Total War: Thrones Of Britannia In 2023 - Worth It?

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into Total War: Thrones of Britannia in 2023. Is it still worth your time? That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? This title, part of the legendary Total War franchise, takes us way back to the British Isles in 878 AD. We're talking Anglo-Saxons, Vikings, and Gaelic clans duking it out for dominance. So, let’s break down what makes this game tick and whether it holds up today.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Thrones of Britannia tweaked the classic Total War formula. Instead of sprawling across a massive world map, you're hyper-focused on the British Isles. This tighter scope brings a more intimate and detailed campaign experience. You really get to know the lay of the land and the nuances of each faction.

Factions

Each faction in Thrones of Britannia feels unique. You've got the Kingdom of Wessex, fighting to unite England against the Viking threat. Then there's Mercia, caught between the English and the Norse. And don't forget the Viking factions like the Great Viking Army and the Norse Kingdom of Northumbria, each with their own goals and playstyles. The Gaelic Kingdom of Mide offers a different flavor, focusing on Irish dominance. These factions all have unique units, tech trees, and starting positions, giving tons of replayability.

Recruitment and Economy

One of the biggest changes in Thrones of Britannia is the recruitment system. Instead of just spamming units, you now rely on a population system. Each region has a limited pool of manpower, making every soldier count. This forces you to think strategically about your armies and avoid reckless losses. The economy is also more streamlined, with a focus on food production and trade. Maintaining a stable economy is crucial for keeping your armies fed and your people happy. Managing resources effectively can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Tech Tree and Province Management

The tech tree in Thrones of Britannia is more focused than in previous Total War games. Technologies are tied to specific regions, encouraging you to develop your provinces in different ways. Some regions might be better suited for farming, while others are perfect for industry or military production. This adds another layer of depth to province management, making each decision feel meaningful. Upgrading settlements, constructing buildings, and managing public order are all essential for maintaining a thriving kingdom. Neglecting these aspects can lead to rebellions and economic collapse.

Graphics and Sound

Even in 2023, Thrones of Britannia looks pretty good. The unit models are detailed, the environments are lush, and the battle animations are solid. Sure, it's not the cutting edge of graphics anymore, but it's still visually appealing. The sound design is also top-notch, with immersive battle sounds and a stirring soundtrack that captures the atmosphere of the era. Hearing the clash of steel and the war cries of your soldiers really puts you in the thick of the fighting. The sound effects add a lot to the overall experience, making battles feel visceral and intense. Graphically, Total War: Thrones of Britannia may show its age, but the artistic design and attention to detail still make it a visually engaging game.

Campaign and Diplomacy

The campaign map in Thrones of Britannia is a joy to explore. It's packed with historical locations and events, bringing the world of 878 AD to life. The campaign objectives are clear, giving you a sense of direction as you strive to achieve your faction's goals. Diplomacy is also more important in Thrones of Britannia than in some other Total War games. Forming alliances, negotiating trade agreements, and managing your relationships with other factions are all crucial for survival. Betrayals and backstabbing are common, so you always need to be on your guard. Mastering diplomacy can be just as important as winning battles.

Historical Flavor

One of the things that sets Thrones of Britannia apart is its strong historical flavor. The game is filled with historical events, characters, and units, making it feel like a genuine representation of the era. You'll encounter famous figures like Alfred the Great and Ivar the Boneless, and you'll fight battles that shaped the course of history. This attention to detail makes the game a treat for history buffs. Playing through the campaign, you'll learn a lot about the political and military landscape of 9th-century Britain. This historical authenticity adds a layer of depth and immersion that's hard to find in other strategy games.

Is It Worth Playing in 2023?

So, back to the original question: is Total War: Thrones of Britannia worth playing in 2023? The answer is a resounding yes! Despite being a few years old, the game still offers a unique and engaging Total War experience. The focused campaign, the unique factions, and the streamlined mechanics make it a standout title in the franchise.

Pros

  • Unique Setting: The British Isles in 878 AD is a refreshing change from the usual Total War settings.
  • Focused Campaign: The tighter scope allows for a more detailed and intimate experience.
  • Distinct Factions: Each faction feels unique, with its own goals, units, and playstyles.
  • Streamlined Mechanics: The recruitment and economy systems are more streamlined, making the game more accessible.
  • Historical Flavor: The game is packed with historical events, characters, and units.

Cons

  • Smaller Scale: Some players may miss the grand scale of other Total War games.
  • Repetitive Battles: The battles can become repetitive after a while.
  • Limited Unit Variety: Compared to other Total War games, Thrones of Britannia has a smaller unit roster.

Final Verdict

Total War: Thrones of Britannia is a solid strategy game that still holds up well in 2023. Its unique setting, focused campaign, and streamlined mechanics make it a worthwhile addition to any Total War fan's library. While it may not be the most ambitious or groundbreaking title in the series, it offers a compelling and immersive experience that will keep you hooked for hours. So, if you're looking for a historical strategy game with a unique flavor, give Thrones of Britannia a try. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it!

Whether you're a Total War veteran or new to the series, Thrones of Britannia offers a rewarding and challenging experience. The game's historical setting, combined with its engaging gameplay, makes it a standout title in the strategy genre. Give it a shot and see if you can conquer the British Isles! You will not be dissapointed. I hope this helps you guys.