Summary
Ara: History Untoldlooks like it may manage to beatCivilization 7to the finish line as the next big 4X title. WhileAra: History Untolddoes not have the same name value thatCivilizationhas built up over its existence, the developers seem ambitious with what they have to offer. The game looks to touch upon a lot of what makesCivilizationgames so good, while also featuring a few twists of its own. There are still several months to go beforeAra’s release, but so far, it looks like it could be a challenger forCivilization’s throne.
While there are manystrategy games aside fromCivilizationavailable, the series has established itself near the top of the genre. In addition to giving players a wide array of historical civilizations and leaders, the game’s fundamentals are rock-solid. With several building options and a variety of ways to win, theCivilizationgames are welcoming to several different playstyles.Ara: History Untoldis coming in without that same history, but appears to have a similar aim when it comes to giving players lots of freedom. It should be interesting to see how big of a splashArawill be able to make in the genre.
So far, it seems thatArawill arrive beforeCivilization 7, which is going to give it a natural advantage. If the previews remain promising, it could show itself capable of bringing a lot of what people love aboutCivilization. After all, a sense of familiarity can help players ease intoAra: History Untold. Among the similar features already shown off are:
Some of the more unique aspects ofAracan give it an edge. While there will likely beimprovements made toCivilization 7,Aracan take on concepts that the former series has yet to touch. One particular area of note is the crafting system, where players can collect materials to work on new projects, from swords for armies to rugs and boots for the people. Likewise, the touted simultaneous turn system should give players a new way to look at strategy, since players will have to put a lot of thought into their opponent’s movements.Ara’s players will need to be good at balancing tasks, especially under duress.
The sheer depth ofAra: History Untoldcould turn out to be one of its greatest strengths. While there’s little known about themechanics ofCivilization 7yet,Ara: History Untoldlooks set to give players an absurdly in-depth experience when running their empire. The developers have stated thatAradoes not have specific victory conditions, but the game can still be won. With the emphasis put on players being able to take any direction they wish with their kingdom,Aracould have a unique method for determining an overall victor. It should be interesting to see the methods that players will be able to use to succeed.
Ara: History Untoldis more thanCivilizationwith a different coat of paint, and its impressive depth warrants attention. WhenAra: History Untoldarrives on Xbox Game Pass, players will get to see how well it delivers on its promise. The 4X genre is already known for giving players a lot of data to work with, and Oxide Games is promising something immersive even by genre standards.Ara: History Untoldhas a real chance of grabbing strategy game fans' attention beforeCivilization 7gets the chance.
Sid Meier’s Civilization 6
WHERE TO PLAY
Civilization VIoffers new ways to engage with your world: cities now physically expand across the map, active research in technology and culture unlocks new potential, and competing leaders will pursue their own agendas based on their historical traits as you race for one of five ways to achieve victory in the game.Expansive empiresSee the marvels of your empire spread across the map like never before. Each district, wonder, and improvement is built on its own hex, allowing you to customize your city to your heart’s content. From the Commercial Hub to the Spaceport, every district provides unique and powerful bonuses. Pick and choose which districts to build to fit your needs! Build better than your opponents, place yourself strategically for your allies, and become the best civilization on Earth.Active ResearchBoost your civilization’s progress through history to unlock powerful bonuses before anyone else! To advance more quickly, use your units to actively explore, develop your environment, and discover new cultures. Research isn’t just limited to science. Explore the Civics tree to unlock powerful new governments and cultural policies Cultivate the civilization that fits your playstyle, or switch it up every time you play!Dynamic diplomacyAs the game progresses, so do your diplomatic relationships. From primitive first interactions where conflict is a fact of life, to late game alliances and negotiations. Carry influence with nearby city states to gain its diplomatic allegiance and earn game-changing city-state bonuses. Enlist spies to gather crucial intel on rival civilizations, steal precious resources, and even topple governments.
