Video Game Review: Old World and Its Expansions
Overall Rating: 8.8/10
- Gameplay: 9.0/10
- Graphics and Art Design: 8.5/10
- Sound and Music: 9.0/10
- Replayability: 8.7/10
- Performance and Optimization: 8.8/10
Introduction
Old World, developed by Mohawk Games and led by designer Soren Johnson, renowned for his work on Civilization IV, is a turn-based 4X strategy game that delves into the ancient and classical eras of human history. Released for Windows and macOS on July 1, 2021, and later for Linux on May 19, 2022, the game introduces innovative mechanics that distinguish it from traditional titles in the genre. zh.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2it.wikipedia.org+2
Gameplay (9.0/10)
Old World offers a rich and intricate gameplay experience, blending traditional 4X elements with novel mechanics.
Strengths:
- Dynastic System: Players manage ruling families, with leaders aging, developing traits, and producing heirs, adding depth to strategic planning.
- Order Mechanic: A unique order system limits actions per turn, requiring thoughtful allocation of resources and strategic foresight.
- Event System: Dynamic events influenced by leader traits and decisions provide a narrative layer, enhancing engagement.
Weaknesses:
- Complexity for New Players: The intricate systems may present a steep learning curve for newcomers to the genre.
- Limited Era Progression: Focusing solely on ancient and classical periods may restrict long-term strategic variety.en.wikipedia.org
Graphics and Art Design (8.5/10)
The visual presentation of Old World is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Strengths:
- Detailed Map Design: The game features a richly detailed map with varied terrains and vibrant colors, enhancing visual appeal.
- Character Portraits: Distinctive and expressive character designs contribute to the immersive experience.
Weaknesses:
- Animation Limitations: Unit animations are functional but lack the fluidity seen in some contemporary titles.
- Interface Density: The user interface can appear cluttered, potentially overwhelming new players.
Sound and Music (9.0/10)
The auditory elements of Old World significantly enhance its immersive quality.
Strengths:
- Award-Nominated Soundtrack: Composed by Christopher Tin, the game’s soundtrack received a Grammy nomination, underscoring its exceptional quality. it.wikipedia.org
- Ambient Soundscapes: Environmental sounds and musical cues adapt to in-game events, enriching the atmosphere.
Weaknesses:
- Repetitive Audio Clips: Some voice lines and sound effects may become repetitive over extended play sessions.
Replayability (8.7/10)
Old World offers substantial replay value through its dynamic systems and content variety.
Strengths:
- Procedurally Generated Maps: Each playthrough features a unique world, encouraging exploration of different strategies.
- Diverse Civilizations: Multiple playable nations with unique traits and events provide varied experiences.
Weaknesses:
- Content Saturation: After numerous playthroughs, players may encounter recurring events, slightly diminishing novelty.
Performance and Optimization (8.8/10)
The game performs reliably across supported platforms, with minor areas for improvement.
Strengths:
- Stable Performance: Reports indicate minimal crashes or significant technical issues.
- Efficient Resource Usage: The game runs smoothly on a range of hardware configurations, showcasing effective optimization.
Weaknesses:
- Loading Times: Initial game loading can be prolonged, potentially impacting user experience.
Expansions Overview
Old World has been enriched by several expansions, each introducing new content and mechanics.
- Heroes of the Aegean (May 19, 2022):
- Content: Introduces scenarios centered around Macedonian and Greek history, adding the Hittites as a playable civilization.
- Reception: Praised for historical depth and engaging scenarios, enhancing the base game experience.
- The Sacred and The Profane (January 17, 2023):
- Content: Expands religious dynamics with new events, decisions, and character traits related to faith and piety.
- Reception: Acknowledged for adding complexity to religious mechanics, offering deeper strategic choices.
- Pharaohs of the Nile (October 5, 2023):
- Content: Focuses on Egyptian history with new scenarios and introduces Kush as a playable civilization.
- Reception: Celebrated for its rich portrayal of Egyptian culture and strategic depth.
- Wonders and Dynasties (January 12, 2024):
- Content: Introduces dynasty mechanics, historical events, notable figures, and eight ancient world wonders.zh.wikipedia.org
- Reception: Applauded for enriching the dynastic gameplay and adding iconic structures.
- Wrath of Gods (March 3, 2025):
- Content: Adds nine natural disasters and introduces Aksum as a playable civilization.
- Reception: Not yet widely reviewed due to recent release; anticipated to add dynamic challenges to gameplay.
Conclusion
Old World successfully carves its niche in the 4X strategy space, blending classic empire-building mechanics with innovative dynasty-based storytelling. With its engaging order system, dynamic event chains, and robust expansion support, it offers a fresh yet familiar experience for both Civilization veterans and newcomers. While its historical focus limits technological progression beyond the classical era, its depth in diplomacy, warfare, and generational politics makes each playthrough uniquely compelling.
With its continued post-launch support and growing expansion roster, Old World stands as a modern classic in the historical strategy genre. Whether you’re a ruler aiming to create an unbroken dynasty or a tactician plotting a conquest, this game ensures that history is yours to rewrite—one turn at a time.
Impartial Reviews 