Against Rome - PC

Because the real-time strategy game is such a specific genre, it can be difficult for developers to make one game different from the next. However, the easiest and perhaps most practical way around problem is to change the theme of the game. We've had RTS ventures based on historic wars and we've had fictional offerings set both in the distant future and distant past. On this occasion we look at JoWood's Against Rome.

This particular outing is set in early Europe between the years 200 and 450AD in a time when the Romans had nothing better to do than invade other countries in a fight for dominance. But since this title is called Against Rome, players will not be surprised to learn that they are charged with bringing down the Roman Empire as they control a primitive race in one of the few areas of Europe not yet under Rome's control.

And it's this primitive race that makes the game interesting and different from most other RTS games available. Here, you'll assume control of a barbarian tribe, whose best talents are to partake in skirmishes and raids. You are a group of thugs and thieves, and you must use these abilities to steal food and tools from other tribes in order to survive and strengthen your position in the world of Barbaricum. Ultimately, your goal is raise an army strong enough to bring down the Roman Empire once and for all by partaking in tactical battles. Defeat the Romans and you've beaten the game.

And that's really all there is to it. It is your run-of-the-mill RTS game as far as gameplay is concerned, but it's theme is intriguing enough to attract to both new players and RTS veterans alike. more