A Total War Saga: TROY

Developer: CREATIVE ASSEMBLY
Release: Sep 2nd 2021
Platforms:
Action
Simulation
Strategy
Mythology
Strategic
Immersive
Bugs
Resource Scarcity
A Total War Saga: TROY Poster

" Immersive action-strategy simulation with unique hero factions but slow early resource growth "

A Total War Saga: TROY Review

A Total War Saga: TROY offers a unique blend of turn-based strategy and real-time battles set against the mythological backdrop of the Trojan War. The game introduces complex resource management with five resource types, which adds depth but can restrict early and mid-game army expansion, leading to a slower pace. Players appreciate the distinct faction mechanics inspired by legendary heroes like Achilles and Hector, and the narrative allows for alternate outcomes rather than a linear retelling of the myth.

Visually, the game impresses with stylized realism, detailed unit models, and atmospheric sound design, though some find the interface cartoonish. However, criticisms include AI behavior that can feel predictable or unfair, shallow diplomacy, and battles that sometimes rely more on unit strength than tactical finesse. Despite some bugs and balance issues, fans of mythology and thematic strategy games find it engaging, while others feel it falls short compared to other Total War titles in scale and strategic depth.

Highlights

Players praise the game's innovative resource management system and the unique faction mechanics that reflect mythological characters. The visuals are widely admired for their stylized realism and detailed environments, creating an immersive ancient Mediterranean atmosphere. The storyline is appreciated for its flexible narrative, allowing multiple outcomes beyond the traditional Trojan War tale. The addition of mythical units interpreted as elite warriors adds fresh flavor without breaking immersion. Fans of Greek mythology especially enjoy the thematic depth and the game's atmospheric soundtrack and voice acting.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the early game resource scarcity that limits army size and slows gameplay, leading to periods of inactivity. The AI is often described as unpredictable or unfair, attacking settlements without risk and requiring players to rely on superior unit strength rather than strategy. Some players find the battles boring or unbalanced, with units like chariots feeling nonsensical. The diplomacy system is seen as shallow, and the interface style is sometimes called cartoonish. Technical issues and bugs, including campaign-breaking glitches, also detract from the experience for some users.

Pros

  • Unique resource management adds strategic depth to empire building.
  • Distinct faction mechanics based on legendary heroes enhance gameplay variety.
  • Stylized realistic visuals create an immersive ancient Mediterranean atmosphere.
  • Flexible narrative allows multiple outcomes beyond traditional Trojan War story.
  • Mythical units are well integrated as elite warriors, maintaining immersion.
  • Atmospheric soundtrack and solid voice acting boost game immersion.
  • Compact campaign offers a refreshing change from larger Total War titles.

Cons

  • Early game resource scarcity restricts army expansion and slows gameplay.
  • AI behavior can be unfair, attacking without risk and lacking strategy.
  • Battles often rely on unit strength over tactical control and planning.
  • Diplomacy system feels shallow and underdeveloped compared to other titles.
  • Some units, like chariots, feel unbalanced or nonsensical in combat.
  • Cartoonish interface style detracts from the otherwise serious tone.
  • Technical bugs and glitches negatively impact campaign progression.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Inspired by The Iliad and brought to life through the award-winning strategy game series, A Total War Saga: TROY brings a blend of grand, turn-based empire management and spectacular real-time battles to the heart of the Trojan War.

Release Date Sep 2nd 2021
Publisher SEGA, Feral Interactive (Mac)
Developer CREATIVE ASSEMBLY, Feral Interactive (Mac)
Platforms

User Reviews

Mixed (1,619)
70% Positive 30% Negative