Total War: PHARAOH Review Summary

Excellent graphics and visuals: The game features impressive visuals, detailed animations, and improved graphics. Players appreciate the modern mechanics and the overall aesthetic appeal, including beautiful cities and varied building designs.

Outpost system adds dynamism: The outpost system is a notable addition that adds dynamism and interesting mechanics to the campaign. It encourages robust gameplay and provides potential for strategic depth.

Dynamic weather and battles: Battles are enhanced by dynamic weather and environmental effects, making them visually impressive and strategically interesting. The weather system adds a layer of complexity and realism to the combat.

Historical accuracy and atmosphere: The game is praised for its historical accuracy and detailed atmosphere, which immerses players in the period. The setting and cultural elements are well-researched and compelling.

Large and well-designed map: The game features a large and well-designed map, providing ample space for strategic gameplay and exploration. The map design is appreciated for its detail and variety.

Poor combat system: The combat system is criticized for being boring, poorly designed, and lacking in excitement or enjoyment.

Diplomacy system is flawed: The diplomacy system is described as broken, underdeveloped, shallow, and ineffective.

Interface issues: The user interface is described as too simple, cluttered, confusing, and sometimes eye-straining or ugly.

Limited unit variety and tactical depth: Players frequently mention the lack of cavalry and other unit types, which limits tactical options and makes battles repetitive.

Game feels broken and boring: Many players report that the game feels broken due to bugs, is not fun to play, and lacks engaging content.

Large-scale battles with varied units: The game features large-scale battles focusing on melee foot units, archers, and chariots. However, some players find the battles long and boring, and there is a noted lack of powerful cavalry.

Resource management centrality: Resource management is a significant part of the game, involving multiple resources and trade. It is central due to the scarcity of resources and is intertwined with city-building.

Turn-based strategy with real-time battles: The game combines turn-based strategy with real-time tactical battles, offering a mix of strategic planning and immediate combat.

Diplomacy and strategy mechanics: Diplomacy and faction interactions are key components of the game, requiring players to engage in strategic planning and resource trading.

Similar to Troy gameplay: The gameplay dynamics, combat mechanics, and UI are similar to Total War: Troy, making it familiar to fans of that game.

Frequent crashes and freezes: Many players report that the game frequently crashes or freezes, impacting the overall gaming experience.

Performance issues persist: Players experience poor performance even at low graphics settings, affecting gameplay smoothness.

Language-specific issues: There are reports of issues in non-English languages, such as problems with specific game elements not appearing.

Sound and FPS stuttering: Sound stuttering and FPS drops are noted, particularly during weather changes and in large battles.

Memory leaks reported: There are reports of memory leaks which can degrade performance over time.

Buy on sale for best value: Many players recommend purchasing the game during a sale to get the best value for money. This sentiment is echoed across multiple clusters, emphasizing the game's worth at a discounted price.

Recommended for strategy fans: The game is recommended for fans of strategy games and the Total War series, particularly those interested in historical settings and customization.

Ideal for beginners: The game is considered ideal for beginners in the Total War series due to its user-friendly improvements and accessibility. However, experienced players might find it less appealing.

Positive reception for historical fans: Fans of historical titles and the Bronze Age setting are likely to enjoy the game. It is particularly recommended for those interested in ancient history and historical customization.

Better alternatives available: Some players suggest that there are better alternatives to this game, such as Troy, Rome 2, or Three Kingdoms. These alternatives are often preferred for their gameplay or features.

Monetization: The game is heavily criticized for its monetization practices, particularly regarding the pricing of the base game and its DLCs. Players feel that the content does not justify the cost, leading to a perception of greed and dissatisfaction. The DLC model is also criticized for being exploitative and not providing sufficient value. Overall, the monetization strategy is seen as aggressive and predatory, significantly impacting the user experience negatively.

External guides: The user feedback highlights a strong appreciation for the instructional and educational content provided within the game. The in-game encyclopedia and detailed historical references are noted as significant positive aspects, enhancing the learning experience and overall gameplay.

High initial price: Complaints about the high initial price of the game.

Bulk-delete savegames removed: Users are upset about the removal of the bulk-delete feature for savegames.

Price reduction after boycott: Mentions of a price reduction following a boycott.

Free factions added in January 2024: Announcement of free factions being added to the game in January 2024.

Dynasties feature in Pharaoh: Players are discussing the dynasties feature in Total War: Pharaoh.