Should I Buy Total War: Rome 2 or Civilization 5?

Total War: Rome 2 and Civilization 5 both have a significant place in the strategy game industry. However, choosing between these two classics can be a daunting task, especially if you are a fan of historical simulations. In this article, we will dive into the nuances of each game, providing insights that will help you make an informed decision.

Introduction to Total War: Rome 2

Total War: Rome 2 was released in 2013, and it has since become a beloved title in the strategy genre. This game has a rich history, with the original Total War: Rome being released in 2004. The series is known for its detailed historical simulation and immersive battles, which is why many players engage in this game to recreate the grandeur of ancient Rome.

Why Total War: Rome 2 Stands Out

Total War: Rome 2 offers a range of features that make it stand out:

Historical Accuracy: Total War games are renowned for their meticulous attention to historical detail. The game's battles, sieges, and campaigns are designed to reflect real-world events and the strategies employed during the period. Deep Gameplay Mechanics: The game's turn-based strategy system allows players to manage resources, recruit and train armies, and navigate complex political landscapes. This depth makes Total War: Rome 2 an engrossing experience for players who enjoy strategy games with intricate mechanics. High Optimization: Total War: Rome 2 is optimized for both high-end and older systems, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Even on an ancient laptop with limited specs, the game delivers smooth gameplay with multiple units and soldiers on the battlefield.

The Drawbacks of Total War: Rome 2

Despite its many strengths, Total War: Rome 2 is not without its flaws:

Unrealistic Battles: While the game excels in historical accuracy, its battles can sometimes feel unrealistic. This is particularly noticeable when combat between naval units and ground units is involved. However, these issues are often mitigated by the game's rich storyline and immersive experience. Resource Management: The game's complex resource management can be overwhelming for players who are new to Total War series. However, once players get the hang of it, the rewards are immense and the game becomes much more enjoyable.

Civilization 5: A Rich but Unrealistic Experience

Civilization 5, released in 2010, is another classic in the strategy game genre. It offers a unique blend of turn-based strategy and real-time city-building. The game allows players to guide their civilization from the Stone Age to the Space Age, making it an excellent choice for those who want a broad historical scope.

Why Civilization 5 Stands Out

Civilization 5 excels in several areas:

Broad Historical Scope: Civilization 5 spans a vast timeline, allowing players to experience the evolution of human civilization. The game's wide range of historical units, technologies, and leaders provides a diverse and engaging experience. Simple Gameplay Mechanics: The game is generally easier to understand than Total War, making it accessible to a broader audience. New players can dive into the game with minimal setup, and the tutorials guide them through the core mechanics. Virtual Reality: Civilization 5's virtual reality feature allows players to interact with buildings and technology in a more immersive way, enhancing the overall experience.

The Drawbacks of Civilization 5

While Civilization 5 has many strengths, it also has some significant shortcomings:

Unrealistic Battles: Playing Civilization 5 can be a frustrating experience if you are looking for tactical depth. The game's battles are often unrealistic, and units can suffer massive damage without breaking. This can make the player feel less engaged with the battles. Graphics and Optimization: The game's graphics are not as polished as those of Total War, and it may not perform well on lower-end systems. The game's resource management is also relatively simple, which can be a drawback for players who enjoy a more challenging experience.

Comparison and Conclusion

The decision between Total War: Rome 2 and Civilization 5 ultimately comes down to personal preferences. Here’s a summary to help you decide:

Total War: Rome 2: Ideal for players who value historical accuracy, detailed battles, and complex gameplay mechanics. The game is highly optimized and can run on older systems, but it may require a steeper learning curve.

Civilization 5: Perfect for players who want a broad historical scope, simpler gameplay mechanics, and an engaging virtual reality experience. The game is easier to learn and has better graphics, but the battles can be less satisfying.

To compare Civilization 5 and Total War: Rome 2 is like comparing a work of historical fiction and a documentary. Both have their merits, but they appeal to different audiences. If you are a fan of detailed historical simulations and immersive battles, Total War: Rome 2 is the way to go. If you prefer a broader historical scope and a simpler experience, Civilization 5 is the game for you.