Warlords

Game review

Warlords, a classic strategy war game, invites players into the medieval kingdom of Illuria, where a tense and unstable truce has given way to a fierce struggle for supremacy. Up to eight players, either human or computer-controlled, vie for control in this engrossing battle for dominance. The game’s premise is straightforward yet compelling: to achieve world domination by conquering the entire empire of Illuria.

In Warlords, players are tasked with controlling and maneuvering armies across a map dotted with 80 cities. The strategic depth of the game is evident in the need to carefully manage these cities, as they are not only strategic points but also sources of gold, the vital resource for building and maintaining your armies. This economic aspect adds a layer of complexity, requiring players to balance military might with financial prudence.

A unique feature of Warlords is the option to play with various human and non-human factions, each with distinct strengths and weaknesses, adding a fantastical element to the medieval setting. Players can even choose to play as the ominous "evil Warlord," adding a twist to the traditional good versus evil narrative often seen in strategy games.

Heroes play a pivotal role in Warlords. These special units have the ability to "find" items or receive rewards from sages, introducing elements of chance and surprise that can significantly influence the course of the game. However, with only two sages available, securing their favor becomes a competitive aspect of gameplay.

Warlords can be seen as a precursor to modern strategy games, introducing many elements that would become staples in the genre. Its blend of military strategy, resource management, and fantasy elements make it a foundational title in the evolution of strategy gaming. For enthusiasts of the genre, Warlords offers a nostalgic journey back to the roots of strategy gaming and remains a fascinating study in the early days of complex game design.