With gorgeous, detailed graphics and a simple interface, 1701 A.D. is an empire builder that's a pleasure to play.
1701 A.D. is the latest in the series of historical empire-building games from Aspyr Media that includes 1503 A.D and 1602 A.D. With gorgeous, detailed graphics and a simple interface, this PC simulation game is a pleasure to play. The game originated in Germany, under the name Anno 1701.
Gameplay
The basic premise of 1701 A.D. is that the Queen has sent you to establish a series of settlements in a cluster of semi-occupied islands. Build housing, grow essential crops, obtain resources, and develop trade relationships with other settlements. Meet your colonists’ needs and they will upgrade their housing over time. Fight for your right to access required resources and defend your settlements from pirates.
Game controls are, for the most part, easily accessible and simple to understand. There are some quirks, such as the inability to build a series of houses using the housing tool (build one house, re-select, build another house, etc.). The built-in ANNO-pedia has excellent information about most of the events that arise during gameplay, but can be tricky to navigate. This may be due to the game’s German origins, which also result in some less-than-perfect English translation.
During Continuous Play games, players have control over a number of game variables including map size, computer opponents, and win conditions. This allows peace lovers to build with minimal warfare, and war strategists to battle it out. Build a massive trade empire, a huge settlement, or an amazing castle. A built-in world editor would have brought 1701 A.D. to the next level, but will be available in an upcoming expansion pack.
Scenarios
1701 A.D. comes with a series of built-in scenarios of increasing difficulty. The scenarios may be thought of as advanced tutorials as each one comes with a “guide” who suggests your next course of action as you progress. For more experienced player, this can be an annoyance, but it is helpful for newer players. Each scenario provides unique challenges that aren’t typically found in normal gameplay, but they may leave you wanting more. Even so, they include a wide range of empire-building skills from city planning to trade to war so there is something for everyone.
Multiplayer
Up to 4 players may join in a multiplayer game, but each user must have their own DVD with a distinct serial number. Game options are the same as Continuous Play mode and players can compete or cooperate to build their empires.
Technical Requirements
With stunning visuals, it’s hardly surprising that the technical requirements for 1701 are a bit steep. Operating systems prior to Windows XP/2000 are not supported and video cards must support 3D hardware acceleration. Take a moment to check your PC against the minimum requirements as the game will not run if they aren’t met. Even with the basics, things can get choppy as the game progresses.
Summary
Despite some quirky tools and high end technical requirements, 1701 A.D. is a triumph in the genre. The ease of gameplay, along with stunning graphics, make up for any shortcomings. This is a must-have addition for empire/city-building fans.
