Fantasy turn-based strategy with great charm

Age of Wonders 3 is one thing above all: an ingenious turn-based strategy game in fantasy style. Probably the only of its genre that reaches as high standards in gameplay. There are, however, on closer inspection some shortcomings.

Fans of the series have feverishly waiting for the new edition. Age of Wonders 2 has already tied up a large player community and was traded in relevant circles as the top game this Settings. In fact, the mixture of fantasy, lap and strategic and tactical management of this genre is rare. Also, I have spent many hours with the precursor titles and could according to the principle "one lap still" hardly convey back to reality. The addictive predecessor was immense. If this is after all these years on AoW 3 to?

AoW 3 also binds very quickly. Already in the initial menu, everything seems to be quite clear. It does not require a lengthy tutorial and no extensive explanations to understand the gameplay. After a few rounds you get the impression to understand the game well, as all menu items and also the Reich administration are easy to understand. A big plus for the game. It organized his armies, begins to expand the first city slowly and explored the environment. The first tactical battles perform quite well with the control of an army, though the game progresses increasingly more tactical finesse are required. Nevertheless teach a first error still comparatively lightweight opponents quickly the basic principles of tactical combat.

In the strategy card also attract independent fractions its rather small armies through the countryside. Although this is not an issue for an increasingly experienced army of your own hero, but can result in unprotected cities quickly once to a nasty surprise. After a while one comes then also to a major fraction, the one often straight away declared war. This attitude is so far not always understood, and opposing heroes with a similar ethical alignment grab the same once the wooden club. On the other hand, can this condition even at higher levels immediately by an offer of peace and consequently thwart even an alliance. The diplomacy mode is generally so well-intentioned, in its execution but little comprehensible and in principle so seen almost dispensable. If, then, the "Alliance victory" option on the Home screen one, you also need to lower levels only detect all main opponents and has the "total victory" then quasi already in the bag. The ethical orientation of "absolute evil" to "infinitely good" here does not have any appreciable impact on diplomatic negotiations.

AoW 3 makes far really fun, as you will not be overwhelmed with micromanagement, but can concentrate on the important strategic decisions. There is no control system, no city-specific regulator for research, money or military but simply extensions inside and outside the city, each certain advantages (production, gold, etc.) offer. Often the question arises whether the natural development of the city will include (up to the metropolis of a small community) areas of interest yet, or if the impact area can be increased quickly by setting up an outpost by a builder.

In summary, we can state that AoW has 3 made a lot more right than wrong. Man likes to play several games, slowly increasing the difficulty and is thus also gradually familiar with strategic and tactical principles, and learn the magic system better acquainted. For all fans of this genre, the game is actually highly recommended, apart from some discrepancies.