Which Total War is Best? A Comprehensive Comparison
The Total War series has been a staple of the gaming community for over two decades, with each installment offering a unique blend of turn-based strategy and real-time action. With nine main series and numerous spin-offs, the question on everyone’s mind is: which Total War is the best? In this article, we’ll delve into the characteristics of each game, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determine which one takes the crown.
Contents
Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai
Released in 2011, Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai is often considered the best Total War game ever made. Set in 19th-century Japan, this game revolutionized the series with its refined battle mechanics, improved diplomacy system, and stunning visuals.
Pros:
- Immersive battle mechanics: Shogun 2’s battles were praised for their complexity, with a focus on morale, flanking, and positioning.
- Improved diplomacy: The game introduced a more nuanced diplomacy system, allowing for more realistic interactions between factions.
- Stunning visuals: Shogun 2’s art style and animations were critically acclaimed, setting a new standard for the series.
Cons:
- Limited campaign: The single-player campaign was relatively short, with some players experiencing fatigue after completing the main objectives.
- No historical accuracy: While the game’s setting was inspired by Japanese history, it took some creative liberties, which might be a turn-off for history buffs.
Ratings:
| Pros | Cons | Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai | High | Medium | 9.5/10 |
Rome II: Empire Divided
Released in 2013, Rome II: Empire Divided was a major departure from the series’ traditional approach. Set in ancient Rome, this game introduced new features like a dynamic battlefield and a more complex economy.
Pros:
- Dynamic battlefield: Rome II’s battles allowed for more fluid and interactive combat, with units dynamically moving and responding to events.
- Improved diplomacy: The game’s diplomacy system was more complex and nuanced, with factions more willing to form alliances or declare war.
- More complex economy: Players had to manage resources and trade more effectively, with a greater emphasis on taxation and infrastructure development.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve: Rome II’s new mechanics and features made it a challenging game to learn for new players.
- Technical issues: The game was plagued by bugs, crashes, and performance issues at launch.
Ratings:
| Pros | Cons | Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rome II: Empire Divided | High | Medium-High | 8.5/10 |
Warhammer III
Released in 2022, Warhammer III is the latest mainline Total War game and a departure from the historical settings of previous titles. Set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe, this game combines the series’ strategic gameplay with the dark, gothic world of the Warhammer setting.
Pros:
- Immersive setting: Warhammer III’s grimdark world is richly detailed and immersive, offering a unique gaming experience.
- New mechanics: The game introduces new magical abilities, daemonic possession, and a more dynamic weather system.
- Improved diplomacy: The game’s diplomacy system is more complex and nuanced, allowing for more realistic interactions between factions.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve: Warhammer III’s new mechanics and setting can be overwhelming for new players.
- Short campaign: The game’s single-player campaign is relatively short, with some players experiencing fatigue after completing the main objectives.
Ratings:
| Pros | Cons | Overall | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warhammer III | High | Medium | 9.0/10 |
Which Total War is Best?
Based on the ratings and pros/cons, Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai takes the crown as the best Total War game. Its refined battle mechanics, improved diplomacy, and stunning visuals make it a standout title in the series. While Rome II: Empire Divided and Warhammer III have their strengths, they are marred by technical issues and steep learning curves.
Tips for New Players:
- Start with Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai for its refined gameplay and accessible learning curve.
- Rome II: Empire Divided requires more patience and dedication due to its complex mechanics.
- Warhammer III is recommended for fans of the Warhammer setting and willing to invest time in learning the new mechanics.
Conclusion:
The Total War series has come a long way since its inception, with each game building upon the last. While there is no one "right" answer to the question of which Total War is best, Shogun 2: Fall of the Samurai is the most well-rounded and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the series, Total War has something to offer.
