Since I haven't played it, I can't give an accurate rating. However, based on others' reviews, it seems to rate around a 4/5.
Background Info: Empire: Total War is a strategy game based on the premises of 2 or more players taking turns. This makes the game different because usually the two players are playing simultaneously. The turn-based premises is usually only used in war games.
The game is the 5th installment in the Total War series, and was released in North America on March 3, 2009, and the rest of the world the next day. It is based on the early modern period of the 18th century.
When the game was released, players and critics alike gave it high ratings.
Gameplay:As I said before, the gameplay of Total War is based on turn-based strategies. However, other features make the gameplay better.
Options players have in the game include:
- Running everything having to do with their country in Campaign Mode. The goal of this mode is to build a worldwide empire.
- Fighting recreations of famous battles in Battle Mode.
- Using many powers on several continents, including Europe, North Africa, the Americas and the Indies.
- The creation of major nations is featured, including the United States and France.
- A special 3-chapter segment specializing in the American Revolution. Chapter 1 consists of controlling the British in their creation of the settlement at Jamestown. Chapter 2 focuses on the French and Indian War. In Chapter 3, the player controls the Continental Army against the British.
The "Road to Independence", the 3-chapter segment, is also an option for players who want to learn more about the Revolution.
Multiplayer mode involves two players fighting each other in the Battle Mode.
Reviews of the Game: When Total War was released by Sega, critics received it well. The game received scores of 88% on GameRankings and 90% on Metacritic. Critics specifically praised the accuracy of the battles and historical figures, as well as the game's replayability. Kieron Gillen, one reviewer and critic, said due to the large map, he had been able to complete the game without playing everything. Some websites complained that the enemy AI sometimes "fell apart".
Naval COmbat received more criticism than Land Combat. PC Format said that the ""frustrating; genuine naval tactics fast disappear out of the window as [the player] struggles to bring [their] navy’s cannons to bear on the enemy". Gamespot also pointed out that the AI has trouble comtrolling all facets of a naval battle.
However, despite these criticisms, the game was generally received well.