Rome: Total War

 PC
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 1490 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,336 out of 1490
  2. Mixed: 110 out of 1490
  3. Negative: 44 out of 1490
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  1. J4MESOX4D
    Oct 26, 2013
    10
    The best strategy game ever made; ingenious in every way. This game is streets ahead of it's sequel nearly a decade later. If you want a good Rome-themed strategy; reinstall this or buy for a pittance as it's one of the most in-depth and engrossing titles produced in any genre.
  2. Stratego
    Dec 2, 2013
    10
    The very only game i keep coming back to even after 9 years.
    Definitely one of the greatest strategy games ever and my all time favourite that i grew up with.
    Great work by The Creative Assembly
  3. TWfreak
    Dec 16, 2013
    10
    This an amazing game, far superior than Rome2 which I'm playing since it's release, without getting bored at all! IT ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  4. thebraveGG
    Dec 20, 2013
    10
    There is just nothing I can say that is bad about this game... Must be one of the, if not the best Stat game of all time.
  5. PvtJackson
    Dec 31, 2013
    10
    This is undoubtedly the best game of the year. With well-written script, amazing graphics which stuns you, especially when you're in battle mode with thousands of soldiers, literally, crashing and fighting for their own factions, and most importantly, impressive AI in level "hard" and "very hard" that catches me on surprise numerous times, Rome Total War earns it's place to be one of theThis is undoubtedly the best game of the year. With well-written script, amazing graphics which stuns you, especially when you're in battle mode with thousands of soldiers, literally, crashing and fighting for their own factions, and most importantly, impressive AI in level "hard" and "very hard" that catches me on surprise numerous times, Rome Total War earns it's place to be one of the greatest Real-time strategy game of all time.… Expand
  6. total
    Jan 27, 2014
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. It is a great game highly recommend it too series fans and newcomers alike. This is Way better then Total War Rome 2. If you want to play rome in this series play this one not Total War Rome 2. It macks Total War Rome 2 look like it was made by noobs
  7. TheBlackPrince
    Feb 4, 2014
    10
    A true classic in gaming history. I'm one of the most strategic gamers out there, and I can glady say that I played this in 2014 and was astonished at how I never bought it before (too busy playing Civ 5). If you think this game is old, think again. True, the graphics are not on par with many newer games, but you have to go in-depth and appreciate the tremendous amount of effort andA true classic in gaming history. I'm one of the most strategic gamers out there, and I can glady say that I played this in 2014 and was astonished at how I never bought it before (too busy playing Civ 5). If you think this game is old, think again. True, the graphics are not on par with many newer games, but you have to go in-depth and appreciate the tremendous amount of effort and artistry put into this game. The campaign makes you think you've seen it all, that your a super power and can't get wiped out by your opposing roman families. Wrong. They strike with a venegence, your enemies return in strength, and then...new units are revealed. This was a shock to me, as I've never seen that happen in a game without some hint of the upcoming units.
    If you like strategy, if you like fierce battle, if you like commanding a max of 2500 units (all shown), then this is the game for you (can't speak for Rome II, haven't played it, but if you tune in to local chats you'll hear its buggy).    … Expand
  8. dandeon
    Mar 1, 2014
    10
    this game is the best game i have ever played. It has good graphics and wonderful buildings but the thing is that when there is to much sword men in the game the game goes slower and it begins to stop so you should be aware of that.
  9. thedirtyrussian
    Aug 13, 2014
    10
    A masterpiece. One of the greatest strategy games every created. The soundtrack? Spectacular. Graphics? Still detailed and awe inspiring to this day. Gameplay? Nearly flawless. The replay-ability in this game will guarantee that you are occupied for many hours fighting battles and expanding your empire. This game got everything right, as it's one of the best in the entire Total War seriesA masterpiece. One of the greatest strategy games every created. The soundtrack? Spectacular. Graphics? Still detailed and awe inspiring to this day. Gameplay? Nearly flawless. The replay-ability in this game will guarantee that you are occupied for many hours fighting battles and expanding your empire. This game got everything right, as it's one of the best in the entire Total War series (with maybe the exception of Shogun 2. That game was incredible). Please do yourself a favor, pick this game up and give it a try. You will not regret it.… Expand
  10. smeeeee
    May 27, 2014
    10
    The graphics are great, the combat animations are real and intense, and most of all this game changed my life... seriously. It got me into Roman history, introduced me to military strategy, and is, really, much more than just a game. All who gave this game less than a 9, shame.
  11. Jomanponer
    Jun 8, 2014
    10
    best game ever. I mean really best game ever along with empire total war and shogun. all 10 out of 10 games. aowidmawda it so bootiful so much memories and aoiwdawod
    CA has sone an amazing job on rome total war. by far the best stragety game out there along with shogun 2 and empire total war and yes ive played civ 5, tropcio, age of empires and all those other games.
  12. Wraithcat
    Dec 18, 2014
    10
    For me, this has to be the definitive Total War Game.

    Rome Total War is in many ways a much better game than those that followed it. The combat and mechanics are fairly straightforward, while not being overly simplified and the campaign management is streamlined and not overly burdensome (completely unlike RTW2.) While not perfect in all ways, it is fairly easy to mod things    For me, this has to be the definitive Total War Game.

    Rome Total War is in many ways a much better game than those that followed it. The combat and mechanics are fairly straightforward, while not being overly simplified and the campaign management is streamlined and not overly burdensome (completely unlike RTW2.)

    While not perfect in all ways, it is fairly easy to mod things yourself, in order to change things around a bit. Want to give barbarian tribes paved roads and stone walls? Easy to do and takes less than five minutes.

    Roman units and hoplites are a bit OP and the IA can be a bit stupid at times, but all in all, the game provides many hours of enjoyable play, while the combat animations are far more realistic and weighty than those using the more recent Total War Engine.

    In the ten year since its release, I'd have easily played well in excess of 1000 hours on this game and after briefly grappling with the disaster that is still RTW2 (even after the Emperor Edition), I can see myself enjoying this gem for many years to come.    … Expand
  13. mujitacaptain
    Oct 27, 2014
    10
    My personally greatest strategy franchise of all time and the best strategy game of all time.Rome:Total War is one big masterpiece of strategy games!!
  14. papadrew7
    Nov 29, 2015
    10
    This game is a masterpiece. I still play this game at least once a year 11 years later and have probably logged over 500 hours into the game. It is my pick for the greatest game of all time.
  15. PeteAkuma
    Aug 23, 2017
    10
    My Childhood! My beloved Memory! Rome Total War will forever be the best strategy game that i've or will ever played! It's the pinnacle of it genre. No strategy game can surpass this masterpiece, this is not an opinion, this is a fact!
    And yes, that was a fanboy ejaculation, but i don't give a fook!
    Roma Invicta!
  16. PhoneyFree
    Apr 27, 2015
    10
    Classic grand strategy game which also allows you to fight tactical pitched battles. Still play the game now and again after many years. The graphics may be dated now but new younger players should try and look beyond this as the core game is still good and enjoyable. Still a solid game and great value for the prices you can get it at now.
  17. eziovonbuttonru
    May 26, 2015
    10
    personally LOVE this game even ten tears later.i will however say this,it seems to me that ever since i began running the game through steam power it seems like there are ALOT more glitches and bugs especially when trying to capture settlements.for instance i played a battle three times over routed the enemy army in the city but wanted to kill the rest for the extra xp but found that apersonally LOVE this game even ten tears later.i will however say this,it seems to me that ever since i began running the game through steam power it seems like there are ALOT more glitches and bugs especially when trying to capture settlements.for instance i played a battle three times over routed the enemy army in the city but wanted to kill the rest for the extra xp but found that a portion of the remaining enemy army had somehow managed to get in between multiple buildings where i could not get to them to do this.i reiiterate 3 TIMES OVER!!!!!!!!! this was not an issue when i had the actual disc itself at times it really is an UNPLAYABLE game but again i only ever had the issues when running through steam i will however say that it is still a very fun game, particularly using the berserker units the germans get,it can be a bit tough when you get to the end of your campaign 50 settlements are tough to control simultaneously but over all i would say the BEST most fun game ive ever played… Expand
  18. DeepEnergy
    Jun 10, 2015
    10
    I really love this game I've had it since its release and still to this day play it quite frequently. While the graphics are old please remember this game is over ten years old back in those days of gaming this was actually pretty good graphic wise for this style of game. Now for the game-play! For your first play-through you'll have to play as one of the three ruling families of Rome, andI really love this game I've had it since its release and still to this day play it quite frequently. While the graphics are old please remember this game is over ten years old back in those days of gaming this was actually pretty good graphic wise for this style of game. Now for the game-play! For your first play-through you'll have to play as one of the three ruling families of Rome, and help build up the roman empire, you'll be able to do this by building up your cities and of course waging war with rival factions for more territory to rule over! The units are quite complex don't underestimate your opponents or you might end up regretting it! You'll be able to call upon war-dogs, war-pigs(incendiary piggies), Elephants, assassins, Gladiators, and much, much more.… Expand
  19. Gurdur
    Aug 18, 2015
    10
    In my opinion not only the best Total War game, but the best strategy game to date. Probably the most addictive game I have ever played and definitely the one that has kept me in front of my computer screen for the most hours. Not only is it fun to play, but you also learn much about the antiquity period, which is a bonus if you're interested in history like me. I still pick it upIn my opinion not only the best Total War game, but the best strategy game to date. Probably the most addictive game I have ever played and definitely the one that has kept me in front of my computer screen for the most hours. Not only is it fun to play, but you also learn much about the antiquity period, which is a bonus if you're interested in history like me. I still pick it up sometimes and get sunk into Europe 270 BC.… Expand
  20. be7yourself
    Sep 24, 2015
    10
    One of best games every for me. Hundreds of hours playing this game and it still doesn't get bored. There are some mods which make game even more exciting like DarthMod. Awesome game!!
  21. caligula_king
    Oct 3, 2015
    10
    Rome Total War salió en 2004 hace 9 años y decir que todavía después de esos 9 años lo tengo reciente en mi historial , Y a un sigo jugando y viciandome como si fuese un videjuego recién salido del horno , así llevo estos 9 años , instalado en mi ordenador desde el día en que salió . Simplemente OBRA MAESTRA DE LA ESTATEGIA . ! LARGA VIDA ROME TOTAL WAR !
  22. CheeseSteakJim
    Nov 14, 2015
    10
    This game is timeless. One of the greatest game codes ever created.
    I started playing on release, and am still playing in 2015 onward...
    One of the pioneers of the strategy genre and a true hall of famer. Respect.
  23. xAmazingQx
    Jan 30, 2016
    10
    this game is perfect it may not have best graphics but the strategy of the game play is so realistic
    of all total wars series i still like this and napoleon the most
  24. Likegameman
    Aug 16, 2016
    10
    One of the best strategy of the all time. Rome Total War is mother of major strategy.He give me many pleasant emothions.It had the best graphic of those time.(Sorry of my English, I'm Hungarian)
  25. Zodiac_A
    Dec 13, 2020
    10
    This game is really enormous for that time, even now still playable & it able to bring a fun. You are able to find huge amount of unofficial DLS with tons of improvement & additional content. Some of them are still updated. To my mind it shows how community enjoys this game.
  26. tomflanders
    Mar 31, 2018
    10
    So good, I'm still playing it 14 years later. Everything about it is perfect except 1 detail - when you get so far in to a campaign, your empire becomes unsustainable, no matter what you do, half your territories start rioting and it gets pointless.
  27. prostonikto
    Jul 28, 2018
    10
    This strategy was created by ingenious people who loved their work and invested there in the whole. To make this wonderful game in white light.
  28. azogthedefiler
    Oct 31, 2018
    10
    As a modder (classic age total war, peninsula italica and others) i can testify this game still has the perfect mix even in 2018, magnified with excellent mods which bring it at another level and make your graphical card suffer... My only regret would be the cloned units. Diversity like in Medieval II and it would have been perfection on this earth as far as strategy/tactics is concerned.As a modder (classic age total war, peninsula italica and others) i can testify this game still has the perfect mix even in 2018, magnified with excellent mods which bring it at another level and make your graphical card suffer... My only regret would be the cloned units. Diversity like in Medieval II and it would have been perfection on this earth as far as strategy/tactics is concerned. Read Sun Tzu, you'll need it there. I remember back at the beginning endless battles and endless campaigns that could last for several month on end. Each turn was full of critical decision and priority solving. Of course the AI was not its strong point, in battle or in campaign as factions sometimes betrayed too easily. But all in all it was like taking all elements that made the success of strategy games, empire-building Risk-style, and a real time battle management that had so many variables each battle was different, and i don't even speak of having 500 different units, a 200 regions strong world map, tons of culture specifics, pitch battles, ambushes and sieges, civil wars and natural hazards, plus the terrain, which was (compared to Rome II) much more open, without any comparison, graphic aside. Because if amazing graphics makes your day in a show, it is not enough to have players hooked long-term. but RTW had this in its DNA. in short, RTW still stands tall today. Brillant.… Expand
  29. Graham67722
    Mar 5, 2019
    10
    I played this game for over 5 years and along with starcraft and starcraft 2 it was definitely one of the best strategy games ever.
  30. cableguy3333
    Apr 30, 2019
    10
    The game that made everyone keep paying CA for inferior games that followed. It's now been made to play on windows 10 and so I gave it another shot, after playing this for thousands of hours years ago I have racked up another 70 in just a few weeks. If you like a challenge this is probably the only total war game that can give you one, just select hard and play as Partha. Game is setThe game that made everyone keep paying CA for inferior games that followed. It's now been made to play on windows 10 and so I gave it another shot, after playing this for thousands of hours years ago I have racked up another 70 in just a few weeks. If you like a challenge this is probably the only total war game that can give you one, just select hard and play as Partha. Game is set during the Victorian age, just kidding obviously it's set around the time of the Roman empire, it has plenty of unique units and the map is large but not as big as Rome 2 or small as Warhammer so just right… Expand
  31. Tiago_Voltaire
    Oct 29, 2019
    10
    Minha primeira experiência foi em 2009, mas só pude jogar com um PC decente em 2014. Ótimos gráficos (mesmo com 15 anos), EXCELENTE trilha sonora e muita imersão na Antiguidade. Realmente um jogo que deixou um carinho especial na memória de muitos fãs de História.
  32. Genek13
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    The best TW game ever made :)
    Remember playing this game for hours :)
    Still playable at same level as back then :)
  33. Bloodnes
    Oct 1, 2020
    10
    Шедевр и одна из лучших частей игры, в те года графика поражала, а возможности игры были просто невероятные, наиграно море часов, и не меньше получено удовольствия от прохождения! 10/10
  34. erdogfu96
    Feb 9, 2020
    10
    It was best of the year on strategy category and stayed on that top rank for many years. Gameplay were much better than later games of same company and you can get enjoy from it at 2020. There were fast-paced realistic well-designed gameplay.

    Graphics:9/10
    Sounds: 10/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Fun: 10/10
  35. Zaxaroff
    May 16, 2020
    10
    Rome Total War is perhaps my favorite game. How much time did I spend playing it? I dont know. A lot of. Lots of. Played it after 10 years. It seems that the requirements for games have changed - computers have become more powerful, we are used to more modern graphics - and the pleasure of the game has not diminished, despite the fact that the game has been around for many years. ToRome Total War is perhaps my favorite game. How much time did I spend playing it? I dont know. A lot of. Lots of. Played it after 10 years. It seems that the requirements for games have changed - computers have become more powerful, we are used to more modern graphics - and the pleasure of the game has not diminished, despite the fact that the game has been around for many years. To summarize: great strategy!… Expand
  36. PUMCH
    Jul 2, 2020
    10
    Excelente! Um jogo incrível, foi sem sombra de dúvidas o jogo que investi mais tempo em toda minha vida!
  37. kreml2
    Jul 11, 2022
    10
    Игра моего детства, благодарен разработчикам за такой проект, который получил положительные отзывы и поклонников со всего мира. Игра стала культовой классикой игровой индуcтрии именно благодаря всем механикам, которые есть в игре, а также упорной работе людей отвечающими за музыку и графику.Игра моего детства, благодарен разработчикам за такой проект, который получил положительные отзывы и поклонников со всего мира. Игра стала культовой классикой игровой индуcтрии именно благодаря всем механикам, которые есть в игре, а также упорной работе людей отвечающими за музыку и графику.
  38. rapha92santos
    Sep 5, 2020
    10
    i will have to show this to my kids on day, a masterpiece and personal favorite by far
  39. Nikitosss95
    Feb 23, 2021
    10
    I could never decide which game I liked more - M2TW or RTW; however I am convinced that Rome total war will forever have a special place in my gaming heart! I love the variety of units and the fact that you can play as Greek, Carthage or Gaul nation and conquer Romans!! Super exciting stuff
  40. plusRichman
    May 19, 2021
    10
    This game is a gem. It combines turn based based strategy that let you enjoy macromanagment and conquest without becoming too detailed or tedious and real time battles that represent actual battles without become obsessed about it. I've played others strategy games and even other instalments of the total war series, but Rome: Total war feels the most enjoyable strategy game I've played.
  41. Nightyknight
    May 19, 2021
    10
    By far the best game in the series, arguably the best strategy game of all time. It perfects the feeling of emptiness as you exterminate city after city, and has the true sense of conquest a game since then hasn't perfected. With the hard edges on the map, you know you've reached the limits of Hellenic knowledge. It has an imbalance, sure, but that's what gives it charm. Seeing the BrutiiBy far the best game in the series, arguably the best strategy game of all time. It perfects the feeling of emptiness as you exterminate city after city, and has the true sense of conquest a game since then hasn't perfected. With the hard edges on the map, you know you've reached the limits of Hellenic knowledge. It has an imbalance, sure, but that's what gives it charm. Seeing the Brutii dominate the east, Julii take the northwest… Expand
  42. Joaothekid
    Aug 21, 2022
    10
    One of the games of my childhood and maybe of my gamers life. Just played it again in 2022 and it still fells great. The graphics, the gameplay, the soundtrack, even the voices are just perfect. It's a far too easy game to beat but I would not change a bit to this pile of nostalgia!
  43. VictorHugo1482
    Aug 30, 2022
    10
    The best strategy video game ever; everything is top tier quality (historical battles, **** Julii family, etc).
    Play this incredible masterpiece.
  44. AryanLongboard
    Jan 14, 2023
    10
    One of the first games I recall playing as a kid. Just like Age Of Mythology I played it on Disc, and on the old Gamespy Arcade system, which I'm unsure is even around anymore. I'm glad I acquired this game on Steam as well, before it was besmirched and impugned by the 'remastered' version.
  45. KingOrfeo
    May 27, 2023
    10
    Initially played on disc for Gamespy Arcade, then inevitably went and purchased it on Steam around a decade later. I love this game, in fact I'd go to the extent to say that this game, alongside the era of games in the early 2000's, late 90's, is the greatest of all time.
    We have Age of Mythology, Empires, Rome Total War and many others, immensely better than the drivel that exists today,    Initially played on disc for Gamespy Arcade, then inevitably went and purchased it on Steam around a decade later. I love this game, in fact I'd go to the extent to say that this game, alongside the era of games in the early 2000's, late 90's, is the greatest of all time.
    We have Age of Mythology, Empires, Rome Total War and many others, immensely better than the drivel that exists today, ill tell you that much.    … Expand
  46. RefinedInsights
    Aug 11, 2023
    10
    Quite possibly the greatest strategy game of all time. It revolutionized the RTS genre, painted a picture of Ancient Rome that was unseen in the gaming world, and had an impressive and memorable soundtrack to match.
  47. Keron_Heruman
    Aug 25, 2023
    10
    Wow! Very good grand strategy game, one of the best of always... The approach, with three different Rome factions is a brilliant idea
  48. KerwinR.
    May 4, 2005
    9
    One of the best games ever. I would have given it a 9 or 10, but the Activision & Creative Assembly deal of only having 2 patches brings the rating down a tad bit. Overall, awesome game. Gameplay, great campaign and battle mode. In the Campaign, you get to conquer and build your cities, set up trade and alliances with other factions, hire mercenaries, create forts, watch towers. In the One of the best games ever. I would have given it a 9 or 10, but the Activision & Creative Assembly deal of only having 2 patches brings the rating down a tad bit. Overall, awesome game. Gameplay, great campaign and battle mode. In the Campaign, you get to conquer and build your cities, set up trade and alliances with other factions, hire mercenaries, create forts, watch towers. In the battle mode, you command thousands of soldiers and it becomes a very tactical game. Graphics: The scene of watching thousands of your men march across a dusty field. Cavalry charging, etc. Need I say more? Playability: You have dozens of factions to play. The game has a long and short campaign. Takes a while. The starting factions are the romans, then you can play other factions like the barbarians and the Greeks, eastern factions and north african factions. Each of these regional factions have their own style of units and way of fighting. Multiplayer: Very fun especially with a friend. You can team up against another group of players. Sound: One of the best music I've heard in a game. Ambience, battle sounds, the marching, etc. You feel like you're really in the thick of the battle.… Expand
  49. SeanF.
    Sep 30, 2004
    9
    Well, I play this game on my knees with a crown of ivory around my head and a white bedsheet - I yell, "I am Caesar, I came, I saw, I kicked patootie" and then laugh madly. It's just that good. An amazing game. Plus, I like the feel of the bedsheet.
  50. AugustoE.
    Jan 5, 2006
    9
    It's a 9.5. The game is almost perfect.
  51. Neskire
    Apr 24, 2007
    9
    Don't believe all those negative comments! There is no "hype". This is genuinely one of the best games with a mix of strategy and action ever to be created. I have played computer games since 1981 and must say that this is one of the most immersive games. The music is excellent. Download a demo and try it for yourself. Yes, not every game will appeal to everyone. But do not prejudge Don't believe all those negative comments! There is no "hype". This is genuinely one of the best games with a mix of strategy and action ever to be created. I have played computer games since 1981 and must say that this is one of the most immersive games. The music is excellent. Download a demo and try it for yourself. Yes, not every game will appeal to everyone. But do not prejudge it based on a handful of negative reviews.… Expand
  52. LokiH.
    May 26, 2006
    9
    The best game ever.
  53. axisjustice
    May 31, 2009
    9
    Wow! i been a huge total war fan since the start. i love how not only this game is fun but the historical value you get when you play it. the battles are realistic and massive :). the hours you spend on 1 campaign will keep you very busy. my only complaint is trade is underrated in the game in my opinion a definite buy for all strategy fans.
  54. DanM.
    Dec 14, 2004
    9
    Anyone who gives this title a 6 or less is a morovian. Either you have no taste or sh...y machine that cant handle the game.
  55. Zeno
    Oct 31, 2010
    9
    The breakthrough in RTS-gaming being the first that offers: Smooth graphics, solid gameplay and fitting music. By now the price should be around 10 bucks for the gold edition. If you are a fan of RTS games, like managing and conquering an empire, give this game a try. It's well worth your time.

    Must-have
  56. Trotzky
    Nov 28, 2010
    9
    This review is my opinion, and you might not agree with me.
    if you do not enjoy this game then too bad for you, because the joy i have gotten out of this game is not something you would want to miss, but i am sure there are other games out there for you.
    Rome: Total War has the city managing of Civilization and real time battles with thousands of soldiers. if you enjoy slow paced turn    This review is my opinion, and you might not agree with me.
    if you do not enjoy this game then too bad for you, because the joy i have gotten out of this game is not something you would want to miss, but i am sure there are other games out there for you.

    Rome: Total War has the city managing of Civilization and real time battles with thousands of soldiers.
    if you enjoy slow paced turn based strategy games, but also enjoy fast paced battles where you command thousands of troops like the roman legionaries, greek Hoplites, carthagian war elephants or hordes of barbarian warriors this is the game for you, if not then you shouldn't get this game.    … Expand
  57. trebert
    Dec 24, 2010
    9
    This is one of the greatest games I have played. It is over hyped, and it is dated. The graphics which were once amazing are now outdated the concepts that the game heralded to are outdated. At the time this game was easily a 10. If you cant get over the graphics not being modern of the animations then i would not rate this game as highly. However as someone who loves strategy and historyThis is one of the greatest games I have played. It is over hyped, and it is dated. The graphics which were once amazing are now outdated the concepts that the game heralded to are outdated. At the time this game was easily a 10. If you cant get over the graphics not being modern of the animations then i would not rate this game as highly. However as someone who loves strategy and history I absolutely can. The greatness Rome has over the other total war games is the sheer diversity of units, and regions that bring a such a meaningful change to game play. Fighting the Gauls will feel completely different to fighting Egyptians ect. There is incredible depth and you can choose to skip everything, you can skip managing your cities fighting your battles. You can deny yourself what makes this a great game as other reviewers have. Though you would only be doing yourself a disservice. A typical campaign epic campaign can run well over 20 hours before you are even halfway through. I would easily recommend this to anyone who enjoys history or for that mater grand strategy games.… Expand
  58. Generalizor
    Nov 26, 2011
    9
    As close to strategic masterpiece as it goes. Fantasic feeling and gameplay. Though there are som mayor bugs ruining some of the experience. And the bribing system isn't perfect. But a must have for the real strategy fan.
  59. LegitScammer
    Dec 29, 2011
    9
    An awesome game, well deserving of all critical acclaim. Still a joy to play years after it's initial release! It's easy to get past the now lacklustre graphics when the gameplay is as deep as it is.
  60. Pidinski
    May 15, 2012
    9
    This is such an amazing game! I have always been obsessed with strategy games and Rome: Total War is my favorite. After reading a couple of the mixed and negative reviews I felt compelled to write my own review stating why this game is awesome! I understand the people complaining about the mutliplayer, it isn't very good. The game wasn't created for multiplayer, it was created for singleThis is such an amazing game! I have always been obsessed with strategy games and Rome: Total War is my favorite. After reading a couple of the mixed and negative reviews I felt compelled to write my own review stating why this game is awesome! I understand the people complaining about the mutliplayer, it isn't very good. The game wasn't created for multiplayer, it was created for single player campaign. Enough said about multiplayer. Gameplay is easy and self explanatory. Take over the world. If you happen to be interested in the finer points of strategy you can manage everything in every city. If you just want to fight the battles you can set the computer to do everything while you fight. If you don't want it like that, don't be stupid and play how you want to play. Its simple and quite easy if you just use your brain. The campaign is can be changed in many ways to fit your style of gameplay, unless you want nothing to do with strategy games, which should be the only reason people don't like this game. I don't know why you even played this game then. If you were looking for a good strategy game with good gameplay, you got exactly that. Rome: Total War is almost eight years old which should cut it just enough slack for its graphics. Compared to other games of 2004, it had pretty solid graphics. If you're wanting to see the general's scars on his face, you should play an RPG. Zooming in on the battles lets you see the fighting up close. Sure some of the hit boxes are off, but it's still decent. The best part is when there is explosions! Great job of having the infantry flying through the air. Some negative reviews said that the game is repetitive and the exact same when you play it through. I have beaten the campaign well over 20 times and I have never experienced the same thing. The replay value of this game is amazing! I always have to try to think of a new strategy. Again the only semi bad thing is the lack of online play. I didn't buy this game to play online, I bought this game to conquer the world.… Expand
  61. kane148
    Aug 1, 2012
    9
    Definitely one of the best turn-based strategy games I've ever played. I first played it as a freshman in college, and now years later it's still a solid game. While the graphics are no longer impressive and many of the subsequent Total War games have improved on many of the features, Rome remains an enjoyable game with much replay value. While the AI is not particularly good, it usuallyDefinitely one of the best turn-based strategy games I've ever played. I first played it as a freshman in college, and now years later it's still a solid game. While the graphics are no longer impressive and many of the subsequent Total War games have improved on many of the features, Rome remains an enjoyable game with much replay value. While the AI is not particularly good, it usually provides a sufficient challenge, and even after having played the campaign through a half dozen times, the campaign map AI still does things I've not seen before.… Expand
  62. CrusherTM
    Dec 23, 2012
    9
    A very good strategy, which contains many new and matched solutions. Score on Metacritic is most suitable. I play more than 9 will leave not because there were a lot of minor errors, which, however, do not want to replace.
  63. reviewobsession
    Jan 30, 2015
    9
    Scream with thousands of brave gallic warriors against inglorious Romans before the bloody battle begins. Give phalanx formation order to noble greek soldiers to build a fearsome and deadly pike wall. Deploy Roman legionnaires as one line and then watch how the war machine works. Crush the heart of the enemies with invincible war elephants of mighty Carthage. Lead the merciless children ofScream with thousands of brave gallic warriors against inglorious Romans before the bloody battle begins. Give phalanx formation order to noble greek soldiers to build a fearsome and deadly pike wall. Deploy Roman legionnaires as one line and then watch how the war machine works. Crush the heart of the enemies with invincible war elephants of mighty Carthage. Lead the merciless children of Nile who walk through death without hesitation for their godlike Pharaoh...

    With nearly perfect campaign and battle gamplay design, I think Rome Total War is the best Total War game in the series and even one of the best strategy game in game industry. Its innovative high quality mechanics and hundreds of small juicy details captured players hearts and created thousands of fans for CA. After eleven years, I hope Creative Assembly and especially SEGA learn a lesson from their poor Warscape products (ETW, NTW, STW2, FOTS, RTW2) and develop high quality games as they did once.    … Expand
  64. Alchemik
    Apr 25, 2013
    9
    A great game with awesome climate, also even today quite appealing to the eye. The strategic options are wide and enjoyable and battle simulation, when it came out, was absolutely amazing.

    The amount of factions and huge differences in troops they can field make it a little unbalanced (especially when it comes to late-period roman troops, obviously [and somewhat realistically]    A great game with awesome climate, also even today quite appealing to the eye. The strategic options are wide and enjoyable and battle simulation, when it came out, was absolutely amazing.

    The amount of factions and huge differences in troops they can field make it a little unbalanced (especially when it comes to late-period roman troops, obviously [and somewhat realistically] overpowered), but makes the whole thing even more interesting and make you use different strategies, when using different troops or facing different foes.

    The main downside is the amount of micromanaging that will bore less patient players, especially when combined with slow troop training and pretty slow army movement. If you don't mind that, the game can give you hundreds of hours of enjoyable gameplay.    … Expand
  65. Cloud7
    Oct 6, 2013
    9
    Wow, after 9 years this is still the best Total War game. Rome 2 was just....I don't want to start with that again. In short Rome 2 was a rushed failure. This game is far more in depth and filled with features. If you love the Roman era like me then you will feel totally immersed as I was for each campaign.
  66. Faced
    Jan 6, 2014
    9
    Super fun strategy game. Hard to pick up as a beginner, but really easy and fun once you get the hang of it. Some pretty unbalanced factions as well, but just adds to the difficulty. Also, Better than the second one... unfortunately.
  67. Ydun79
    Feb 11, 2019
    9
    An awesome game when it came out. Maybe not so revolutionary anymore these days but you can find hundreds of mods that are absolutely awesome and historically interesting.
  68. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    Second best total war ever, and great for its time (unlike current total wars that haven't really evolved)
  69. BeanBuster
    Mar 28, 2017
    9
    Absolutely fantastic. By far my favorite out of the series. The only thing holding it back from a 10 is the horrible path finding, especially during city battles. Definitely in my top games of all time list.
  70. compot8
    Oct 18, 2016
    9
    I still come back to this game every now and then. It's the best game of the series alongside with Medieval II. An absolute beauty and the modding community is amazing, also great expansions.
  71. hiltong55
    Mar 22, 2017
    9
    This game was my first entry into the turn based strategy genre and what an impression it made. Rome is what I compare all games in this genre to and sadly nothing up till now nothing has really measured up to its greatness in my humble opinion. The thing that I feel puts this game over the top is its combat system which unlike other games I have played is very straight forward and easy toThis game was my first entry into the turn based strategy genre and what an impression it made. Rome is what I compare all games in this genre to and sadly nothing up till now nothing has really measured up to its greatness in my humble opinion. The thing that I feel puts this game over the top is its combat system which unlike other games I have played is very straight forward and easy to master after a short period of time. Most units act as I expect they should and the amount of different units you can command keep each battle refreshing which invites you to go through several campaigns so you can experience the capabilities of each faction. The music does get a bit repetitive at times but is still good in short burst and fits the theme fairly well. Graphics are good but not prestige for the era but honestly who cares when everything else works so well. The political system is a bit bland but functional and it wasn't until I pumped up the difficultly level that I received a real challenge but those can be forgiven when the mechanics and combat are this good.

    This is one of my favorite games of all time and completely ruined this genre for me in a good way if that makes any sense. A must own for any fan of the genre and is just one of those games that can stand the test of time. This games will always have a spot on my hard drive.    … Expand
  72. complivit27
    Apr 21, 2022
    9
    Моя первая стратегия в данном жанре, в то время это была топовая игра, в которой я провел не одну сотню часов. Снял 1 балл за ИИ, он глуп
  73. Axilley
    Jul 22, 2021
    9
    very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good very good
  74. Sandro86
    May 17, 2019
    9
    Magnificent game. Still remember it playing it with 3 Roman families. Great time turned strategic part and real time battles.
  75. Tilt1k
    Feb 5, 2019
    9
    I don´t remember it that much. Played it as a kiddo i remember it to be awesome. Flammable pigs ftw. My first total war experince and with Roman legion i recommend it.
  76. Shimmeywill
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    A wonderful experience with a slue of units, factions and simplistic but entertaining strategies.
  77. Bruhitsme
    Jul 21, 2020
    9
    There's something stranegly satisfying about watching dumbass enemies rushing into a phalanx and instantly dying.
  78. Gorbunov2004
    Mar 25, 2021
    9
    Это стратегия моего детства и мне она очень нравится. Раньше в битвах я всегда включал автоматический режим и почти всегда проигрывал и меня это расстраивало. Но однажды я решил сам попробовать сразиться с армией противника и я понял что если сражаешься сам то потери в несколько раз меньше. Как по мне самые сильные фракции это даже не Рим это те фракции у которых есть конные стрелки ониЭто стратегия моего детства и мне она очень нравится. Раньше в битвах я всегда включал автоматический режим и почти всегда проигрывал и меня это расстраивало. Но однажды я решил сам попробовать сразиться с армией противника и я понял что если сражаешься сам то потери в несколько раз меньше. Как по мне самые сильные фракции это даже не Рим это те фракции у которых есть конные стрелки они просто какая-то имба. Этих стрелков просто ничто не берёт если у тебя много стрелков то они они разнесут отряд численность где-то 2000 юнитов. Самый главный их недостаток что у них очень быстро кончаются стрелы.
    Самая главная проблема этой игры то что в ней очень мало дипломатии.    … Expand
  79. elefsar
    Apr 22, 2021
    9
    Loved and played hours in its time, a new way of strategy games. Still missing it.
  80. Goshan220
    Jul 31, 2021
    9
    Классика детства. Стратегия с отличной проработкой и погружением. Восхищала на момент своего выхода масштабом и разнообразностью
  81. johnny__a
    Nov 22, 2021
    9
    This game was way ahead of its time. The mix of turn-based strategy and epic real-time battles is great.
  82. shadeofblack
    Dec 29, 2021
    9
    No matter how old this game is, it will always be one of my favourite games. The graphics, the game mechanisms, and the vast options it gave are more than worth mentioning. It was ahead of its time. I still can't forget the siege of other cities.
  83. dr-kenobi
    Sep 6, 2022
    9
    One of the best products Creative ever produced. For its time it was literally the greatest strategy on the market for years. Magnificent craft indeed.
  84. erfunfazli
    Jul 21, 2023
    9
    One of the best strategic games of all time.
    awesome soundtrack, gameplay and lots of great details in the game make it a masterpiece.
    It's best Total War game according to its release time.
  85. JonathanM.
    Sep 30, 2007
    8
    Rome: Total Realism FTW! Yeah, this game is very good. The graphics are decent and are downgraded just enough for the larger battles to be playable. As this was my first TW game, I was blown away by finally being permitted to wage wars and fight battles on a massive scale. I do wish it would be easier to manage your forces without having to pause every 30 seconds, but that didn't Rome: Total Realism FTW! Yeah, this game is very good. The graphics are decent and are downgraded just enough for the larger battles to be playable. As this was my first TW game, I was blown away by finally being permitted to wage wars and fight battles on a massive scale. I do wish it would be easier to manage your forces without having to pause every 30 seconds, but that didn't matter that much to me, because this game has potential. Specifically, I reference the great work various modders put into one of the greatest mods I have ever seen: Rome: Total Realism. It's a lot like it sounds: dedicated to historical accuracy and, as a side effect, more diversity of gameplay. What I disliked most about the original game is that you can only play one of three identical Roman empires that never existed in the way that the game presents them. Historical accuracy aside, I became very bored, very quickly with the basic campaign. There just wasn't enough variety. I wanted to play Carthage. I wanted to play the Gauls. Total Realism cracked this game wide open for me. No, I never tried the expansion, because I never needed to. When you take each empire and kingdom in this game and you pay each one personal, custom attention and you set them in motion with this game's engine and its concepts and its scope, you get an amazing experience and a strategy game that rubs shoulders with Civ 4. (What's funny is that the two go well together. One gives you depth in conquest and the other gives you depth in nation management, especially civically.) Yeah, this and Medieval 2 TW both need just a little modding/upgrading to realize their true glory, and, when they do, they're awesome. RTW alone is an 8/10. RTW with Total Realism is a 10/10.… Expand
  86. D.Owen
    Oct 3, 2004
    8
    Well, I look a bit like a war elephant... so when playing I raise my arm to my nose and go "Huuuaaahhhh" and then shake my belly. The game is so incredible it makes me want to do things like that.... The graphics, the gameplay, the strategy.... I keep a bust of Caesar on my desk while playing and french kiss it after every victory - the game is amazing.
  87. Tgropen
    Apr 28, 2005
    8
    The mouse pad. What is up with that? The game is superb in virtually every aspect but the most basic function. Overall, it is a great improvement over M Total War. It has provided hours of fun entertainment, but they've got to fix that bug.
  88. CohortMastersd
    Nov 25, 2005
    8
    there are 2 tipes of critics, the tipe that score it like it deserves and the ones that try to make the overall score as they want it and score only 0 or 10 ,i m of the first kind, and if i were of the second kind i would give it a "10". the game is realistic, has great graphics and is very fun online, but i have to admit that the AI is pretty damn stupid and has stupid bugs. another there are 2 tipes of critics, the tipe that score it like it deserves and the ones that try to make the overall score as they want it and score only 0 or 10 ,i m of the first kind, and if i were of the second kind i would give it a "10". the game is realistic, has great graphics and is very fun online, but i have to admit that the AI is pretty damn stupid and has stupid bugs. another annoying thing about it is that the units dont always do exactly what u want them tp, but i guess it's a part of making the game realistic. for conclusion, the game itself gets boring within a week or two, but if u play online u can go on for monthes and not get tired of it, therefor i definitely recommend this game. oh and btw, if u have problems with the mouse sensitivity, change it in control panel=>mouse… Expand
  89. DantheMan
    Mar 18, 2011
    8
    Rome:TW is one of those irritating games that does everything well and nothing excellent. The strength of this game is in the variety of game play you can do. If you want, you can set everything to auto and do nothing but move ships with their armies around and have an entire game take ten hours. On the other hand, you can get really deep into this game and have 100+ hour games. It's upRome:TW is one of those irritating games that does everything well and nothing excellent. The strength of this game is in the variety of game play you can do. If you want, you can set everything to auto and do nothing but move ships with their armies around and have an entire game take ten hours. On the other hand, you can get really deep into this game and have 100+ hour games. It's up to you how deep you want to go.

    The problem is that the deeper you get into the game the more you understand just how bad the UI really is. The interface for Diplomacy is buried under five mouse clicks. Ugh. On the other hand, if you set it to auto then you realize just how bad the AI is. I once lost a battle where the computer's 50 troops wiped out my 800 troops. Ugh. Then there is the whole modding community. RTR is an excellent mod. But in my opinion it creates as many problems as it solves. It might be more realistic but I don't think it's all that much fun. In the final analysis it's the sheer variety and flexibility that make this game raise above other strategy games. But it's not perfect. It's certainly worth the $10 you will pay today.    … Expand
  90. LordOFlibertY
    Jul 7, 2011
    8
    Ahh.. Rome Total War...
    When modern PC gamers hear the word 'strategy' they will instantly think of the Total War series (Rome in particular) and StarCraft. Although Shogun: Total War was the first game of the series, I really like having Rome as the 'defining' point of the series of genre. Rome: Total War allows you to play as a mighty Roman general on his conquest of dominance and    Ahh.. Rome Total War...
    When modern PC gamers hear the word 'strategy' they will instantly think of the Total War series (Rome in particular) and StarCraft. Although Shogun: Total War was the first game of the series, I really like having Rome as the 'defining' point of the series of genre. Rome: Total War allows you to play as a mighty Roman general on his conquest of dominance and power. Seeing thousands of soldiers clash into each other is just epic and at the same time careful tactics and strategies must be used to win. One of the problems I had with this game is the 'aggro' some of you 'allies' have. I remember becoming the powerhouse of the Roman Empire but all of the sudden every single general begins to oppose me as they realize I am a threat. This game be VERY annoying at times. Although I can see a couple complaints with a few people who dislike the slow pacing of the game. Overall I give this game a 8/10.
    +Defined the 'Total War' strategy.
    +Awesome spectacules
    -Slow pace
    -Ally Aggro    … Expand
  91. Ztride
    Jan 21, 2012
    8
    A great game, along with Shogun 2 the best of the Total War series. What's unique about this game compared with the rest of the series is that it is actually quite balanced.
  92. Claytality
    Apr 14, 2018
    8
    Great strategy game. The turn-based campaign map with RTS battles makes for a unique and enjoyable experience. The history is accurate, though you essentially rewrite it as you play. The variety of factions and units makes for some great fun and replayability.

    One interesting aspect of the game is that troops don't always win against the units they have a bonus against. For example,    Great strategy game. The turn-based campaign map with RTS battles makes for a unique and enjoyable experience. The history is accurate, though you essentially rewrite it as you play. The variety of factions and units makes for some great fun and replayability.

    One interesting aspect of the game is that troops don't always win against the units they have a bonus against. For example, pike infantry have a bonus against cavalry. However, if cavalry are maneuvered in an effective manner they can attack the pikes from the side or rear, rendering their deadly points useless. The downside of this is that it is so effective that it becomes a staple strategy for nearly every battle, limiting your strategic choices.

    Sometimes my groups of cavalry would simply attack whatever unit was nearest to them, despite commanding them to attack only archers. This was annoying but fixable by individually ordering them. Auto-resolve is a way to skip the RTS battles and stay on the campaign map, but it is very unbalanced and often makes you lose battles you would normally win easily.

    Cost $3.24, played 88 hours. Great game, highly recommended.    … Expand
  93. SteppeDragon
    Jun 6, 2013
    8
    I think that, aside from campaign and a few other things, medieval 1 is better (better atmosphere, better music, better battles), BUT, if modded properly, it's fun as hell
  94. Pannon
    Jan 17, 2014
    8
    Just replayed it again (Jan 2014). The game is head and shoulder above R2:Total War. While it's not perfect and it has its own bugs, this game may not have all the graphical bells and whistles of its predecessor, it has something much more important: gameplay.
  95. Shorkan1000
    Dec 22, 2013
    8
    Rome: Total War was the first Total war game I ever played, I have played it for at least 6 years now and although it has some flaws, it is definitely worth playing. The graphics were really good back in the day (of course if you compare it to Shogun 2, it looks terrible, but you have to look at it, as if you would have 7 years ago. After all, it was released in 2005) and this game made meRome: Total War was the first Total war game I ever played, I have played it for at least 6 years now and although it has some flaws, it is definitely worth playing. The graphics were really good back in the day (of course if you compare it to Shogun 2, it looks terrible, but you have to look at it, as if you would have 7 years ago. After all, it was released in 2005) and this game made me play every next total war game except for Napoleon. The campaign map was large, and a large variety of units existed. Cities didn't always display on the right location, like Segesta, which was a Sicilian city, but was put by the developers at the spot of Genua. The battles were difficult, but if you were at least a little bit of a tactician, you could beat the AI. The city viewing is another great feature, which I missed in every next total war game. I hope they will add it to new games at some point. The most memorable however, were the huge amount of soldiers you can put on the screen. The largest amount I have ever fielded was around the 10.000, but I have seen videos of more.
    Despite all the good things, some negative things also exist. The cultural variation is not always accurate, as is the case with the "Germans" and the "Britons". They simply didn't exist as a single faction back then. The assault of a siege sometimes really sucked, since sometimes the units simply didn't want to climb the siege tower. The AI was really weak at using phalanxes.
    It has to be mentioned however, that the greatest asset of Rome Total war was the large amount of mods that have been released to address aforementioned problems. The ones I played were Europa Barbarorum and Amazon: Total War, the former being a more historically accurate mod than the latter, which introduced female warfare. All in all, a fantastic game, which redifined the essence of a strategy game, and despite some minor issues made a major impact on the world of gamers.    … Expand
  96. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    8
    Sin duda uno de los híbrido de estrategia a tiempo real y por turnos mejor realizados. La macrogestión de las posesiones unido a la microgestión de las batallas le convierten en un juego muy completo que puedes rejugar y rejugar.
  97. BenHazelden
    Oct 13, 2014
    8
    Rome Total War blows away the prequels of the franchise with all round better everything. Battles are captivating and more interactive than ever before, now is your chance to truly conquer the world with brutality.
    8/10 - Ben Hazelden
  98. JustSomeGamer
    Jun 30, 2016
    8
    Great strategy game for its time. It is still a good game to this day, but it has clearly aged. The management of your cities for example can be incredibly painful when you have a lot of cities.
  99. YTpetergamer965
    Feb 11, 2023
    8
    Still fun to play in 2022, but performance is still a big issue as it is poorly optimised.
  100. RadiationGamer
    Feb 26, 2023
    8
    This game was my first Total War. Although it was a game that I was very impressed with at the time, now it is a game that I not impressed as much as before. If we look at the period of its release, it is a revolutionary game for strategy games. Just like other Total War series, it drew me in with its Combat system and music. However, there are some parts that I don't like. For example,This game was my first Total War. Although it was a game that I was very impressed with at the time, now it is a game that I not impressed as much as before. If we look at the period of its release, it is a revolutionary game for strategy games. Just like other Total War series, it drew me in with its Combat system and music. However, there are some parts that I don't like. For example, the camera only moves with your army. Which is way too restrictive for a game like this. It's also a little frustrating that you can't replenish your troops. But if we take all the gameplay, diplomacys and battles as a basis, we can say that it is a good game. Probably one of the most loved games in the Total War series and me too. This is the highest rating I can give this game. 8… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

5
#5 Best PC Game of 2004
7
#7 Most Discussed PC Game of 2004
5
#5 Most Shared PC Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 58 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 58 out of 58
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 58
  3. Negative: 0 out of 58
  1. Total Video Games
    90
    An epic game in terms of both visual execution and longevity...Campaigns can last for several hundred turns, so prepare for the long haul.
    Read full review
  2. Gaming Age
    91
    Many games are excellent world-builders, and many are deep real time strategy war games. Rome: Total War sets out to be both and pulls it off wonderfully.
    Read full review
  3. games(TM)
    90
    The tactical battles are better than ever thanks to an improved engine and significantly smarter enemy AI. You can now take up to 400 units into battle, leading to some impressive large-scale scraps.
See all critic reviews »