Hello followers! Today, we’re exploring the fascinating world of Anno 117: Pax Romana, a game that blends stunning visuals with intricate gameplay. Let’s dive into what makes this title special and what you can expect.

First off, Anno 117 is a visual feast. The game vividly recreates the Roman Empire’s golden age, with beautiful wheat fields, colorful citizens, and epic soundtrack that transports you straight into ancient Rome. It’s an escapist fantasy that emphasizes aesthetics over gritty realism, making it a joy to build and explore.

The game combines city-building with supply chain logistics. You place structures, manage goods, and strategize to develop thriving settlements across islands connected by trade routes. Resources are often island-specific, adding a layer of complexity in how you optimize your empire’s expansion and resource flow.

Naval combat exists but is not the main feature, though it plays a supporting role. Engaging with other leaders through diplomacy or conflict is another key aspect, adding depth to interactions on the map. Despite its depth, the game maintains a relaxing pace once players understand the mechanics.

In terms of new features, Anno 117 introduces a religion system, a more detailed research tree, and ground-based military units alongside the traditional naval forces. Players can choose a Roman deity, such as Ceres or Poseidon, gaining bonuses aligned with their preferences. Roads can now be placed diagonally, offering more design freedom, though the grid remains the most efficient layout.

However, onboarding new players remains a challenge. The tutorial needs improvement to reduce confusion, as some early instructions skip steps, and key systems are left unexplained. Still, the clean and intuitive user interface helps mitigate some of these issues, providing overlays and indicators to guide decision-making.

The game’s aesthetic and mechanics cater to both perfectionists and casual builders, allowing for deep optimization or creative expression. Although it doesn’t radically reinvent the franchise, Anno 117 builds firmly on its predecessor’s strengths, promising more to come post-launch with additional content.

Overall, if you’re a fan of city builders and economic sims, this game offers a compelling mix of beauty, strategy, and history. With some refinement in tutorial delivery, it could become a favorite for a broader audience. The game is set to release later this year on multiple platforms, and I can’t wait to get more hands-on experience!