If you’ve ever dreamed of meeting Cleopatra and vying for her favor, this game offers that and more.
Designed by Kellyn Beck, the mastermind behind the classic Defender of the Crown, Centurion prioritizes entertainment over historical accuracy, making it a thrilling gaming experience.
Centurion: Defender of Rome game review
This turn-based strategy video game, featuring real-time battles, was crafted by Kellyn Beck and Bits of Magic and published by Electronic Arts. Its journey began in 1990 when it was first released for MS-DOS. Later, in 1991, Centurion made its way to the Amiga and the Sega Genesis.
The game shares its spirit with Beck’s earlier masterpiece, Defender of the Crown (1987).
Jump into the Roman World
Step into the shoes of a Roman centurion in 275 BC, a pivotal moment in Ancient Rome.
You’ll start with the humble task of leading a single legion. Your ultimate ambition? To rise through the ranks and become a Caesar, a journey guided by a mix of military conquests and mastering the art of “Bread and Circuses.”
The Heart of Centurion: Strategic Gameplay
The core of Centurion lies in its strategic planning, world management, and thrilling real-time battles. As the leader of the Roman army, you’ll engage in diplomatic endeavors, confront rebellions, and expand your empire.
However, be prepared for intense real-time battles against foes such as the Celts, Carthaginians, and Parthians. Additionally, Centurion offers diverse activities, including gladiatorial combat, chariot racing in the Circus Maximus, and naval warfare.
You can even enter into diplomatic alliances and, if successful, win the favor of Queen Cleopatra.
The Art of Strategic Planning
Strategic planning and diplomacy are paramount in Centurion. Starting with just one territory (Italy), your goal is to conquer additional lands inhabited by various intelligent civilizations. Diplomacy plays a pivotal role, and you’ll encounter both aggressive barbarians and shrewd diplomats.
Every interaction may lead to alliances or ultimatums, shaping your path to dominance. While diplomacy is an option, military conquest remains a formidable strategy.
A Range of Challenges and Opportunities
The game’s difficulty level is initially set to the easiest, making it accessible for newcomers. However, as you progress to higher difficulties, the game becomes notably challenging, requiring intricate strategies.
Lead your Roman legion to victory, secure diplomatic alliances, and master the art of war in Centurion: Defender of Rome
Battles occur in real-time and demand quick thinking and effective command. You’ll select formations and tactics, but the absence of unit customization limits flexibility.
The Game’s Diverse Mini-Games
Centurion goes beyond its core gameplay with various engaging mini-games. Take part in gladiatorial combat, where you can even choose combatants and place bets. The game delves deep by allowing you to control a gladiator yourself.
Additionally, you can indulge in challenging Roman chariot races, although mastering them can be quite the task. These mini-games add an extra layer of excitement to your Roman adventure.
Visual Grandeur
Centurion boasts stunning graphics that capture the essence of Ancient Rome. The changing seasons and varied terrains reflect the evolving challenges you’ll face.
While the overall color palette might be subdued, the attention to detail in the game’s visuals is commendable.
Conclusion
Centurion: Defender of Rome offers a nice blend of strategy, adventure, and historical charm. While it may not be the most historically accurate representation of Ancient Rome, it excels in delivering an engaging and entertaining gaming experience. Prepare to conquer lands, form alliances, and engage in thrilling battles as you ascend the ranks of the Roman Empire.
Play Centurion Online
Now you can play Defender of Rome online, in a web browser, for free!
Play Centurion online today and become the Caesar you aspire to be.