The beauty of Total War: Pharaoh lies not only in its detailed map and historical setting but also in its ability to bring a fresh experience to a long-standing series. Despite playing the Total War franchise for over 20 years, Creative Assembly Sophia has managed to captivate players with the traditional yet captivating gameplay of Total War: Pharaoh. While there are some minor flaws, particularly in regions beyond Egypt, the game’s overall appeal and immersive experience make it a worthwhile endeavor.
What truly shines in Total War: Pharaoh is Egypt itself. The game’s art, lighting, and geography effectively capture the essence of this ancient civilization, leaving players with a deep sense of place and strategic possibilities. The diverse terrains, from sunbaked flood plains to rocky desert peaks, offer unique tactical advantages. For instance, one can take advantage of sand dunes to hide troops and surprise enemies with a tactical ambush. The winding Nile River and the inhospitable deserts also heavily influence strategic decisions, creating a dynamic and challenging gameplay experience.
Pharaoh sets itself apart from other recent Total War games by offering a noticeably more challenging experience. Even players accustomed to the highest difficulties in other titles may find themselves struggling on the Hard difficulty setting, making the gameplay engaging and rewarding. Starting in the southern region as the Kushite Viceroy Amenmesse, players must navigate through civil wars and foreign invasions to keep Egypt thriving. The constant threat of the Sea People adds a sense of urgency and excitement, ensuring that players must remain vigilant to protect their empire.
Total War: Pharaoh introduces an impressive set of empire management mechanics, offering a depth rarely seen in other Total War titles. The addition of outposts in settlements, such as the Valley of the Kings monument and fortified forts, adds a new layer to gameplay. These outposts not only act as defensive strongholds but also change strategic approaches during offensive wars. The game also features mechanics for building waystations, trading posts, and temples, creating a network for efficient travel across the empire. Furthermore, court politics, civil wars, and divine favor systems enhance the overall richness and complexity of the campaign.
While Total War: Pharaoh excels in many aspects, it unfortunately suffers from some minor bugs and limitations. Certain mechanics, such as Legacy powers and influence, may be affected by bugs, negatively impacting the player’s experience. Additionally, the peripheral regions beyond Egypt lack the same level of detail and flavor, making them feel less immersive compared to the heart of Egypt. However, despite these setbacks, Total War: Pharaoh remains a captivating and visually stunning game.