Old World: PC Game Review

Old World is a grand strategy game developed by Mohawk Games and published by Hooded Horse. Released on July 1, 2021, it offers a unique blend of traditional 4X gameplay with a focus on dynasty and historical events. Players take on the role of a ruler in the ancient world, aiming to build a lasting legacy through strategic decision-making, warfare, and diplomacy.

The game stands out with its innovative approach to turn-based strategy, combining elements from both Civilization and Crusader Kings series. The inclusion of character-driven mechanics, where family members and court officials play significant roles, adds depth and complexity to the gameplay. The title received positive feedback for its engaging mechanics and historical depth, making it a notable entry in the strategy game genre.

History of the Game World

Old World is set in the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean and Near East, encompassing iconic empires such as the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Egyptians. The game’s historical context is rich and detailed, reflecting the intricate politics, warfare, and culture of these ancient societies. Mohawk Games has meticulously recreated the historical setting, allowing players to immerse themselves in the complexities and grandeur of ancient history.

The game world is dynamic and evolving, influenced by the actions and decisions of the player. Each turn represents a year in the game, and the historical narrative unfolds through events, quests, and the actions of characters. This attention to historical authenticity and depth ensures that Old World offers an educational and engaging experience for history enthusiasts and strategy gamers alike.

Plot

The plot of Old World revolves around the player’s chosen dynasty and its rise to power. Starting as the head of a ruling family, players must navigate through political intrigue, military conflicts, and diplomatic relations to establish a lasting legacy. The narrative is driven by the interactions between characters, including family members, generals, and advisors, each with their own ambitions and traits. The game’s story is not linear but evolves based on the player’s decisions, offering a unique and personalized experience in every playthrough.

How to Play and Cool Game Mechanics

Old World’s gameplay is divided into several key mechanics that set it apart from other strategy games. Firstly, the game emphasizes character-driven gameplay. Each family member and court official has distinct traits, abilities, and ambitions, affecting the kingdom’s stability and success. Managing these relationships is crucial for maintaining power and influence.

The order system is another innovative feature. Players are limited by the number of orders they can issue each turn, making strategic planning essential. This mechanic adds a layer of depth, as players must prioritize actions such as moving units, constructing buildings, or initiating diplomatic talks.

Technological advancement in Old World is handled through a tech tree, reminiscent of other 4X games. However, it incorporates a card-based system where players draw from a deck of available technologies, adding an element of unpredictability and strategy.

Additionally, the game includes a robust event system. Random events based on historical and character-specific contexts keep the gameplay fresh and unpredictable. These events can have significant impacts, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Technical Requirements

Old World is designed to run smoothly on a wide range of systems, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. The minimum system requirements include a Windows 7 64-bit operating system, an Intel i3 processor, 4 GB of RAM, and an Intel HD 4000 integrated graphics or equivalent. These requirements ensure that even players with older systems can enjoy the game.

For optimal performance, the recommended system specifications are a Windows 10 64-bit operating system, an Intel i5 or AMD equivalent processor, 8 GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GTX 770 or AMD equivalent graphics card. These specifications allow the game to run at higher settings, providing a richer visual experience and smoother gameplay.

Old World also supports modding, allowing players to customize and enhance their gaming experience. The game’s modding tools are user-friendly, encouraging the creation of new content and extending the game’s replayability.

How the Game was Received by Players

Upon its release, Old World received generally favorable reviews from both critics and players. The game was praised for its innovative mechanics, historical accuracy, and depth of gameplay. Reviewers highlighted the character-driven elements and the strategic complexity as standout features that set Old World apart from other games in the genre.

Players appreciated the game’s attention to detail and the variety of strategic options available. The dynamic event system and the focus on dynasty management were particularly well-received, adding layers of immersion and replayability. Some players noted the initial learning curve but found the game rewarding once they mastered its mechanics.

Overall, Old World has carved out a niche within the strategy gaming community, appealing to fans of historical games and grand strategy alike. Its positive reception is a testament to its quality and the innovative approach taken by Mohawk Games.