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Rome: Total War

Rome: Total War Game Cover
94%Game Brain Score
graphics, gameplay
optimization, stability
95% User Score Based on 10,894 reviews
Critic Score 90%Based on 2 reviews

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Rome: Total War Game Cover

About

Rome: Total War is a single player and multiplayer tactical role playing game with warfare and historical themes. It was developed by CREATIVE ASSEMBLY and was released on August 27, 2007. It received positive reviews from critics and very positive reviews from players.

"Rome: Total War™ - Collection" is a strategy game that transports players to the ancient Roman world. Command one of three powerful factions and expand your empire through strategic warfare and political intrigue. The collection includes the original game and its expansion, "Barbarian Invasion," offering hours of historical combat and empire-building.

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Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
Rome: Total War screenshot
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95%
Audience ScoreBased on 10,894 reviews
graphics217 positive mentions
optimization36 negative mentions
  • The gameplay blends turn-based strategy and real-time tactical battles, offering a deep and engaging experience that remains enjoyable even years after its release.
  • The music is widely praised for its epic and immersive quality, enhancing the game's historical atmosphere and gameplay experience.
  • The game offers exceptional replayability due to its diverse factions, unique strategies, and a vibrant modding community that keeps the experience fresh.
  • The game suffers from significant bugs, crashes, and performance issues, particularly on modern systems, which can detract from the overall experience.
  • Many players find the campaign pacing slow and tedious, especially in the late game, with micromanagement becoming a chore.
  • The graphics are dated, which may hinder the experience for some players, despite the nostalgic charm they provide.
  • graphics
    823 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of "Rome: Total War" are widely regarded as dated, reflecting its 2004 release, yet many players appreciate their nostalgic charm and the game's overall artistic direction. While the remastered version offers improved visuals and performance, the original still holds up well enough for gameplay, especially on lower-end systems. Overall, despite the graphical limitations, the game's depth and engaging mechanics continue to shine, making it a beloved classic in the strategy genre.

    • “The graphics are dated, but they are definitely not bad.”
    • “For its time, the visuals are fantastic and the music even more so.”
    • “The graphics may have aged, but the gameplay is still great.”
    • “The graphics are certainly outdated, but the upside of this is it will work on almost all computers with the right settings, and doesn't take up a lot of storage.”
    • “The graphics are dated, of course, but I find the gameplay engrossing.”
    • “The graphics may be a bit dated, but the game is amazing and the expansions are fun.”
  • gameplay
    659 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of "Rome: Total War" is widely praised for its blend of turn-based strategy and real-time tactical battles, offering a deep and engaging experience that remains enjoyable even years after its release. Players appreciate the game's mechanics, which include managing resources, unique faction traits, and historical battles, while also noting the charm of its simplicity despite some outdated graphics. The vibrant modding community further enhances the gameplay, providing additional content and improvements that keep the game fresh and relevant for both new and returning players.

    • “Even years later, it remains a towering achievement in the strategy genre, remembered fondly for its gameplay innovations, memorable campaigns, and enduring modding community.”
    • “The gameplay mechanics are flawless, offering a perfect balance between turn-based empire management and real-time tactical combat.”
    • “Rome: Total War is a classic strategy game with lots of great mods giving it untold hours of superb strategic gameplay.”
    • “However, the gameplay and mechanics are nearly timeless.”
    • “The gameplay makes up for most however, though the actions in a battle is quite limited and controls are a bit clunky, which reduces tactical play.”
    • “Nostalgia may blind many, but, considering how idiotic and outright frustrating several mechanics of the game are (chain routing of your elite units for no reason, one recruiting slot per turn for all cities, absolutely atrocious pathfinding, lack of any meaningful balance between factions), this game can be annoying to play to say the very least.”
  • music
    248 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in "Rome: Total War" is widely praised for its epic and immersive quality, enhancing the game's historical atmosphere and gameplay experience. Composed by Jeff van Dyck, the soundtrack features stirring themes that resonate with players, making battles feel grand and memorable. Many reviewers highlight the music as a standout element, often recalling it fondly long after playing, and consider it one of the best soundtracks in gaming history.

    • “From the stirring Roman soundtrack to the battlefield voice commands and city designs inspired by historical architecture, Rome: Total War excels at immersing players in antiquity.”
    • “The soundtrack and musical numbers in this were great too, nothing like getting you pumped up in the midst of battle at key turning points in the campaign.”
    • “The music is outstanding and fitting, the game is simplified compared to later Total War games and for me that is a good thing; complicated doesn't always mean better.”
    • “The music is fitting and helps get you in the mood, especially on the battlefield, and has a good variety of units.”
    • “Now the game doesn’t have many tracks to get you humming along; in fact, it has a couple of tracks running in the background, and some music to set the mood for a fight, but that’s about it, and that’s one of the things letting this game down in my opinion.”
    • “The music in the game, it's alright.”
  • replayability
    143 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, attributed to its diverse factions, unique strategies, and the ability to unlock additional playable nations. Players appreciate the depth and variety offered by different cultures and geographic challenges, making each campaign feel distinct. Additionally, the modding community enhances the experience, providing nearly infinite replay value even years after its release.

    • “Its combination of epic battles, robust empire management, and replayability make it a must-play for strategy enthusiasts.”
    • “A truly remarkable experience offering almost unlimited replayability.”
    • “The replayability is astronomical, especially with the use of mods.”
    • “The AI system, in particular, was not as challenging or strategic as some players would have liked, which led to a lack of difficulty and replayability.”
    • “While I enjoyed the time I played on this game, I feel as though I won't ever play it again due to it having little replay value.”
    • “Despite this, it remains a game with an absolute ton of variety and replayability, and is deep enough to keep your attention for a long time, no matter if you're a fan of the series or just looking for the right one to start with.”
  • optimization
    114 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The optimization of "Rome: Total War" has received mixed reviews, with many players noting significant performance issues, particularly with the Steam version, which is often described as poorly optimized for modern hardware. While some users report that the game can run smoothly with specific tweaks and mods, others experience severe lag and crashes, especially during large battles. Overall, the game is seen as functional but requires considerable effort to achieve satisfactory performance on contemporary systems.

    • “Despite its age, Rome: Total War runs smoothly on modern systems, with only minor compatibility tweaks occasionally needed.”
    • “It requires some performance tweaking to run well on modern systems, but it's overall quite functional on recent hardware/software.”
    • “The original version is optimized to run on only one CPU core, and doesn't have native resolutions above 1600x1400, both being addressed in the remastered version.”
    • “The steam version is completely screwed up in terms of performance; if you can find the CD version, it will run a lot better.”
    • “Constant performance issues and crashes on a high-performance computer are unacceptable for a game that's been out as long as this one has.”
    • “The game itself is unoptimized, at least for me, and Medieval 2 offers much more in the ways of replayability and mods.”
  • story
    107 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story in "Rome: Total War" is a blend of historical events and player-driven narratives, with the Roman Senate providing missions that guide gameplay and influence faction dynamics. While some players appreciate the depth and immersive nature of the campaign, others criticize the missions for being repetitive or inconsequential, leading to mixed feelings about the overall narrative experience. Despite its flaws, the game offers a rich historical backdrop and the opportunity for players to create their own unique stories through strategic choices and alliances.

    • “The senate missions, political intrigue, and eventual opportunity to betray Rome itself and crown your own emperor provide narrative depth rarely seen in strategy games of its era.”
    • “It has its flaws, but what brings you back time and again is the immersive campaign story and the notable Jeff van Dyck musical score -- not to be missed.”
    • “Each faction plays very differently, having access to different unit types and requiring dramatically different strategies, which results in every playthrough feeling like its own epic story.”
    • “The game sanitizes Rome's genocidal conquests, systemic slavery, and sexual violence—reframing them as 'civilizing missions' rather than crimes against humanity.”
    • “I would also say that most of the senate missions are largely inconsequential and not particularly interesting or challenging if you're playing as the Romans.”
    • “The story mode is boring as hell and I never played much of that.”
  • stability
    79 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users noting significant bugs, crashes, and glitches, particularly on modern systems. While some players report that it runs well with minimal issues, others experience frequent crashes and pathfinding problems. Overall, despite its age and inherent bugs, many still consider it a classic and enjoyable experience, especially when compared to newer titles in the series.

    • “This game runs great.”
    • “Unlike its sequel, you can expect no glitches!”
    • “It runs great on my crappy laptop and the scale of warfare is amazing.”
    • “Seems like a great game, but far too buggy on modern systems.”
    • “The game is also buggy and unit pathing is bad.”
    • “It is buggy as heck, has lots of lag, and crashes frequently.”
  • humor
    38 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with players finding joy in its glitches, quirky AI, and amusing voice acting, which often leads to hilarious in-game scenarios. Many reviews highlight the comedic elements of gameplay, such as absurd unit matchups and the entertaining descriptions of characters, making it a fun experience, especially when played with friends. Overall, the game's blend of strategy and humor creates a charming and unique atmosphere that resonates with players.

    • “It's hilarious watching elephants steamroll an army; creepy too how a lot of soundbites from this game are found scattered across media.”
    • “As a younger player, I found it hilarious to create an army full of thousands of war dogs and fight rebel peasants, shouting 'cry havoc and unleash the dogs of war!' as I did so.”
    • “Those that struck me in this game were the hilarious descriptions and attributes of the generals, which adds flesh to the polygons you command.”
    • “The humor in this game falls flat; the jokes feel forced and unoriginal, making it hard to stay engaged.”
    • “I expected a lot more laughs, but the attempts at humor are cringeworthy and often miss the mark.”
    • “The comedic elements are so poorly executed that they detract from the overall experience rather than enhance it.”
  • atmosphere
    35 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its immersive and nostalgic qualities, enhanced by a stirring soundtrack and realistic sound effects that transport players to the ancient world. Despite some dated graphics, the combination of epic battles, deep campaigns, and a vibrant historical setting creates an unforgettable experience that resonates with players of all ages. Many reviewers highlight the game's ability to evoke a sense of scale and realism, making it a standout title in the Total War series.

    • “The battles are epic, the campaign is deep, and the historical atmosphere is unforgettable.”
    • “Combined with a stirring soundtrack, atmospheric battle sounds, and memorable voiceovers, the game pulls you into its ancient world with ease.”
    • “The best in the Total War franchise due to its immersion, atmosphere, and realistic depictions of battles.”
    • “Though there have been some very popular Total War games since Rome, for me they've never captured quite the same atmosphere.”
    • “Sure, the graphics aren't great, but the music, the atmosphere it brings, along with the simplicity of the gameplay is what makes me keep coming back to it.”
    • “Also this game variates a lot more than you’d think, the terrain and weather and basically all the nature, and even soldiers surrounding the battlefield has an effect on the battle itself, and it manages to create a somewhat realistic atmosphere.”
  • grinding
    18 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be a mixed experience. While the strategic and tactical gameplay is praised, many note that managing provinces and dealing with rebel armies can become tedious, especially in the late game. The option to auto-resolve battles offers some relief, but the overall micromanagement and campaign pacing can still feel slow and repetitive for some players.

    • “Just be aware that if you play the vanilla version, the number of rebel armies you fight becomes tedious by late game (you can auto-resolve any battle if you like) and the campaign map can be slow on modern laptops unless you make some tweaks/experiment with software.”
    • “Other things I found annoying is the tediousness of conquering and holding 50 provinces in the full imperial campaign.”
    • “The world map can get tedious, what with all the squalor and rebellions.”
  • emotional
    9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players express that the game evokes deep emotional engagement, with heartfelt speeches from generals enhancing the sense of connection to the characters and their struggles. Many reviewers highlight a transformative experience, feeling spiritually and emotionally invested in their campaigns, particularly in the context of commanding troops and strategizing for world domination. Overall, the game successfully immerses players in a narrative that resonates on a personal level, making them feel like true leaders.

    • “This game transformed me spiritually and emotionally.”
    • “There is no other Total War game I have ever played that made me feel I was commanding actual people.”
    • “Heartfelt speeches from generals before each battle, which reflect the traits they have earned.”
  • monetization
    8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Reviews highlight a strong dissatisfaction with the game's monetization practices, labeling it as a "cash grab" and criticizing the prevalence of microtransactions and overpriced DLC. Many users express a desire for a return to more consumer-friendly practices, urging fellow gamers to boycott titles that prioritize profit over quality and completeness. Overall, the sentiment reflects a call for accountability in the gaming industry regarding monetization strategies.

    • “This game was released before CA gave into microtransactions and 'pushing a political agenda'.”
    • “Sad to see this company sell out for profit margins, incomplete and bugged releases, and microtransactions.”
    • “I am telling you that if you wish for companies to stop these terrible business practices, then we as a consumer base need to stop buying their games and incentivizing them to continue selling unfinished, cash grabs at full price.”
    • “It comes from a time period when strategy meant logic, reason, tactical prowess, and intelligence; not pay-to-win microtransactions.”
  • character development
    4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in this title is highlighted by a dynastic progression system where generals acquire traits through their actions, adding depth and unpredictability to campaigns. While it may lack the battlefield depth of later entries and falls short in overworld gameplay compared to "3 Kingdoms," it remains a standout for its engaging character development and empire-building mechanics. Players are encouraged to strategically research unit properties and complement them with various character roles for optimal gameplay.

    • “The family tree and character development systems give a sense of dynastic progression, and generals gain traits based on actions, victories, and missteps—adding personality and unpredictability to each campaign.”
    • “It doesn't have the same depth in the battlefield as the later titles, and definitely falls short in terms of overworld gameplay compared to 3 Kingdoms, but it's the entry that brought Total War into the spotlight with satisfying combat and engaging character development and empire building.”
    • “I haven't played some of the most recent titles, but this had the best character development out of the ones I've played.”
    • “The family tree and character development systems give a sense of dynastic progression, but the overall depth feels lacking, making it hard to form a genuine connection with the characters.”
    • “I suggest you research each unit's properties and how to complement the units with city and general; however, the character development options for monks, ninjas, and merchants feel underwhelming and uninspired.”
    • “While the game introduces various character traits, the development feels superficial, lacking meaningful choices that impact gameplay or narrative.”
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90%Critics’ scoreBased on 2 critic reviews
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156h Median play time
429h Average play time
34h Main story
125h Completionist
20-700h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 42 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Rome: Total War is a tactical role playing game with warfare and historical themes.

Rome: Total War is available on PC, Mac OS, Phone, iPad and others.

The main story can be completed in around 34 hours, while the entire game is estimated to take about 125 hours to finish. On average players spend around 429 hours playing Rome: Total War.

Rome: Total War was released on August 27, 2007.

Rome: Total War was developed by CREATIVE ASSEMBLY.

Rome: Total War has received very positive reviews from players. Most players liked this game for its graphics but disliked it for its optimization.

Rome: Total War is a single player game with multiplayer support.

Similar games include Medieval II: Total War, Total War: Shogun 2, Total War: Rome II, Sid Meier's Civilization® III Complete, Rise of Nations and others.