Old World
" Revolutionary historical strategy RPG with rich dynasty storytelling but a steep learning curve "
Old World Review
Old World is a that successfully combines the empire-building depth of Civilization with the dynastic storytelling and political complexity of Crusader Kings. Players manage a classical era civilization with a focus on character-driven narratives, where leaders age, die, and pass on legacies, making each campaign feel personal and dynamic. The game introduces an innovative Orders system, limiting actions per turn to encourage strategic prioritization, which adds tension and depth to gameplay. The blend of city management, diplomacy, and event-driven storytelling creates a rich, immersive experience.
Visually, Old World features a clean, painterly aesthetic and an intuitive UI that presents complex information clearly. The soundtrack and sound design enhance immersion without overwhelming players. While the narrower historical scope and learning curve may challenge some, the game is widely praised for its originality, strategic depth, and engaging narrative elements, making it a standout in the 4X genre.
Highlights
Players particularly praise Old World's innovative Orders system that demands careful action prioritization each turn, refreshing traditional 4X gameplay.
The dynastic storytelling and character-driven events add emotional weight and unpredictability, setting it apart from typical strategy games.
The game’s clean graphics and atmospheric soundtrack complement the classical era setting, while the UI effectively manages complex game systems.
Replayability is strong due to branching narratives and varied strategies, appealing to fans of deep, strategic empire-building.
Criticisms
Some players find the game slow-paced and occasionally tedious, with the limited orders sometimes making turns feel restrictive or unevenly busy.
The randomness in event outcomes can lead to repetitive or uncontrollable narrative experiences.
Compared to Civilization, Old World has fewer unique victory conditions and less macromanagement, which some feel limits late-game variety.
Graphically, while functional and stylistic, it is considered by some as dated or less flashy compared to other modern strategy titles.
Finally, the game’s complexity and learning curve may intimidate newcomers expecting a more traditional Civ-like experience.
Pros
- • Innovative Orders system adds strategic tension and prioritization each turn.
- • Rich dynastic storytelling with evolving leader personalities and family dynamics.
- • Blends Civilization and Crusader Kings mechanics into a unique 4X experience.
- • Clean, painterly graphics that suit the classical era setting well.
- • Immersive soundtrack and subtle voice acting enhance atmosphere.
- • Intuitive UI effectively manages complex game information.
- • Strong replayability through branching events and multiple strategies.
Cons
- • Limited orders per turn can lead to uneven pacing and frustration.
- • Random event outcomes sometimes reduce player control and feel repetitive.
- • Lacks diverse or unique victory conditions compared to other 4X games.
- • Late-game can feel grindy with prolonged warfare and micromanagement.
- • Graphically considered dated or less polished by some players.
- • Steep learning curve may deter players expecting traditional Civ gameplay.
- • Some players find the game slow and tedious in parts.
Rating Criteria
Old World is a revolutionary new historical strategy game where you lead your dynasty over generations of rule against rival kings and queens. Wage massive wars, manage your court, and build a dynasty — or watch your empire crumble to dust. What legacy will you leave behind?
