Anno 117: This Upcoming Game Could Be Absolutely Fantastic!

Immersing into the Roman Era with “Anno 117”

Imagine the scene: rays of the setting sun casting a red-orange glow through the pillars of a newly constructed aqueduct, bustling streets filled with people pulling carts towards the market, and stone houses stretching as far as the eye can see. This picturesque setting is part of the deep, absorbing world of “Anno 117,” the latest installment from German developer Blue Byte, which continues the legacy of the beloved city-building series.

### The New Setting: A Peaceful Roman Empire

“Anno 117” introduces players to a period known as the Pax Romana, a nearly 200-year span characterized by relative peace and stability within the Roman Empire. This era is perfect for the game’s signature blend of peaceful city building, thriving economy, and cultural exchange. The backdrop allows players to engineer a bustling metropolis without the constant threat of war, although the strategic placement of military buildings suggests that conflict might never be too far away.

### Start Your Empire Where You Wish

For the first time in the series, “Anno 117” offers players a choice between starting their journey in the Roman heartland of Latium or the Celtic kingdom of Albion. This choice not only adds a layer of personalization but also influences whether you align more with the traditionalist or rebellious elements of the era. Despite the choice, our gameplay session began in Latium, where the familiar yet breathtaking visuals reminiscent of “Anno 1800” greeted us.

### Familiar Foundations with Fresh Twists

While the game builds on the solid foundation laid by its predecessor, “Anno 1800,” the developers at Ubisoft Blue Byte have introduced several innovative features to enhance the gameplay experience. One notable addition is the flexibility in building placement. Players can now position their first homes at 45-degree angles, deviating from the traditional 90-degree grid system. This new mechanic offers urban planners more creative freedom to tailor their cities to their liking, though one can stick to the simpler, classic building methods if they prefer.

### Enhancements That Make a Difference

The introduction of building buffs is another fresh feature. Certain production buildings now impact residential areas within their radius, offering benefits like increased income but also bringing risks such as higher fire hazards. This adds a new layer of strategic depth as players must carefully consider the pros and cons of their building placements.

Beyond physical structures, “Anno 117” presents an enriched gameplay experience through the needs and desires of its citizens. While basic needs like food remain essential for citizen satisfaction and class upgrades, optional needs add a new dynamic; different food types like sardines or oatmeal can now boost economic or workforce benefits respectively.

### Delving into Research and Religion

The game also introduces a divided science tree, categorized into economy, social, and military branches. Advancements in this tree depend on educational structures like the Grammaticus, which provides science points based on the number of nearby residences. This system, although potentially complex, promises to enrich the strategic component of city management.

Additionally, the introduction of a sanctuary where players can choose a protective deity for their city adds a spiritual dimension to governance. Each deity offers unique bonuses, reflecting the historical use of religion as both a cultural and strategic tool in governance.

### Anticipations and Potential

While our gameplay experience was brief, it was hard to pull away from the immersive world of “Anno 117.” The game beautifully extends the solid gameplay of “Anno 1800” while incorporating exciting new elements that promise to keep players engaged. Questions remain about the long-term impact of these innovations, such as the full extent of the military systems and the effectiveness of the science tree. Additionally, the potential of Albion as a starting region and the overall depth of the Roman architectural experience are aspects that time will unveil.

In summary, “Anno 117” is shaping up to be a tantalizing addition to the series, potentially offering both a rewarding challenge for seasoned strategists and a captivating environment for those new to the series. As we look forward to its release later this year, the initial impressions suggest that this journey back to ancient Rome will be both enriching and enjoyable.

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Ned Winslow

Ned Winslow is passionate about technological innovations. He writes about AI, cybersecurity, startups, and big tech companies. He makes technology understandable for everyone, with a critical eye on its impacts.