Mare Nostrvm

About

Mare Nostrvm is a single player and multiplayer turn-based strategy game with a historical theme. It was developed by Turnopia and was released on November 2, 2017. It received positive reviews from players.

From the dawn of history to the Roman Civil Wars, from Iberia to Cyprus, revive the ancient naval battles of the Mediterranean Sea.

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87%

Audience ScoreBased on 30 reviews

graphics4 positive mentions

music3 negative mentions

Unique subject matter with no direct competitors, focusing on ancient naval warfare with historically faithful mechanics and a challenging campaign.
Complex and engaging WEGO simultaneous turn-based system that offers deep tactical gameplay and a steep learning curve for dedicated players.
Clear and intuitive interface with crisp, legible graphics; includes a variety of ship types, factions, and scenarios that provide many hours of quality gameplay.

Long turn execution times and slow game pace, even when fast-forwarding, which can make gameplay feel tedious and frustrating.
Unintuitive movement mechanics due to 'half hex' positioning causing stuck ships and chaotic battles that are difficult to manage.
Lack of important interface features such as a 'next unit' button and automatic regroup tools, making micromanagement overwhelming in large battles.

gameplay
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
27%
46%
27%
The gameplay offers deep, complex mechanics inspired by historical naval wargames, featuring simultaneous turns that enhance realism and tactical depth. Despite minimalist graphics and interface, the game shines in its intricate fleet management and unpredictable AI, though a thorough tutorial is essential to grasp its steep learning curve. Overall, gameplay is the standout aspect, providing a challenging and engaging experience for strategy enthusiasts.
- “That said, it's got charming, crisp and legible graphics and UI, lots of fun chrome (raking oars, setting ships alight, boarding, ramming, rams getting stuck in enemy ships, sail mechanics, etc.), and there really is no other hardcore wargame on PC depicting the era, at least not in the last 30 years.”
- “Inspired by board wargames and ancient Mediterranean history, this is one of those games where a minimalist interface and plain graphics are a misleading cover for complex mechanics and a steep learning curve in gameplay.”
- “There is an admirable elegance to the design of Mare Nostrum: the core mechanics are based on the wego or we-go system, which executes turns simultaneously instead of the more traditional i-go-you-go, making the game as realistic as it can get from a top-down perspective.”
- “Micromanagement of fleets and ship stats can turn gameplay into a bit of a chore.”
- “The tutorial is very much necessary; nodding through it will leave the player lost and unable to take full advantage of the mechanics based on the stats of ships.”
- “Inspired by board wargames and ancient Mediterranean history, it is one of those games where a minimalist interface and plain graphics are a misleading cover for complex mechanics and a steep learning curve in gameplay.”
graphics
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
30%
30%
The graphics are simple, minimalist, and utilitarian, featuring clear and legible visuals with charming details like a ceramic mosaic-style Mediterranean map. While not flashy or highly detailed, the design effectively complements the complex mechanics and historical theme, providing an aesthetically pleasing yet functional interface that emphasizes gameplay over visual flair.
- “That said, it's got charming, crisp, and legible graphics and UI, with lots of fun chrome effects like raking oars, setting ships alight, boarding, ramming, and sail mechanics, making it a unique hardcore wargame on PC depicting the era.”
- “The main interface features a beautiful map of the Mediterranean Sea styled as a ceramic mosaic, fitting with the minimalist design and giving it a genuinely Roman aesthetic.”
- “The graphics are simple yet very pleasing to look at, complementing the complex mechanics and steep learning curve.”
- “The game features a minimalist interface and plain graphics that serve as a misleading cover for complex mechanics and a steep learning curve.”
- “The graphics are simple and utilitarian, lacking embellishment but fitting the tabletop style wargame aesthetic.”
- “Minimalist graphics may not appeal to players looking for more visually rich or detailed visuals.”
story
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The story offers an engaging historical experience focused on ancient naval warfare, distinct from typical land combat games. It features 24 historic battles across nine campaigns, allowing players to progress without needing to win every mission.
- “Learning about ancient naval warfare is very interesting; these units are nothing like land warfare units you may be used to from Combat Mission.”
- “The game features twenty-four historic battles scattered across nine campaigns; victory is (thankfully) not required in order to advance to the next mission.”
- “I love that this exists; I would describe it as Combat Mission but for ancient naval warfare.”
music
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
100%
The music features prominent Roman martial brass tones, which some users find repetitive or off-putting, particularly the intro song that many choose to turn off. However, sound effects are generally well-received.
- “Good sound effects that enhance the gameplay experience.”
- “The soundtrack features distinct Roman martial music with powerful brass tones.”
- “Good sound effects, horrible intro song (turned it off).”
- “The soundtrack is also obviously Roman martial music in brass tones.”
- “The soundtrack is also obviously Roman martial music in brass tones.”