Anno 1800 for PlayStation 5

The massive city-building RTS

Anno 1800 is a premium strategy game from Ubisoft, set in the titular century. In this expansive real-time strategy experience that combines resource management with city-building elements. As the Industrial Revolution begins, it is up to you to establish the next world power. It features vivid visualizations of cities inspired by the major locations of the time, plus a wide range of technologies and game mechanics to master.

In terms of versatility, Anno 1800 is comparable to games like Civilization VI, although it features more realistic graphics. You can also check out Stranded: Alien Dawn for a more combat-based RTS.

Lead the Industrial Revolution

Anno 1800 is the seventh main entry in the Anno series of strategy games, focusing on the Industrial Revolution. Like other historical entries in the franchise, it heavily emphasizes city-building and ocean warfare. In terms of gameplay, this allows for various strategies and win scenarios. While it doesn’t end in the traditional RTS sense, you can pursue various methods such as conquest or economic and cultural dominance.

Visually, it goes for a more realistic depiction of the cities. While it mostly features Victorian Era architecture, you will also find other building designs based on the nation you’re playing as. Even the mountains and seasides are rendered with breathtaking detail, giving additional incentive to your city-building decisions. Paired with a soundtrack that captures both the time period and the culture, this can lead to some therapeutic gaming sessions.

As it focuses on the city-building experience, expect this game to require a certain level of suspension of disbelief. Since the period was one of rapid expansion and colonialism, the social impact of the period is not really taken into consideration. Additionally, it is more complicated than other RTS games. The UI can take a while to get used to and it involves more mechanics to consider.

Enjoy Gothic designs with the Eldritch Pack

To embody the spirit of Halloween in this real-time strategy classic, Anno 1800 formally released the Eldritch Pack Cosmetic DLC, containing a lot of designs, content, and locations inspired by Gothic architecture. Starting with the Forgotten Abbey: a lost ruin filled with overgrowth, creating a classic yet unsettling feel. Additionally, players get to see new Gothic status, particularly gargoyles. You can now decorate your buildings with various imposing statues, such as the Statue of Lady Morningstar.

Certain buildings also get a makeover in this DLC. For example, the Worker and Artisan residents look as much as they do in the base version, except for the addition of ghosts roaming through their halls and windows. Additionally, the Hospital gets minor design tweaks that make it more imposing. Even new tree models help round up the new atmosphere this DLC is going for, making it a fun addition to any game ghosts.

Enjoy a complex yet realistic city-builder

If you’re looking for a detailed city building experience that is rewarded by some visually impressive city layouts and landscapes, Anno 1800 is the game for you. It gives players a glimpse into the global race at the turn of the Industrial Revolution, plus the strategic flexibility to pursue one of multiple gameplay possibilities. Granted, the learning curve is steep but is definitely worth the effort.