Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition

Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY
Release: Mar 4th 2009
Platforms:
Strategy
Addictive
Historical
Strategic
Buggy
Outdated
Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition Poster

Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition Review

Total War: EMPIRE – Definitive Edition is a beloved classic in the Total War series, praised for its expansive global scale and unique focus on the gunpowder era. Players appreciate the historical depth, multiple cultures to choose from, and the blend of land and naval warfare that offers a broad strategic experience. The game's interface is generally considered accessible and visually appealing despite its age. Many fans return to the game repeatedly, often enhanced by popular overhaul mods like DarthMod and Imperial Splendour, which address some gameplay and AI limitations. However, the game shows its age in certain mechanics and graphics compared to newer titles.

Critically, the AI and technical stability are common pain points, with frequent crashes and bugs reported, especially in multiplayer campaigns. The AI is often described as lacking sophistication, which can diminish the challenge. Despite these issues, the game remains a nostalgic favorite for many strategy enthusiasts, particularly those interested in the 18th-century historical period. It is recommended to purchase on sale and use mods for the best experience.

Highlights

Players highly praise the game's global strategic scope and the inclusion of naval battles, which are unique within the franchise. The historical setting and variety of factions provide a rich and immersive experience. The game’s UI is noted for being easy to understand and visually pleasing. Fans commend the depth and complexity of the campaign, as well as the freedom to engage in diverse tactical battles. The Definitive Edition offers a solid graphical presentation for its time, and the availability of extensive mods greatly enhances replayability and gameplay refinement.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's technical issues, including frequent crashes, especially during turn transitions and multiplayer sessions. The AI behavior is often described as poor, with troops sometimes acting illogically or passively, reducing strategic challenge. The game’s mechanics and graphics are considered outdated by modern standards, and some players find battles clunky or slow. Multiplayer functionality is reported as buggy and unreliable. Many users emphasize that to fully enjoy the game, installing overhaul mods is almost essential. Some players express frustration that the game has not received significant updates or improvements over the years.

Pros

  • Expansive global map with multiple theaters of war and diverse factions.
  • Engaging naval combat adds depth to traditional Total War gameplay.
  • Accessible and visually appealing user interface for easy navigation.
  • Rich historical setting with detailed 18th-century warfare simulation.
  • Highly replayable with numerous mods enhancing gameplay and AI.
  • Large-scale battles combining land and sea tactics offer variety.
  • Strong nostalgic value as a classic Total War title.

Cons

  • Frequent crashes and technical issues disrupt gameplay experience.
  • AI behavior is often poor, leading to unchallenging battles.
  • Multiplayer mode is buggy and sometimes unstable.
  • Graphics and mechanics feel outdated compared to newer titles.
  • Some battles, especially sieges, can feel clunky and slow.
  • Requires mods for optimal gameplay and bug fixes.
  • Lack of significant updates or improvements over time.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Command the seas, control the land, forge a new nation, and conquer the globe.

Release Date Mar 4th 2009
Publisher SEGA, Feral Interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux)
Developer CREATIVE ASSEMBLY, Feral Interactive (Mac), Feral Interactive (Linux)
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (11,545)
90% Positive 10% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
90