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. stephen
    Mar 17, 2009
    10
    this game is now one of my favourites, the graphics are good, gameplay with the formations and all , just like a real battle in the 17th hundreds, i am a real fan for RTS games and this is my first total war game, and i hav to say , not much can beat this this.
  2. JohnS
    Mar 24, 2009
    10
    I'm a Total War fan from way back, and I really enjoyed this iteration of the series. The campaign map is much improved, with the decentralized provinces making for a high level of strategy and thought needed for every move and troop placement. Although many users complain about bugs and crashes, I have experienced none of this in over 50 hours of gameplay so far. This is ironic,I'm a Total War fan from way back, and I really enjoyed this iteration of the series. The campaign map is much improved, with the decentralized provinces making for a high level of strategy and thought needed for every move and troop placement. Although many users complain about bugs and crashes, I have experienced none of this in over 50 hours of gameplay so far. This is ironic, considering most games crash and lock up all the time on my machine.… Expand
  3. BryanD
    May 11, 2009
    10
    I dont know what your all crying about. if your crappy comp cant run the game dont give it a low score. Works fine for me and i have a 2 year old vista so stop ur wining. great battles fun gameplay its hard at first but overall a great game. cant see how you dont like it unless you can run it... and thats y it has such a low score.
  4. AndrewD
    May 14, 2009
    10
    This game rocks!!! Plan and simple. Sure some bugs are their but if you save often, which the game does for you, then just go back and dont repeat the move go on one turn and NO PROBLEM. The battles are fun, the campaign challenging, and the new streamlined diplomacy helps tremendously. Way to go Total War!!!!
  5. KurtL
    May 14, 2009
    10
    Like Bryan said, I don't know why all of you are whining. Get new computers. I have a 2 1/2 year old computer with an 8600gt, 1gig of ram, and a 3.2ghz singlecore. The game runs flawlessly on medium settings. Ive only crashed twice. Sure, when the game came out it was really glitchy, but there has been patches and its really improved.
  6. RustyR
    May 18, 2009
    10
    This is possibly one of the best ballanced and presented games I have played and it compares favorably with its previous versions (Rome and Medieval). The combination of grand-strategy and empire managment in a tun-based model with real-time tactical battles is probably the best way to present total global or theatre warfare and makes other so-called real-time strategy (no such thing) This is possibly one of the best ballanced and presented games I have played and it compares favorably with its previous versions (Rome and Medieval). The combination of grand-strategy and empire managment in a tun-based model with real-time tactical battles is probably the best way to present total global or theatre warfare and makes other so-called real-time strategy (no such thing) games look rediculous.… Expand
  7. KevinR
    Jun 21, 2009
    10
    I think that this is a modern classic of gaming. I do not agree with all of the people that say it requires much tweaking. Yes some tweaking would be nice but as a basic game it did everything that it said it would do and could do. Naval Battles:Check Land Battles:Check Historical Accuracy: Check Graphics:Check I have never spent a better $50 in my life. Another great Total War game. I think that this is a modern classic of gaming. I do not agree with all of the people that say it requires much tweaking. Yes some tweaking would be nice but as a basic game it did everything that it said it would do and could do. Naval Battles:Check Land Battles:Check Historical Accuracy: Check Graphics:Check I have never spent a better $50 in my life. Another great Total War game. 10/10 all of the way.… Expand
  8. DaveB
    Dec 22, 2009
    10
    As usual,CA turns out yet another masterful product. As for the people complaining about poor performance, I suggest they try playing on something more advanced than a Commodore 64. It's not the developer's fault if your welfare computer sucks balls.
  9. TemplarGR
    Sep 9, 2016
    10
    The best Total war, the pinnacle of the series. One of the rare occasions where official reviewers scored it right.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    This was much better than Rome and Medieval II, Napoleon and Shogun II began the downward spiral of casualisation. This spiral began because people complained about Empire. Careful what you wish for people, you didn't like the realism of Empire, Rome II is what you eventually got.    … Expand
  10. socokid
    Aug 14, 2010
    10
    An absolutely incredible game.

    I still find it strange how a few off the wall Critic Reviews, and a slew of asinine 0 scores from users for computer/Steam issues, can keep the true greatness of this game from being fully revealed to casual searchers. A user score of 6.7 is shameful for this masterpiece.
  11. jamesdules50
    Aug 26, 2010
    10
    This game is awesome!! i am a video game enthusiast and i work at a video game store and i have to say this game is amazing! it's is by far one of the best games in the world and knocks other games of this category like sid meyers games out of the water. if you are a true fan of history and military strategy or just games in general you have to play this game! the user score it got isThis game is awesome!! i am a video game enthusiast and i work at a video game store and i have to say this game is amazing! it's is by far one of the best games in the world and knocks other games of this category like sid meyers games out of the water. if you are a true fan of history and military strategy or just games in general you have to play this game! the user score it got is definitely not what it deserves and it may have a couple of things wrong with it but it is easy to look over with a game this spectacular! I would recommend this game to anyone who wants to sit down and play a nice addicting game.… Expand
  12. jAVA
    Sep 5, 2010
    10
    I play this game and I think its great. I have all these games and they are great. I am waiting for Shogun2 to come out soon! I have the first one and that is cool but the new Shogun 2 will rock your socks off.
  13. CPTblackadder
    Oct 27, 2010
    10
    this review is written after all the patches and with all the dlc, apart from east units thing, i like it i play as the dutch. the blue guard is THE BEST UNIT. however i find the game crashes often(may be my pc). graphics: speechless. sound: awesome. i would like a mix of napoleon total war and empire. if they made that then total war would rule over everything.
  14. SnowShred
    Nov 14, 2010
    10
    Great game. Good graphics, and very playable. All in all a very amazing game. It is a must have for any strategy enthusiast out there. The graphics are amazing and the battles are intense
  15. TestAce
    Dec 4, 2010
    10
    Since there hasn't been a review since 2009, I thought I should write one. Steam recently released a bunch of updates that fixed the problems that other buyers/users/players were complaining about.

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

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

    Realism is a problem in the game...well to me but thats because I find it annoying. Explanation: If you have cannons overlapping and they fire they will hit, and destroy, the cannon in front of them. Same with ships..if they are set on auto attack and are side to side they will fire their cannons and hit each other. So not really a problem but just annoying that its so realistic.    … Expand
  16. Uncle2fire
    Dec 24, 2010
    10
    This is by far the most amazing game ever created, much better than the previous Medieval 2 and Rome, and in my opinion, better than Napoleon.
    The scope of this game is fantastic, it includes 3 land theatres: Americas (from the Hudson Bay to Guyana), Europe (Iceland to Mesopotamia, Sweden to North Africa) and India (Mesopotamia to Calcutta); and four trade theatres: East Indies, Strait of    This is by far the most amazing game ever created, much better than the previous Medieval 2 and Rome, and in my opinion, better than Napoleon.
    The scope of this game is fantastic, it includes 3 land theatres: Americas (from the Hudson Bay to Guyana), Europe (Iceland to Mesopotamia, Sweden to North Africa) and India (Mesopotamia to Calcutta); and four trade theatres: East Indies, Strait of Madagascar, Ivory Coast, and coast of Brazil. Together, all these spaces combine to give the player a game that truly spreads across the world.
    In this game, there are 12 major factions, 11 of which are playable. They include Great Britain, France, Spain, Austria, Prussia, Poland-Lithuania, Russia, United Provinces, Ottoman Empire, Sweden and the Maratha Confederacy. The United States is also playable in a separate campaign. These factions all have different starting positions, victory conditions, economic and military strengths and diplomatic relations. Even with these factions and the more than 50 others, the game still runs smoothly and naturally through history.
    The graphics are great, especially with the new sea battles, they really help bring the action to life.
    Most of the other reviews complain about Steam. STEAM IS NOT THE GAME! Steam can be a little annoying at times, especially the fact that you cannot play the game without Steam, however, once the game is installed and updated, Steam will hardly ever bother you again.
    To those who gave the game bad reviews because of crashes, it's not the game's fault that you have a faulty computer, if your computer were up to the task, the game would run fine.
    This is my favorite game, and I have played many games. It will be hard to top it, so Creative Assembly should keep up the good work!    … Expand
  17. Se7en
    Mar 15, 2011
    10
    This game was another perfect, eye-popping experience from the genius minds of Creative Assembly. Featuring all the features of past Total War games (minus family trees) and more (research trees), outstanding graphics, and wonderful, strategic large-scale combat. My only complaint is that you can't play as America in the multiplayer coop campaign beta. Otherwise, a must have for any TotalThis game was another perfect, eye-popping experience from the genius minds of Creative Assembly. Featuring all the features of past Total War games (minus family trees) and more (research trees), outstanding graphics, and wonderful, strategic large-scale combat. My only complaint is that you can't play as America in the multiplayer coop campaign beta. Otherwise, a must have for any Total War and history enthusiast.

    Keep in mind that this game has next to no similarities to games such as Command and Conquer and Starcraft 2. If you like fast-paced zerg spam and a quick 30 minute game fix, this game is NOT for you.    … Expand
  18. bud389
    Jul 24, 2012
    10
    Fans don't give this game the due credit it deserves. Not only did it save CA from bankruptcy, but it also revitalized the Total War series by offering a new, original take on 18th Century warfare. It's Naval combat is unprecedented in and almost bar none compared to any and all other naval combat games taking place in the 18th century and it's new diplomacy and tech tree mechanics workFans don't give this game the due credit it deserves. Not only did it save CA from bankruptcy, but it also revitalized the Total War series by offering a new, original take on 18th Century warfare. It's Naval combat is unprecedented in and almost bar none compared to any and all other naval combat games taking place in the 18th century and it's new diplomacy and tech tree mechanics work nearly flawlessly in their functionality.

    The gameplay, oh the gameplay, theres a vast amount of tactics and strategies you can devise against opponents, some nations requiring a different approach because of their methods of warfare and tech. It offers more interactive and varied approach to the campaign, offering a wide amount of variation from not only nation to nation, but region to region as to what you use each one for, be it for military, economic, or even technological advances to your country, or perhaps enhancing its national prestige.    … Expand
  19. Bekenel
    Oct 28, 2011
    10
    Truly an exceptional game. This is one of the very best in the series, alongside Medieval 2 and Napoleon.
    The campaign has been expanded by a massive amount, becoming perhaps two-thirds again the size of that in Medieval 2, which means that the capacity for re-playability has become huge. granted, in the main campaign, the number of playable factions has been reduced from 17 to 11, however    Truly an exceptional game. This is one of the very best in the series, alongside Medieval 2 and Napoleon.
    The campaign has been expanded by a massive amount, becoming perhaps two-thirds again the size of that in Medieval 2, which means that the capacity for re-playability has become huge. granted, in the main campaign, the number of playable factions has been reduced from 17 to 11, however there are now a large number of minor factions, those that are unplayable, very accurately reflecting the various nations around at the time., and these can be exploited both for profit and for territorial expansion.
    Trade has become a huge aspect of the game, encompassing up to perhaps 45% of all income, and the aspects of it, including establishing trade lanes to particular trading resources such as ivory or coffee through your faction's navy, exploitation of regional resources in the Americas and India, and of course raiding other nations' trade lanes, pirating them in an attempt to ruin their economy.
    Technology research has become a hugely important aspect of the game, vital to improvement of your economy, army, navy, and political systems.
    Micromanagement has been more-or-less downgraded, with a single page to control tax rates for a whole theatre rather than individual regions. However unrest and rebellion are still a very prominent threat, and if not managed well, can turn to revolution, that can be turned one way or another, with your choice of preserving your political system, or you can engineer a revolution to change to another.
    The vast scope of the campaign makes the game thoroughly enjoyable, which is also reflected in the other major aspect of the game - your military.
    As with every Total War game, your Army is the most important feature of the entire game. However there are obvious changes to it, reflecting of course the new 18th-century setting. Guns - encompassing muskets, and artillery, are now the weapon of choice for the vast majority of factions, meaning largely different tactics are required to achieve victory - simply charging headlong into combat will get your soldiers shot and likely lose you the battle, unlike with the other games in the series. This does however mean that the factions with still prominent melee-based armies: the native americans and Indian factions, will have to utilise their armies cleverly if they want to defeat their superior european opponents The Navy also now has a massively improved role, since naval combat has become real-time. Combat by sea is a very new addition and is hard to master thanks to the very different tactics needed to succeed than with land battles. The graphics are excellent, however it can lag when settings are too high, but even on low settings, the visuals are rewarding.
    However, as with most games, it does have its weak points. The AI in battle is still not up to scratch, although it has been improved, and in several cases i have found it executes the odd suicidal charge, stupid manoeuvre or sometimes does not move at all. At least twice I have not lost a single soldier thanks to the AI force simply running in front of my gun line, being shot to pieces and retreating, not bothering to engage in combat even once - although amusing, clearly not how it should fight.
    All in all, Empire is one of the best strategy games there has ever been thanks to its immense depth, re-playablity, how well it has been built and though it does have its downfalls, it is well worth playing.    … Expand
  20. Kdall
    Jun 30, 2011
    10
    A monumental strategy game with only a few flaws. The single player campaign is fun and really helps you get a grasp on the game especially if you are unfamiliar with the Total War series. The campaign mode is extremely fun and ripe with re playability, with the short/long campaigns and the multiple nations you can play as. The combat is very fun and requires a great strategic mind,A monumental strategy game with only a few flaws. The single player campaign is fun and really helps you get a grasp on the game especially if you are unfamiliar with the Total War series. The campaign mode is extremely fun and ripe with re playability, with the short/long campaigns and the multiple nations you can play as. The combat is very fun and requires a great strategic mind, even in the single player modes, and with the changing battle terrain depending on your location of the map, you can get some very unique battlefield situations in or against your favor. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a deep strategy game experience.… Expand
  21. jetSetWilly
    Jul 23, 2012
    10
    Pretty much the best RTS available to date. Easy to pick up, fun to experiment with. Great battles both land and see. Great to play skirmish with a friend. Heaps of different ways to play the game. A great way to learn the general geography and the way things were back in the 1700's. All in all a masterpiece when compared to the lame sci-fi style rts crap being pumped out these days. AndPretty much the best RTS available to date. Easy to pick up, fun to experiment with. Great battles both land and see. Great to play skirmish with a friend. Heaps of different ways to play the game. A great way to learn the general geography and the way things were back in the 1700's. All in all a masterpiece when compared to the lame sci-fi style rts crap being pumped out these days. And the graphics, especially for the boats are just inspirational. Its a beautiful enjoyable game! Fact.… Expand
  22. AlexanderVascus
    Jan 30, 2012
    10
    Many of the reviews here are either graphics bugs based on ones system or lag. This game uses shader models that impact animations and almost the game's entire system. For those who's graphics cards can run SM3, but seem to have graphical issues or lag. Change it to SM3 Low, or SM2 on which I play it on.
    Performance is now perfect for me and my frames hardly fall with battles unit sizes on    Many of the reviews here are either graphics bugs based on ones system or lag. This game uses shader models that impact animations and almost the game's entire system. For those who's graphics cards can run SM3, but seem to have graphical issues or lag. Change it to SM3 Low, or SM2 on which I play it on.
    Performance is now perfect for me and my frames hardly fall with battles unit sizes on Ultra and everything except grass turned in basic settings.

    Gameplay- If your a die hard veteran of the Total War franchise, you may find yourself a tad disappointing based on your preferences. The previous games have all been either Medieval or Ancient warfare from Thermopylae or the Fields of Agincourt. This game is the Imperialistic expansion of Europe to the new world and setting a foot hold in India. This game takes some serious strategy both on the game map in turn based strategy to the real-time battles of heated combat the series is so known for. Muskets, cannons, and cavalry, placing is key and making units work together well is required for a less costly victory or victory at all. The Naval combat which was unheard from the previous titles is now in real time rather then CPU calculated and auto-resolved. Whilst you can still do this, I find some of the most fun is the naval combat, that hair raising moment of pulling off a well timed broadside strike can seriously cause some eye satisfying carnage. This game holds up to the franchise. I have had absolutely count it ZERO crashes, and minimal graphic issues, with some common sense and tweaking this game runs like a dream. The modding community has also made the improvements to the game that it should have had at launch, including better fire and smoke textures, and improved naval combat. One such mod is the well known DARTHMOD, playing this game turns the already wonderful vanilla game into a perfect RTS with even more satisfying combat, fixing the inconsistencies the game suffered from beforehand. This game is a gem, and to anyone suffering issues with the game, I don't know what to say to you, complaining about it won't help, consulting these issues on forums like Total War center is highly advised. This game is to good to miss out on because of some graphical issues or bugs, the community is there to help.    … Expand
  23. scottish1900
    Jan 15, 2012
    10
    This game is immensely fun. I have played this game in total for 144 hours so I think I have played this long enough to rate it. I enjoy the units it has, It adds a new difficulty to assaulting forts. It adds a new dimension, Sea warfare, and that is probably the highlight for me. I have had ZERO issues with the game crashing and lagging. I love this game, and i still play it. It may notThis game is immensely fun. I have played this game in total for 144 hours so I think I have played this long enough to rate it. I enjoy the units it has, It adds a new difficulty to assaulting forts. It adds a new dimension, Sea warfare, and that is probably the highlight for me. I have had ZERO issues with the game crashing and lagging. I love this game, and i still play it. It may not be the most realistic in terms of warfare, diplomacy etc, but I still like it.… Expand
  24. Jarec
    Mar 6, 2012
    10
    Fantastic game, seriously. I have spent approximately 600 hours on and off playing this game since release and I still keep coming back to it. I only had a couple of issues with it, both of which were easily fixed by modding. The amount of turns in any given game is woefully low (only 200 turns, this is true for all Total War games and is really not enough). The other issue for me wasFantastic game, seriously. I have spent approximately 600 hours on and off playing this game since release and I still keep coming back to it. I only had a couple of issues with it, both of which were easily fixed by modding. The amount of turns in any given game is woefully low (only 200 turns, this is true for all Total War games and is really not enough). The other issue for me was the unit sizes, the battles felt more like skirmishes as opposed proper epic battles. I would still recommend it to any fans of the Total War series. It's probably my favorite after Medieval II.… Expand
  25. grandusalenius
    Mar 19, 2012
    10
    This is a strategy game. You will have to defend and expand your empire to get a victory. But this is not easy, you will have to manage city tax policies, deal with revolts, use religion to convert population to the one of you're empire, deal with happiness of cities, train land and naval units, use research to develop technology (by constructing science buildings in cities) and otherThis is a strategy game. You will have to defend and expand your empire to get a victory. But this is not easy, you will have to manage city tax policies, deal with revolts, use religion to convert population to the one of you're empire, deal with happiness of cities, train land and naval units, use research to develop technology (by constructing science buildings in cities) and other complex things typical of strategy games. This series of Total War games is special because in here you can manually fight your battles. What i mean is that if you choose to fight an army with your army (or whatever) you have 2 choices: 1) Auto resolve: based on your unit strength stats against the enemy unit strength stats (and other factor like terrain) one will automatically emerge victorious. And 2) you will fight the war yourself. You will direct your units in real time in the battlefield.

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

    Enjoy!    … Expand
  26. TomPD
    May 6, 2012
    10
    When this game first came out, I could understand the negative reviews, this was an unfinished game with too many bugs. But here we are 3 years later and the game has reached its full potential. Go download DarthMod or one of the many other great mods for this game and you have a masterpiece that, if reviewed again today, would receive many more 10 out of 10s. I have played all of theWhen this game first came out, I could understand the negative reviews, this was an unfinished game with too many bugs. But here we are 3 years later and the game has reached its full potential. Go download DarthMod or one of the many other great mods for this game and you have a masterpiece that, if reviewed again today, would receive many more 10 out of 10s. I have played all of the TW games and ETW is my favorite by measure of hours played (over 500). If you like the blend of risk, civilization, and great battles, then this game is a must have.… Expand
  27. Casual_gamer
    Mar 31, 2014
    10
    I truly like this game very much! Its a pitty there are so few players anymore, its difficult to get a hold on a multiplayer battle nowadays. Huge replayablity value.
  28. Ajdino
    Sep 28, 2012
    10
    Hey, how about a 2012 update, huh? I'm shocked at coming on Metacritic to see such low scores for a game I've owned for a long time now, that I adore. There is NO bugs, some of these reviews are absolutely outdated and unreliable. In my opinion, this is the most playable of all the Total War games. The tech branches are much more expansive and really do progress as time goes on and theHey, how about a 2012 update, huh? I'm shocked at coming on Metacritic to see such low scores for a game I've owned for a long time now, that I adore. There is NO bugs, some of these reviews are absolutely outdated and unreliable. In my opinion, this is the most playable of all the Total War games. The tech branches are much more expansive and really do progress as time goes on and the campaign was fantastic. I felt like I was rewriting my text books. It's also one of the more colorful TW games, because it covers such an active century of domination and war. Napoleon felt sort of like a plus 20 year map pack to this gem. This game is just as good as any other TW game, it really is a shame that people wrote hundreds and hundreds of reviews within the first couple of months of the games release, yet when the game is "Fixed" (Because I never played it when it was supposedly bugged) everyone just lose interest in lifting a finger for a new review. I'll simply put it this way, this game is worth every dollar, pound, or euro it costs.… Expand
  29. Muan142
    Mar 14, 2013
    10
    The only thing that might have made this game better is a map of the whole world to conquer. I've logged 201 hours on this in steam. I can't seem to get into the other Total War games that revolve around melee combat. I love my musket men and their formations and maneuvers. I love playing as Russia and spreading Orthodoxy all over the world until there is only one religion destroyingThe only thing that might have made this game better is a map of the whole world to conquer. I've logged 201 hours on this in steam. I can't seem to get into the other Total War games that revolve around melee combat. I love my musket men and their formations and maneuvers. I love playing as Russia and spreading Orthodoxy all over the world until there is only one religion destroying schools and erecting churches in their place. Slowly bombarding a fort to pieces the constricting my forces about it and attacking in waves. Or holding back and assuming a defensive position letting the enemy scater his forces against my line like wind before a stone wall. I simply love this game.… Expand
  30. Benfoster
    Nov 27, 2012
    10
    |It's taken a while and after many patches the game is now the best in the series overall. most of the negative votes are from earlier versions of the game so don't be put of by them not updating their review. perhaps only 2 points of problem. You have to be online and have the patches to get the good experience, it's setting may not rock people boats. otherwise this is the best the series|It's taken a while and after many patches the game is now the best in the series overall. most of the negative votes are from earlier versions of the game so don't be put of by them not updating their review. perhaps only 2 points of problem. You have to be online and have the patches to get the good experience, it's setting may not rock people boats. otherwise this is the best the series has to offer at least until rome 2!… Expand
  31. Cidmusky
    Dec 30, 2012
    10
    The Total war series has had me hooked since medieval:total war. The games are just so epic, especially some of the battles provided your pc is fast enough. I can literally spend all day playing this game its so awesome. An example of how games should be made - it requires a brain!
  32. spitfire23
    Sep 1, 2013
    10
    It's an amazing game that paved the way for later Total War games like Napolean and Shogun. It's glitchy but that can be overlooked most of the time. It could be said that Empire Total War is as revolutionary for the franchise as Rome Total War was. It brought new gameplay elements to the campaign and is overall an epic and enjoyable game.
  33. KhanIndustries
    Sep 2, 2013
    10
    I understand how extreme it is to give a game a 0 or 10 but in this case, I honestly feel it deserves it. A game that provided me with over 1200 hours of gameplay (and still counting) for me, ranks right up there with such legendary games as Master of Orion 2, Sid's Civilization and XCom.

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

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

    If you like strategy games, this is a must have for your collection in my honest opinion. If you can appreciate the risk the developers took with the introduction of so many new mechanics and a scale unmatched by any Total War game before or since; I think some of you may find a game taking its place among a short list of all time favorites.    … Expand
  34. Efa
    Apr 18, 2014
    10
    My undisputed favorite from the Total War series.
    Only complaint is the AI's inability to conduct naval invasions of other land masses + India.
    Great economy, scale and the best style of naval combat from any of the games.
  35. bonaros75
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    Empire Total War, while still a great game in itself, fails to live up to the standards of the previous two and ends up swimming in a sea of mistakes and flaws which weren't there before. Graphically, it is an improvement, although the strategic map seems a lot less friendly and intuitive, while the colours are not as well chosen. However, the biggest problem consists in the simplifying ofEmpire Total War, while still a great game in itself, fails to live up to the standards of the previous two and ends up swimming in a sea of mistakes and flaws which weren't there before. Graphically, it is an improvement, although the strategic map seems a lot less friendly and intuitive, while the colours are not as well chosen. However, the biggest problem consists in the simplifying of core areas, such as building upgrades, or the diplomacy system. There's only a very limited number of buildings to choose from, everything else being upgrades to those 4 or 5 base buildings per settlement. I really resent this. Diplomacy feels less personal and more robotic, while a lot of incentives to play are not there anymore. A good thing are the naval battles, nicely designed, very realistic and atmospheric, but this is not an excuse for neglecting a lot of core areas of the game which were previously sound. Too bad, there was huge potential.… Expand
  36. AlexWizz
    Sep 5, 2013
    10
    Empire is not the best in the series; neither the worst. It fails in some points, but is really fortunate in other, like the sea battles. The historical period is very interesting, with so many different stuff happening at the same time. You should buy this one, the battles are very fun to play and the generals are very charismatic. The campaign is formidable, to conquer the entire world,Empire is not the best in the series; neither the worst. It fails in some points, but is really fortunate in other, like the sea battles. The historical period is very interesting, with so many different stuff happening at the same time. You should buy this one, the battles are very fun to play and the generals are very charismatic. The campaign is formidable, to conquer the entire world, even in videogames, is always very nice!… Expand
  37. sacredzak
    Jan 14, 2014
    10
    All I need to say is....... BEST GAME EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  38. BatFat09
    Sep 17, 2013
    10
    This is simply the greatest total war of all time. It has the best map, in the best age, with the best darthmod. This game is absolutely excellent. Excuse me, I must stretch my empire around the globe.
  39. MrAB
    Oct 31, 2013
    10
    A good game this is. The only problem with the game is the long load time. Otherwise, the factions, the gameplay, the music are all awesome. Creative Assembly deserves all the praise and acclaim they get.
  40. EnNombreDeDios
    Dec 21, 2013
    10
    MAJOR improvement over the past total wars! nothing to complain best rts in its year... great campain map,, realy HUGE, many different units, each faction has its own special units etc, also improved diplomatic (still not the best but ok) AI sucks somtimes but its decent and realy improved again.
  41. total
    Jan 27, 2014
    10
    It is a great game highly recommend it too series fans and newcomers alike. The only problem I have with it is the diplomacy. That is one of the biggest problem that is in all of the total war games. Why don't outer country's want too trade? also one outer thing. This is a great single player but if you want online
    Napoleon: Total War is much better online game then this one. In    It is a great game highly recommend it too series fans and newcomers alike. The only problem I have with it is the diplomacy. That is one of the biggest problem that is in all of the total war games. Why don't outer country's want too trade? also one outer thing. This is a great single player but if you want online
    Napoleon: Total War is much better online game then this one. In Napoleon The graphics are way better, there are more maps to play on and there a lot more units to use in battle.

    On the outer hand Empire way better in single player then Napoleon. In Empire the map is way bigger, a lot more factions to play as and you have a lot more freedom. In Napoleon you have to go by what they did in history in Empire you don't. So you want a vary good single player get this one but if you want a vary online Napoleon Total War is the one to go with    … Expand
  42. eblaster
    Mar 25, 2014
    10
    based on other reviews i thought the game was bad but then i got it i love its my favorite game lots of people say its bad well i dont its a great game for people that like strategy and war.
  43. Jomanponer
    Jun 9, 2014
    10
    Not sure what everyone is complaining about, I thought this game was fun as hell. Good unit selection, nice size maps, long and satisfying campaign, good campaign plot or story as well. Very fun multiplayer just alot of fun in general. Things I would have liked is that I found that their was limited carnage. When I play the other total wars their is destruction everywhere and it feelsNot sure what everyone is complaining about, I thought this game was fun as hell. Good unit selection, nice size maps, long and satisfying campaign, good campaign plot or story as well. Very fun multiplayer just alot of fun in general. Things I would have liked is that I found that their was limited carnage. When I play the other total wars their is destruction everywhere and it feels real, which I want in empire total war however its a a few scattered bodies in a huge map, and I think more melee units would be nice.… Expand
  44. rangermankin
    Sep 25, 2014
    10
    Empire: Total War is an amazingly vast and epic journey that spans the globe more than any of its predecessors or children. Want to invade India, mount war elephants and then ship them to the US to prevent the American revolution? Then do it! It was buggy and extremely frustrating (mainly because I was enjoying it so much) at first but after the tears of patches it runs well and you canEmpire: Total War is an amazingly vast and epic journey that spans the globe more than any of its predecessors or children. Want to invade India, mount war elephants and then ship them to the US to prevent the American revolution? Then do it! It was buggy and extremely frustrating (mainly because I was enjoying it so much) at first but after the tears of patches it runs well and you can finish an epic 150 hour game with no problem. It's inexpensive and thrilling. If you like history, strategy, and real time tactical combat on a massive scale then get it and judge for your self.… Expand
  45. Cech
    May 16, 2017
    10
    Одна из двух лучших стратегий в истории игр

    Не считаю, что рядом с "Империей" и её предшественником "Наполеоном" (вторая лучшая стратегия в истории игр) что-то может даже рядом стоять Тут можно захватить мир и это не выглядит так скучно и нелепо как в "Цивилизации" (не считаю её плохой, но как стратегия слабее в разы) Несколько кампаний, исторические и неисторические события по    Одна из двух лучших стратегий в истории игр

    Не считаю, что рядом с "Империей" и её предшественником "Наполеоном" (вторая лучшая стратегия в истории игр) что-то может даже рядом стоять

    Тут можно захватить мир и это не выглядит так скучно и нелепо как в "Цивилизации" (не считаю её плохой, но как стратегия слабее в разы)

    Несколько кампаний, исторические и неисторические события по вашему желанию. Герои - вполне реальные правители, генералы, адмиралы, министры и, возможно, представители спецслужб.

    В ней есть всё, что мы любим
    - война: эпичные битвы на земле и моркие баталии;
    - отношения: торговля, коалиции, убеждения, угрозы, подкуп и коварство;
    - красивый внешний вид;
    - разнообразные локации;
    - есть место для ролевого отыгрыша;
    - строительство поселений; (привет, Тодд)
    - прокачка, исследования, апгрейд;
    - шпионаж, религиозный бунт и даже государственный переворот, и я не всё в силах перечислить.    … Expand
  46. PisiEfendi
    Jul 23, 2015
    10
    Perfect game. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  47. RaminGray
    May 7, 2016
    10
    i am sorry about people's that have negatived review to this nice game . unfortunately some of player can't wait and think carefully . these games are not exited to them because not action .and so puzzle work to do . you have to command ,role ,economy terms ,also you have to change the history , this people's don't know how to play then comes and write about rts games . i have beeni am sorry about people's that have negatived review to this nice game . unfortunately some of player can't wait and think carefully . these games are not exited to them because not action .and so puzzle work to do . you have to command ,role ,economy terms ,also you have to change the history , this people's don't know how to play then comes and write about rts games . i have been playing rts games from 1995 until now and the Empire:total war is the best rts game on 2009 .… Expand
  48. Yurchik
    Mar 2, 2019
    10
    Game cool! I've only played in Rome: Total War before. Maybe because of this and liked that he played only two, but the battles at sea I was pleasantly surprised! I do not regret that bought. The game is very interesting.
  49. Zyr_S19
    Jul 25, 2022
    10
    Самая лучшая часть серии. Доработали все огрехи и недостатки из прошлых частей
  50. MinehDerp
    Nov 11, 2018
    10
    In my opinion, this game is a masterpiece. I will explain why in a few categories:

    Price: Great value for what you get in this game. Difficulty: Very easy to learn, and great for newcomers to the total war series. Gameplay duration: There is no end. (coming from someone with 227 hours) Graphics: For the time, pretty good. Not many bugs, and AI rarely acts idiotic    In my opinion, this game is a masterpiece. I will explain why in a few categories:

    Price:
    Great value for what you get in this game.

    Difficulty:
    Very easy to learn, and great for newcomers to the total war series.

    Gameplay duration:
    There is no end. (coming from someone with 227 hours)

    Graphics:
    For the time, pretty good. Not many bugs, and AI rarely acts idiotic

    Gameplay:
    I'm going to take a while on this section. You have many options for the gameplay. First, you have the battles. You can either do land, sea, or siege battles. The are many maps, and really fun to command thousands of troops. You can even pop into some real-life scenarios. Including the Battle of Brandywine Creek in the US revolution. Then, you have the campaigns. There is one set campaign, Road to Independence. Which you start in Jamestown, Virginia and go through to Seven Years War and the revolutionary war, including battles against the Powhattans in Jamestown and the Battle Of Bunker Hill. Then. You have the Grand Campaign. You can either play as Great Britain, Spain, Russia, the Ottoman Empire, France, Sweden, Martha Confederacy, Prussia, United Provinces, Poland-Lithuania, and Austria. You take control of that nation and its armies and conquer the world. The AI is non-historic, so it can make for fun and funny gameplay. (In one instance, Austria captured Mexico and Nicaragua xD). One more gameplay option to go: Multiplayer. I haven't played multiplayer though, so i can't judge it :p.

    Replay-ability:
    As you can tell from my 227 hours, this game is very replayable.

    DLC:
    Haven't bought; Can't judge

    In conclusion:
    9.5/10. Very excellent game. I'd recommend it to people of ages 10+. With amazing gameplay, fair graphics, much content, and overall very worth it, I recommend it to you who is reading right now. Thanks for reading my review!    … Expand
  51. SamuelHiller
    May 31, 2023
    10
    Easily my favorite total war game, it’s set during one of the most fascinating points in human history and the mechanics feel far more intuitive than shogun 2 or Rome 2.
  52. JoshL
    Apr 3, 2009
    9
    MY SHORT REVIEW: First of all, for all those complaining of glitches and crashes, don't be so ungrateful and impatient. The game has crashed 3 times for me in 1 month of hardcore gameplay. If you can't cope with expected issues, don't buy the game. Nevertheless, Empire: Total War is one of the most enjoyable experiences in gaming you will ever come across. Yes, there are a MY SHORT REVIEW: First of all, for all those complaining of glitches and crashes, don't be so ungrateful and impatient. The game has crashed 3 times for me in 1 month of hardcore gameplay. If you can't cope with expected issues, don't buy the game. Nevertheless, Empire: Total War is one of the most enjoyable experiences in gaming you will ever come across. Yes, there are a few bugs in it (no not many), and for a title with such massive scope, that should be expected. But these problems are minor and simply annoyances, they can only detract a small amount from an overall pleasant presentation. The naval and land battles are fantastic, incorporating a mix of cannons, cavalry, infantry and battleships. The graphics are amazing on high or ultra, and it certainly lives up to it's reputation in turn based mode. Camera options are redefined, mini-maps are more detailed than before, AI has been improved - what else can you ask for? There is excessive demand on developers to produce a perfect game to the modern market. In my opinion, there are limited flaws in the game itself, and perhaps more with installation. I found Steam to be a terrible hassle, and quite unecessary. Suppose someone didn't have access to the internet but liked playing video games. "The creative assembly" is losing a lot of business by using this idiotic method of signing up. However, Steam can have some advantages, giving users regular updates for patches and new features. The historical accuracy of the game is something many people forget, or take for granted. This a key focus of the Total War series, making education fun. It opens our minds to the realms of 18th century mentality and the progress of the industrial revolution. It broadens our intelligence and understanding of contemporary society in relation to our past. This is what sums it up as a classic. In the end, much enhancement has been added since Medieval: II Total War, and this is, at least by me, appreciated.… Expand
  53. BrianJ
    Oct 8, 2009
    9
    In my opinion this is the best RTS at the moment. - Great game play( As usual for the series) - Great graphics - Lots of new stuff compared to the previous games. There are still bugs, and at release I would have given it 6 or 7, but seeing that they have removed many of the bugs it deserves a 9!
  54. MichaelJohnson
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    Excellent game. Significant AI improvements, magical graphics, deep and complex but still manageable given it's scope.

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

    Overall, a must buy.
  55. CarloD
    Mar 8, 2009
    9
    I think this is is the best game I have ever played, honestly, it takes you back to my favourite time in history, 1700-1850 and immerses you in a true new world. You need some cunning and wits to outsmart your enemies, because the new AI is getting quite realistic now. There are minor bugs, but they will surely be patched by Creative Assembly, just like with the rest of their games.
  56. stevenl
    May 16, 2009
    9
    Steam is crap. I am in Iraq and internet comes in at about 3kbs so having to do anything online is a pain. The game is good though and that is what this rating is for. For people dropping the low scores cause of steam, steam is not the game.
  57. Dan
    Aug 10, 2009
    9
    Excellent game, a few bugs. Gameplay is amazing, whether managing your cities during the campaign or taking charge of your men during battle. There are a few bugs that need to be fixed soon. There are times when the pathing gets screwed up and your men will end up facing the wrong direction. Sometimes the artillery won't unlimber/limber making it impossible to move it. Besides those Excellent game, a few bugs. Gameplay is amazing, whether managing your cities during the campaign or taking charge of your men during battle. There are a few bugs that need to be fixed soon. There are times when the pathing gets screwed up and your men will end up facing the wrong direction. Sometimes the artillery won't unlimber/limber making it impossible to move it. Besides those 2 gameplay issues there is some trouble with online play on rare occasions. Overall, this game is well worth the purchase, I have played this more than most games that I purchase. On another note, I don't know why people are giving this game a bad review when they are upset about downloading it through steam- that is your choice. It will take time to download and install as it is a very large file.… Expand
  58. NathanM
    Mar 6, 2009
    9
    The AI still makes occasionally strange decisions on the battlefield, but is more flexible. Strategically, it demonstrates competency at normal difficulties, have yet to determine its abilities on hard. Graphically, it looks wonderful, and the gameplay is deep (perhaps a little too deep on first glance) if you can overcome the initial shock of seeing so much going down on the campaign The AI still makes occasionally strange decisions on the battlefield, but is more flexible. Strategically, it demonstrates competency at normal difficulties, have yet to determine its abilities on hard. Graphically, it looks wonderful, and the gameplay is deep (perhaps a little too deep on first glance) if you can overcome the initial shock of seeing so much going down on the campaign map. An excellent game, relatively bug-free so far for me. The one thing people seem to hate the most is the inclusion of STEAM, but to be honest I've never had a problem with the program, and I've been using it since 2005. It has yet to crash on me once. Ignore the ranting and raving about how obnoxious STEAM is, and get this game.… Expand
  59. Tom
    Jun 10, 2009
    9
    This is another brilliant release in the TW series the only fault is the slowness of the loading and that is considerabaly small down fall when taking the rest of the games features into account
    This game keeps getting more efficient everytime it is updated by steam.
    And if your particular probelm hasnt been solved in a few months then you might have a reason to complain
  60. Iain
    Jan 13, 2010
    9
    Great game, campaign is mode is good and so is the online play. some problems with battlefield AI and diplomacy, also the writing is hard to read. Not as good as Rome but better than medieval 2
  61. 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.
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. 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
  65. 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
  66. 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
  67. 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
  68. JoãoSalvadoretti
    Mar 30, 2009
    9
    Despite somewhat rushed nature, Empires stand as a great game, offering a great gameplay, begin sea land battles really good. Its only issues rest is the already mentioned rushed state, but even this is begin fixed with a long patch process (off course, it would be better if it did not happen, but still...).
  69. 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
  70. Steinus
    Mar 5, 2009
    9
    It's an amazing game, but the reason for why I don't give it a 10 is:

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

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

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

    Well, I can't list all the mistakes... Worth buying nonetheless, but if you're a history freak you're gonna have some akward moments of "huh?"    … Expand
  71. 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
  72. 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
  73. ClintonLandry
    Mar 7, 2009
    9
    The game is fantastic in its campaign depth. The diplomacy, naval battles and fort system are much improved over previous total war games. The only draw back is the load time for battles and the lack of character depth regarding generals and leaders. There are some attributes but not the depth i would like.
  74. DanielC
    Mar 7, 2009
    9
    'Tis a very polished game next to M2:TW. AI seems at least slightly more responsive. Runs buttery smooth on my computer (may not be the case for everyone). I had no problems with steam, except the long, LONG download. It is still possible others will. Bottom line, another great game by CA.
  75. JamesonClark
    Apr 2, 2009
    9
    great game great addition to my total war lineup i will be playing this for a long time to come. I have not had any of the problems that everyone else seems to be complaining about though... it did once crash when i first got it but thats the only issue so far. My opinion is this game is great.
  76. 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
  77. 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
  78. 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
  79. 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
  80. 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.
  81. 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 .
  82. 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.
  83. 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
  84. TiagoL
    Feb 28, 2010
    9
    The sound effects are just amazing, the land battles aren't boring, the use of gunpowder was very well addapted, the naval battles are the most chalenging issue in the game,and for me, as a portugues, I just loved to see the spanish conquering the portuguese and in the next turn they revolted and appear like a faccion again,very nice detail. Congratulations to the team.
  85. 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.
  86. 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
  87. JamesM
    Dec 25, 2009
    9
    This is an awesome game the fact that it is able to keep 1000+ troops on the battlefield and not lag it outstanding! And i don't know what you guys are talking about because it doesn't lagg a single bit on my 9800GT =)
  88. 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
  89. 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
  90. 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
  91. 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
  92. 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!
  93. 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
  94. 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
  95. 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
  96. 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
  97. BarrieHarris
    Mar 24, 2009
    9
    Fantastic .. some of the campaign features were a little annoying .. but overall it was excellent .. on line play is outstanding .. I would have gone for Empire total war (land) and Empire total war at sea (another game guys .. more money) keep up the good work.
    Bazza
  98. 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
  99. 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!
  100. 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
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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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