Have You Heard of Humankind? A Turn-Based Historical Strategy Game That Will Rewrite History!

Humankind, developed by Amplitude Studios and published by Sega, is a 4X (explore, expand, exploit, exterminate) turn-based strategy game that throws you into the crucible of history. Forget about linear campaigns or pre-determined destinies; in Humankind, you are tasked with guiding a civilization from the Neolithic era all the way to the modern age, making crucial decisions along the way that will shape your legacy.

Think of it like Civilization’s cooler, more nuanced cousin. While Civilization focuses on specific civilizations and their predetermined paths, Humankind allows you to mix and match cultures throughout history. Imagine building a civilization that starts as the Egyptians, transitions into the Greeks for their cultural prowess, then embraces the industrial might of the British Empire before finally adopting the technological advancements of modern Japan. The possibilities are practically endless, allowing for truly unique civilizations and playstyles.

Crafting Your Legacy: Culture, Fame, and Victory Conditions

The heart of Humankind lies in its innovative culture system. Each era presents you with a choice between different cultures, each boasting its own unique bonuses, units, buildings, and civic abilities. You are not locked into one specific path; instead, your civilization evolves based on the choices you make. Do you prioritize expansion and military might? Embrace the Romans or Mongols for their dominance on the battlefield. Are you a master diplomat seeking peace and prosperity? Perhaps the Phoenicians or the Greeks will suit your style.

Humankind eschews traditional victory conditions like domination or technological superiority in favor of a more nuanced system: Fame. Accumulating Fame points is the ultimate goal, and it’s achieved through a variety of avenues. Successfully conquering cities, advancing scientific knowledge, establishing thriving trade networks, building awe-inspiring wonders, and even spreading your culture and religion all contribute to your overall Fame score.

But beware! Other civilizations are vying for the same glory. Engaging in diplomacy, forging alliances, and navigating complex political landscapes is crucial for survival and success. Humankind beautifully simulates the ebb and flow of international relations, where trust can be as valuable as a well-trained army.

The Map is Your Canvas: Exploration and Territorial Control

Exploration plays a pivotal role in Humankind. Discovering new lands, resources, and even ancient wonders unlocks opportunities for expansion and development.

Here’s what the exploration phase entails:

• Terrain Variety: From sprawling plains to dense forests and towering mountains, Humankind’s maps offer a diverse range of environments to explore and exploit.
• Strategic Resources: Unearthing strategic resources like iron, coal, or oil can provide vital advantages for military production, infrastructure development, or scientific advancements.

The game encourages strategic placement of your cities based on the surrounding terrain and resource availability. Each city specializes in different areas depending on its location, fostering diverse economic and cultural hubs across your empire.

Embracing the Future: Technological Advancement and Societal Evolution

Humankind meticulously simulates technological advancement through a comprehensive technology tree. Researching new technologies unlocks powerful units, buildings, and civic options. You can focus on specific branches of knowledge, tailoring your civilization’s development to suit your chosen path.

But Humankind goes beyond mere technological progress; it delves into the social and cultural evolution of your civilization. As you advance through the eras, you’ll encounter pivotal decisions that shape the values and beliefs of your people:

• Civic Options: These choices influence your government structure, social policies, and religious practices.
• Ethics: Align yourself with specific ethical stances, each offering unique bonuses and drawbacks.

The choices you make ripple through time, shaping the identity and trajectory of your civilization.

Production Features: A Feast for the Senses

Humankind boasts stunning graphics and a captivating soundtrack that immerse you in the world of history.

Here are some notable production features:

The game is optimized for both single-player and multiplayer experiences. Challenge your friends online or compete against AI opponents in epic historical battles.

A Worthy Contender in the Strategy Genre

Humankind offers a fresh and innovative take on the 4X genre. Its emphasis on cultural evolution, dynamic diplomacy, and open-ended gameplay sets it apart from its contemporaries. With its intricate mechanics, stunning visuals, and captivating soundtrack, Humankind is sure to provide countless hours of strategic pleasure for history buffs and strategy enthusiasts alike.