now flows natualy. The civ type gameplay has been improved imencely making it more realistic for players to contrl. On the battlefront not much has changed apart from a new era (and the tech that The diversity and depth of gameplay in Empire is one of the best i have seen so far. They have managed with perfection to implement things you did not even realise you missed before, but now flows natualy. The civ type gameplay has been improved imencely making it more realistic for players to contrl. On the battlefront not much has changed apart from a new era (and the tech that follows). Because it was not needed to change it to much.… Expand
  73. TylerH
    Mar 10, 2009
    9
    I bought this game with a 50/50 chance of knowing that I may or may not have liked it. I installed it and immediately I loved it. The game play was a lot easier to learn than I thought it would be; very simplistic on how to manage your territory, armies, etc, etc. I guess I
  74. AlkarinV
    Mar 10, 2009
    9
    i give it a nine. it is a solid game. love the time period and the games historical accuracy. Its not the perfect game from the gods but it is indeed the best game out and if your a fan of strategy games or the time period this game is a MUST. ive even had some of my friends who don't play strategy games fall in love with this. there are a few bugs/crashes but they aren't that i give it a nine. it is a solid game. love the time period and the games historical accuracy. Its not the perfect game from the gods but it is indeed the best game out and if your a fan of strategy games or the time period this game is a MUST. ive even had some of my friends who don't play strategy games fall in love with this. there are a few bugs/crashes but they aren't that frequent nor serious. If you don't have the game yet get it! it is definitely worth it unless your a spoiled brat who expects everything to be perfect.… Expand
  75. DougO
    Mar 12, 2009
    9
    Despite some issues with the Steam release and some needed polishing, I have have had no major problems with the game (keep in mind I have to run it on min. specs due to the age of my computer). The A.I. has done fairly well, for me, as it has challenged me more than Rome Total War or Medieval II Total War. I think some serious patching is needed and CA and Sega needs to listen to its Despite some issues with the Steam release and some needed polishing, I have have had no major problems with the game (keep in mind I have to run it on min. specs due to the age of my computer). The A.I. has done fairly well, for me, as it has challenged me more than Rome Total War or Medieval II Total War. I think some serious patching is needed and CA and Sega needs to listen to its community of players, but the game is much better than I expected after the fall off in quality from Shogun and the original Medieval Total War.… Expand
  76. JohnnyT
    Mar 12, 2009
    10
    This is one of the best games i have ever played it runs through the period of 1700-1799 as far as i know and has brilliant gameplay features. You can go practically all over the world, and as a new feature Sea Naval battles that just practically pwn. for those who complete games fast there is online too and a second campaign for America. There are very little bugs i have seen so far and This is one of the best games i have ever played it runs through the period of 1700-1799 as far as i know and has brilliant gameplay features. You can go practically all over the world, and as a new feature Sea Naval battles that just practically pwn. for those who complete games fast there is online too and a second campaign for America. There are very little bugs i have seen so far and graphics are brilliant for a real time strategy game. The tactics are easy to follow and in game battle is much more realistic, the multiplayer is fantastic, and slow motion never gets old :D all in all i give this 10/10.… Expand
  77. JoelS.
    Mar 10, 2009
    9
    I feel John R. was too harsh. The game is the best in the total war series so far! Yes, steam is a little annoying, and yes there are a few bugs and unfulfilled promises as far as multiplayer is concerned, but overall the game is incredible! Bugs will, I'm sure, be addressed by CA soon enough. Well worth the money and time!
  78. AP
    Mar 12, 2009
    9
    Excellent game. THe campaign is enormous, the graphics are excellent, and the gameplay is everything I could have expected. For me, there are some bugs, but not many and those that are there are minor. Almost everything I could have wanted. The almost keeps it from a 10. Some minor things like the entire regiment having to be still for anyone to fire, and some minor bugs keep it from a Excellent game. THe campaign is enormous, the graphics are excellent, and the gameplay is everything I could have expected. For me, there are some bugs, but not many and those that are there are minor. Almost everything I could have wanted. The almost keeps it from a 10. Some minor things like the entire regiment having to be still for anyone to fire, and some minor bugs keep it from a 10. Oh and Steam is the only good drm option out there, and to be honest, the companies need drm. Steam is awesome and I wish all my games were on steam.… Expand
  79. PAC
    Mar 12, 2009
    8
    As a loyal fan of the Total War experience, I am both impressed and a little disappointed. Many of the things that should have been ironed out in earlier versions seem to have been over-stepped in favour of the new design, particularly in campaign mode, which seems to have taken a step backwards. Instead of the inviting 3D map with quality graphical icons, it has an almost cartoon As a loyal fan of the Total War experience, I am both impressed and a little disappointed. Many of the things that should have been ironed out in earlier versions seem to have been over-stepped in favour of the new design, particularly in campaign mode, which seems to have taken a step backwards. Instead of the inviting 3D map with quality graphical icons, it has an almost cartoon quality, the sea shines like plastic and figures, originally so elegantly mounted like playing pieces from a chess game, now look thin and sallow. There also seems to have been a move towards Imperial Glory style unit icons, although the economic and development system seems to have taken a turn for the worse. Somehow it just looks... well, basic. Then there are all the really annoying mouse-over tabs that flash before your eyes before you can finish reading them. REALLY annoying. Simple things, like unit description pop-ups can't be dragged out of the line of sight and the help advisor is fixed annoying in the corner so that when you use the nice touch of renaming your units, the advisor gets in the way. It doesn't always close down either. On the battlefield, there is no doubt that this game rules supreme. It offers the best yet in battlefield tactical feel and the graphics where treated right ARE amazing. However, there are still let downs. Collapsing Walls still look like the large chidish building blocks that breakup in Rome TW and you can see through the Ships in naval combat, which can spoil the effect somewhat. The biggest failure however is simply the failure to embrace Total War. Instead of focusing just on the battlefield level, this game has the potential to expand it's following by creating a multiplayer campaign function. Relatively easy to do compared with the graphic challenges of the battles themselves but endlessly rewarding if you consider that fighting other commanders is eminently more challenging than a computer AI. Campaigns are the future of where this format needs to go, and on this level Emprie TW failed.… Expand
  80. SantiagoElizalde
    Mar 13, 2009
    8
    The game is almost perfect at its conception, game features are almost endless to describe and the graphics are truly breathtaking for the enormous scale of the game. Just like all the TW titles that came before this, this game is a black hole sucking all my free time. I think It should be a perfect 10. However, just like in previous installments of the series, this game is quirky and The game is almost perfect at its conception, game features are almost endless to describe and the graphics are truly breathtaking for the enormous scale of the game. Just like all the TW titles that came before this, this game is a black hole sucking all my free time. I think It should be a perfect 10. However, just like in previous installments of the series, this game is quirky and buggy. I have a very powerfull PC that can run this game at super high settings, then tell me why do I have to put up with all-low settings so the game wont crash on a video? what is happening here? If the game wasnt worth a dime, I wouldnt care about this and dump it in the trash, but its so frustrsting to be completely addicted to a game that wont stop crashing! the AI is also a bit frustrating, we [again] are facing AI opponents that dont know how to invade through sea and that think that militia scares the hell out of human players! w00t? Cmon Creative Assembly, I know you can do better!...for the time being, Ill give it an 8.… Expand
  81. Alex
    Mar 13, 2009
    10
    A simply incredible game! The best I have played in a long long time. If you love strategy games and/or TW games you will love this one! The campaign map is more complex than all of the other games combined, and turns can now take hours to complete. With the addition of new theaters of war and trading theaters every move has to be made so carefully! There are also the addition of naval A simply incredible game! The best I have played in a long long time. If you love strategy games and/or TW games you will love this one! The campaign map is more complex than all of the other games combined, and turns can now take hours to complete. With the addition of new theaters of war and trading theaters every move has to be made so carefully! There are also the addition of naval battles now - they look great and play really well. The land battles are out of this world (both in strategy and visuals). The AI is also much improved on previous games, although there could still be some improvements. Further, with the addition of Steam you can quickly join multiplayer battles...the game is also automatically updated! Worth every penny (especially for the replay value - every nation has a completely different strategy on the campaign map).… Expand
  82. Riordan
    Mar 14, 2009
    10
    Brilliant game, got the total war feel while bringing it to the 17 hundreds! Brilliant units, and beautiful graphics. Naval battles while being widely appreciated by most were not high on the list for me but they are very good none the less. The only thing i wished for was the 'British Grenediers' song being played as the redcoats marched into battle! But alas it was not meant to be!
  83. JimP.
    Mar 14, 2009
    9
    Empire: Total War is a mixture of the familiar and a little something new for Total War fans. The game has similar elements to the Total War series: the map, the movement, unit creation, battle system, etc. The developers also added in some extras: a more complex economic system, a tech tree, and more imperial micromanaging. It is highly recommended that you begin by playing the tutorial Empire: Total War is a mixture of the familiar and a little something new for Total War fans. The game has similar elements to the Total War series: the map, the movement, unit creation, battle system, etc. The developers also added in some extras: a more complex economic system, a tech tree, and more imperial micromanaging. It is highly recommended that you begin by playing the tutorial campaign, "The Road to Independence" before diving into the main game. It teaches you quite a bit about how the game handles. Although, if you don't mind going through a few play-throughs and completely messing things up, then dive right into the Grand Campaign. The turn-based Grand Campaign gives you a large litany of nations to choose from in the beginning, ranging from several "Major Nations" in Europe to the Maratha Confederacy in India. I've looked up some FAQs about unlocking other nations to play, and apparently the ones available at the start are all there are to play. I was slightly disappointed at this since I saw some very interesting groups I wanted to try out (the Mughal Empire, the Persians, the Native American nations...). The world map now contains 3 distinct areas: Europe, India, and the Americas with several minor areas you can use for overseas trading (and piracy). The map now has resources you can trade, from furs, to cotton, to tobacco, to sugar, and lumber. There is also industry that you can build up that generates income for maintaining a massive empire. However, you have to balance the industrialization of your empire with the happiness of two classes of citizens, the nobility and the lower classes (both the middle and the lower classes). You have to maintain ministers for various offices in your government and they impact how efficient your government is. If your people become too unhappy with how you're running things, they may overthrow your current government for a new one. More emphasis is put on management than in the previous titles. The real-time battles still share the same frustrating AI glitches as previous titles. If a regiment of troops are getting in position to fire and one guy is straggling behind, the entire regiment thinks it's a great idea to wait for the guy to catch up before they fire at the enemy. This usually results in a volley or two getting shot into your own ranks, depleting both numbers and morale. Sometimes when you ask a regiment to fire at an incoming set of troops, they stand there doing nothing, as if somehow your command to "shoot" got lost in translation somewhere. But thankfully, the opponent's AI gets stuck at the same time too. But now artillery, cavalry, and infantry all play their own special roles and with the use of more options when in combat, more variety exists for combat than before. Ordering and watching a bayonet charge is lots of fun and never gets old. The graphics certainly have improved, although since I have to run it in low resolution, some of the troops on the battlefield render fairly slowly and oftentimes look like something out of the 1980s for a few seconds before coming into their 3D glory. Overall, I like Empire more than Medieval or Rome in most respects. Although I miss the console to give myself extra money when I'm playing a harder civilization, if you are a good manager of money and military you can easily stay within your means, make an empire, and have quite a lot of fun doing it.… Expand
  84. RuudC
    Mar 14, 2009
    10
    I really like this game as a real totalwar fan. It's the best game ever played! Like everytime before I can't choose what nation because I all like them to much, especcialy in empire totalwar because whit all factions you need another stratagy. some require a lot of trade and some big powers. The only thing I hate is that people give bad ratings because of the bugs.. if they had I really like this game as a real totalwar fan. It's the best game ever played! Like everytime before I can't choose what nation because I all like them to much, especcialy in empire totalwar because whit all factions you need another stratagy. some require a lot of trade and some big powers. The only thing I hate is that people give bad ratings because of the bugs.. if they had readed the forums and blogs a little better they would know it contained those on the beginning of the game. but they will all update it!!… Expand
  85. PhilB
    Mar 14, 2009
    8
    Anyone who has given this game 10 has not played it or just marked for aesthetically. I have played all the TW series and this is both the most exciting and dissapointing at the same time. Some of the land battles i have had are great with the varying terrain and buildings the tactics required have improved. Also the sea battles are tense long affairs that require skill and tactics. (If Anyone who has given this game 10 has not played it or just marked for aesthetically. I have played all the TW series and this is both the most exciting and dissapointing at the same time. Some of the land battles i have had are great with the varying terrain and buildings the tactics required have improved. Also the sea battles are tense long affairs that require skill and tactics. (If you get into a mess too often then your not playing them right) Quite often using superior maneuvering and angles to defeat bigger fleets.The research tree is also a welcome addition; as are developments outside the main towns and cities (adds more flexibility and tactical problems). I also love the trade part and again this adds more tactics and gameplay. The not so good is poor AI particularly the lack of aggression (except the cherokees who have drivenoff 2 invasions by me the British) Is the AI broke for the major nations? Land invasions are not coded in/broke? Pathfinding needs some work but is not that bad (seen a lot worse). I also think the diplomacy system needs tweaking. With a few patches the game can be up there with some of the best, I have enjoyed playing it. Phil… Expand
  86. AnthonyE
    Mar 18, 2009
    9
    I was unsure about the units having guns before I played the game but now I've found the battle are easier for me to control than the messy blood bath it used to be. I'm actually manning every battle now instead of auto-resolving and its on a difficulty above which I was playing before. This doesn't make an easy game however, just more user friendly. I'll need a lot I was unsure about the units having guns before I played the game but now I've found the battle are easier for me to control than the messy blood bath it used to be. I'm actually manning every battle now instead of auto-resolving and its on a difficulty above which I was playing before. This doesn't make an easy game however, just more user friendly. I'll need a lot more practice with the naval battles however, before I can pull them off without using a force twice the size of my opponents.… Expand
  87. PaulS
    Mar 19, 2009
    9
    I think by now everyone understands the headaches that steam has caused, get over it. I'll take dealing with steam over dealing with Securom any day of the week. I've run Empire on three different computers now, one barely meeting minimum spec, one in the middle and a higher end machine and it ran just fine on all three, if you're having lag or CTD issues try updating your I think by now everyone understands the headaches that steam has caused, get over it. I'll take dealing with steam over dealing with Securom any day of the week. I've run Empire on three different computers now, one barely meeting minimum spec, one in the middle and a higher end machine and it ran just fine on all three, if you're having lag or CTD issues try updating your drivers, it makes a world of difference. On the whole it is running better for me than Medieval II ever did. The game it's self is gorgeous and the changes to the campaign map and diplomacy are a godsend; yes it's annoying when a nation keeps asking for a province back but it's less annoying than the old ally on turn 1 and attack on turn 2. The new tech tree adds a layer of depth that previous iterations lacked without bogging down game play while adding to the campaign strategy: "oOo that province has a university." The down time between turns is about as long as in Medieval II which is a shock given the sheer number of factions, though this can get bogged down late game as factions are eliminated but the overall speed is better than I had hoped. The game does have it's faults. Path finding is infuriating, especially when defending in fort sieges. Interestingly enough I've only ever had the problem of an under aggressive AI once while playing as Great Britain on VH/VH otherwise in my Prussian and Austrian campaigns the AI has never hesitated to take under manned or otherwise vulnerable cities while raiding with impunity. My biggest problem with the game was the utter lack of variation between factions. I understand that mechanically speaking Line Infantry is Line Infantry but come on they could have atleast used a handful of different models. I'm willing to look the other way when it comes to a lack of mechanical variation but they could have at least done more than recolor the same model over and over again. On the whole it's a beautiful, fun. addictive, and stable game so long as you've kept your drivers up to date and aren't running 50 applications in the background. Looking forward to the up coming multiplayer campaign.… Expand
  88. TorstenK.
    Mar 21, 2009
    8
    Empire Total War is an masterful improvement over Medieval TW II in every conceivable way... it have a new great campaign with a much-improved map and many many more things you have never seen in a TW Series Game before. A few bug fixes and overhauls could turn this into the best Strategy Game ever.. Greetz from Germany
  89. DarrenG.
    Mar 23, 2009
    8
    Ok you can sail a ship which is very good and about time but when you've played medieval total war 2 to tend to think hmm, I've seen this all before. But still a very great game, and if you've never played it before I would say 10 / 10 personally.
  90. JoopvandenH
    Mar 25, 2009
    8
    Being a Total War fan since the very first game (Shogun), I was looking forward to the change in setting in Empire, and wasn't disappointed. The game does a good job in portraying the era, if your PC got the power to show it. My rig is at or above the RECOMMENDED levels, and I play with the graphic setting tuned down (no max. shaders for me), and the game is still laggy in some Being a Total War fan since the very first game (Shogun), I was looking forward to the change in setting in Empire, and wasn't disappointed. The game does a good job in portraying the era, if your PC got the power to show it. My rig is at or above the RECOMMENDED levels, and I play with the graphic setting tuned down (no max. shaders for me), and the game is still laggy in some areas. The campaign map lags a bit in normal play, and a lot if a cutscene is shown. Land battles with full stack armies are also a problem at some particular zoom levels (zoomed fully in or out is OK, but the mid-levels are troublesome), but oddly enough the naval battles play smoothly, even with graphics on maximum settings and with full stack navies. I've experienced two crashes so far, both on the (pre-patched) retail edition. My game has been stable since the first patch came out. A lot has been said about the AI for this game, both before and after release. The battle AI is very good, easily the best in the series so far. The AI makes good use of the new map features (walls, buildings), deploys its cannons on good spots, and will actively try to outflank you if you are entrenched behind a wall. Still, it does not do a good job at protecting its cannons from quick cavalry charges, and is still very vunerable to flanking (a flaw the AI has had in the whole series so far). The naval AI also generally does a good job, but can be tricked rather easily in messing up his own line of battle by approaching it from a different angle (sailing around him and attacking from the rear). The campaign AI however is not so strong. It does do a decent job at raiding your outlying settlements (farms, mines, weavers cottages etc.), but only very rarely attacks your main settlements in force if you keep these well garrisoned. The AI waists no time in attacking weakly protected cities, but if you keep a half stack in them the AI will no longer try to attack it. This makes for very easy and boring gameply, because you can just sit back and build a steamroller army, while the AI wastes his own forces in small attacks at your outlying settlements, easily defeated by sorties from your larger garrisons. Despite this sometimes weak campaign AI, I find that I'm absolutly hooked to this game. I've completed short campaigns with all the major factions , and am now playing three long campaigns. To me, this proves that this game has a strong basis to build from, and all else can be patched or modded. Taken as a whole, this game deserves a solid 8 as is. And when the first mods start appearing, this figure should probably be even higher.… Expand
  91. tacoj
    Mar 27, 2009
    8
    Good game. Plays great (minus the bug crashes) and looks amazing. Epic battles, good map and unit features.... once again however, Pathetic AI. I find myself completely knocking out entire neighboring countries in 15 turns or less. This was the problem with kingdoms and every other release. I destroyed lithuania in 8 turns with teutonic. PLEASE, upgrade the AI b/c this game is boring and Good game. Plays great (minus the bug crashes) and looks amazing. Epic battles, good map and unit features.... once again however, Pathetic AI. I find myself completely knocking out entire neighboring countries in 15 turns or less. This was the problem with kingdoms and every other release. I destroyed lithuania in 8 turns with teutonic. PLEASE, upgrade the AI b/c this game is boring and easy. Wheres the challenge!?!? (if your not going to release updates to the AI, first and foremost do it b4 your next release. watching me fight the AI is like mahatma gandhi vs muhammed ali).… Expand
  92. Lewis
    Mar 27, 2009
    9
    This game is one of the best strategy games out there to date. I've been playing this game for hours on end. Played through the Grand Campaign on medium, and played half-way through another one .... and not once did i encounter any saved file problem and no crashing! For sure the games a bit dodgey at some points but so is every other game out there. Empire Total war is a great game. This game is one of the best strategy games out there to date. I've been playing this game for hours on end. Played through the Grand Campaign on medium, and played half-way through another one .... and not once did i encounter any saved file problem and no crashing! For sure the games a bit dodgey at some points but so is every other game out there. Empire Total war is a great game. my computers not even that great (2.4 Ghz dual core +1 gig Ram + 9600 GT) yet it still manages do some great graphics, yet the loading times do take seem to take for ever! For anyone who enjoys strategy games Empire Total War is unmissable!!!!… Expand
  93. DavidC
    Mar 28, 2009
    8
    I have every Total War game and I have thouroughly rnjoyed every one of them. I looked forward to this one with great anticipation. I have played it now (as the British) up to 1778. I find it absolutely fantastic - really engrossing - with some problems however. My game played flawlessly until about the 1750's, and now I tend to get crashes when I click on a port or a fleet. Also, I have every Total War game and I have thouroughly rnjoyed every one of them. I looked forward to this one with great anticipation. I have played it now (as the British) up to 1778. I find it absolutely fantastic - really engrossing - with some problems however. My game played flawlessly until about the 1750's, and now I tend to get crashes when I click on a port or a fleet. Also, the AI is terribly stupid. Nevertheless, it is a game I will continue to play, with great pleasure - but I do look forward to the patches!!!!!… Expand
  94. StefanP
    Mar 31, 2009
    10
    There are some crashes and sometimes, especially in the late game, the game runs a little slow and/or reacts a little slow (especially when selecting fleets and ports), but I love it. I already finished three Grand Campaigns and I'm about to finish my fourth (~12 more years and already 65 regions). Also no problems in multiplayer.
  95. MikeS
    Mar 30, 2009
    9
    Outstanding game! I can't stop playing it. The game does have a few minor bugs that need to be worked out as exspected with any new release. I'm sure these will be worked out here in the near future. It does not hinder your playing too much at all! All in all, a great game. The naval warfare is fantastic!
  96. DeanD
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Best strategy game to come along in a very long time,this really has taken the total war series to a much higher level. Everything you ever wanted is here,so you always wanted to play the part of a hero?Well now's your chance soldier,the sheer size of the game is emense,you wont be finishing this in a hurry. SO what if steam is part of the install process,for those who moan about it Best strategy game to come along in a very long time,this really has taken the total war series to a much higher level. Everything you ever wanted is here,so you always wanted to play the part of a hero?Well now's your chance soldier,the sheer size of the game is emense,you wont be finishing this in a hurry. SO what if steam is part of the install process,for those who moan about it i say go with it and you may actually see the benefits in a short space of time,least you will get all the updates as they appear and saves you having to regularly search online for patches. In short this total war game is nothing short but the best and greatest war/strategy experience in modern times.… Expand
  97. MojoJojo
    Mar 5, 2009
    8
    Over all a good game, but it still seems to suffer from the usual TW flaws. Units turn to ugly sprites zoomed out, AI is a bit wonky (it IS better now though), units sometimes decide they want to go in odd directions unless you really baby sit them. What really has me worried is that this one looks a lot harder to mod than some of their past games, and those mods really bring the realism Over all a good game, but it still seems to suffer from the usual TW flaws. Units turn to ugly sprites zoomed out, AI is a bit wonky (it IS better now though), units sometimes decide they want to go in odd directions unless you really baby sit them. What really has me worried is that this one looks a lot harder to mod than some of their past games, and those mods really bring the realism into the game that CA seems to forgo.… Expand
  98. JakeL
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    A excellent game, well worth the wait. great interface, great battle, massive campaign (but slightly confusing at first). The Inderpendance campaign is a great way of introducing both experienced and new players to the game. A great update from Medieval 2. Only minor problems such as minor pathfinding issue and sometimes chaotic battles, and of course Steam, but overall a great game and A excellent game, well worth the wait. great interface, great battle, massive campaign (but slightly confusing at first). The Inderpendance campaign is a great way of introducing both experienced and new players to the game. A great update from Medieval 2. Only minor problems such as minor pathfinding issue and sometimes chaotic battles, and of course Steam, but overall a great game and well worth the wait.… Expand
  99. pizzathehut
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    An excellent game! The campaign map is much improved over MTW2. The battles are fun and the new slow motion feature makes it easy to get a handle on ALL of the action. Governors are easier to manage, progress, and the new dynamic of putting them into a cabinet means that all of your governors work together. The great and experienced governors can outweigh the bad done by a 20 year old An excellent game! The campaign map is much improved over MTW2. The battles are fun and the new slow motion feature makes it easy to get a handle on ALL of the action. Governors are easier to manage, progress, and the new dynamic of putting them into a cabinet means that all of your governors work together. The great and experienced governors can outweigh the bad done by a 20 year old fresh picked one. When first loaded, the game seems daunting and overly complex... after 2 hours I felt like I had a good grasp of the basic concepts and a fair hold on the more advanced features. This is the first Total War I have played that will stay on my computer's drive as long as Civilization has.… Expand
  100. AnonymousMC
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    I hope nobody truly rates this game based on Steam because there are other options for buying...But onto the game. It is definitely worth playing for any fans of the Total War series. New strategies and gameplay make for a better and different experience. You feel more immersed into the time period and the politics. My only real complaint would be the head ache of a sometimes dumb as rocksI hope nobody truly rates this game based on Steam because there are other options for buying...But onto the game. It is definitely worth playing for any fans of the Total War series. New strategies and gameplay make for a better and different experience. You feel more immersed into the time period and the politics. My only real complaint would be the head ache of a sometimes dumb as rocks AI and how your own units can act unresponsively to your orders. But the naval battles make up for all. I won't hype it up too much but it is pretty cool. All in all a great game with a few glitches but it is definitely playable and have you coming back for more.… Expand
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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

All reviews »
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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