http://pc.ign.com/articles/957/957883p1.html
Closing Comments
Empire: Total War is a masterful combination of all the things that I love about strategy games -- a great setting, a first-rate presentation, tactics that reward maneuver, and a strategic layer that requires flexibility in your plans. The 18th century is a perfect setting for the game design, and the new naval battles, while a tad clunky, finally deliver the series' one missing component. The new strategic options are nicely balanced by increased convenience and legibility across the map. True, the end game still drags a bit and there are some small, rough edges in the tactical battles, particularly at sea, but none of those errors compromise the incredible amount of fun you'll have developing your infrastructure, forging alliances and leading your forces into battle.
Ultimately, Empire Total War maintains the excellent fusion of thoughtful turn-based empire building and dramatic tactical action that the series is known for, and it layers many new features on those foundations to reach awesome new heights. I've never given a score this high before, but that's only because I've never played a game as thoroughly enjoyable as Empire Total War.
Simply put, if you're a fan of strategy games, this is one game you must have in your collection.
| Rating | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| out of 10 | click here for ratings guide |
|
| 9.5 | Presentation A perfect combination of game design and setting. Adds more complexity but not more complications. |
|
| 9.0 | Graphics The battles are thrilling, with lots of intense action and realistic effects. A beautiful and lively campaign map. |
|
| 9.0 | Sound The sounds of combat really bring the action to life, and a great score adds a lot to the mood. |
|
| 9.5 | Gameplay Battles are full of variety and interesting tactical choices. The campaign map includes many strategic delights. |
|
| 10 | Lasting Appeal Each nation in the grand campaign has a unique starting situation, so there's lots of opportunity to play again. The Road to Independence campaign is a nice addition. |
|
| 9.5 |
OVERALL (out of 10 / not an average) |
 |
Excellent score, sucks that the Total War are too complicated for me, I love managing the map part, but I can't tolerate the battles, if not I'd give the game a try, Medieval was a very good (though incredibly difficult) game
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EDIT: Gamespot review
http://www.gamespot.com/pc/strategy/empiretotalwar/review.html
Empire: Total War Review
This strategy sequel is incredibly deep, broad, addictive--and a bit rough around the edges.
The Good
- Impressive and ambitious historical scope
- A huge amount of content, online and off
- Both land and naval battles are fun to play and fun to watch
- Addictive gameplay will keep you glued to the monitor.
The Bad
- An array of artificial intelligence issues
- Numerous bugs and performance hitches.
