Based off the Warhammer tabletop game, Creative Assembly introduces players to their latest Total War installment, Total War: Warhammer 2. The video game is a sequel to last year’s release, Total War: Warhammer, and with already a strong following with the Total War franchise, we can clearly see why gamers continue to invest their hard earn money with the latest title releases.
This is a turn-based strategy title with real-time tactics. Players will set off on their campaign, though the campaign narrative will alter depending on the fraction you start with, in a long battle against hostile opposing threats. If you enjoyed the past installments of Total War then you’ll likely be well in-tuned with how the gameplay mechanics work.
You’ll start on the main map with various tasks and goals to keep in mind all while other factions will be lurking about. Outside of battles, there are certain aspects to keep track of in your faction such as what your main lord, what’s equipped in your arsenal, attracting followers, among other upgrades that flesh out your towns and settlements.
As mentioned earlier, there are several factions to choose from each with their own type of gameplay mechanics and fight styles. Luckily, the developers have included a nicely written guide with each faction from the start to see what the pros and cons may be with any given choice when deciding what faction to play the campaign with.
Where you’ll likely have the most fun with Total War: Warhammer 2 is the actual battles. When entering battles, the game quickly goes into full tactical mode leaving players to decide where to send troops and how to arrange their armies to take down the opposing threat.
Again, depending on the faction you pick will likely determine your battle style. You may go for a brute all force approach on the battlefield, opt to position your armies among the hills or hide a surprise force within the forests, readily available to pounce on the enemy when they near too close.
If you enjoy strategizing your moves and tactical battles, you’re going to have a great time, especially if you plan carefully and build up resources for an attack or siege. This may not be as entertaining for gamers who are looking for quick gameplay sessions as they may find themselves burning out a bit too quickly.
That last statement also rings true for other sections of the game. Take for instances menus, there are a ton of options to run through and if you’re new to the series or game genre, this can be overwhelming at first.
Really, Total War: Warhammer 2 is for gamers who thoroughly enjoy the tactical gameplay and are coming from the past installments. Paying attention to the various resources, upgrades, the opposing faction armies, plotting out their attacks, and carefully executing their goals is rewarding, but will take time and patience.
Thankfully, Creative Assembly did an excellent job at the visuals and audio within the game. Watching massive armies go to battle and hearing the war is spectacular. Likewise, there is an online multiplayer option where you can get a somewhat shorter skirmish match going with friends or other random players online.
All-in-all, Total War: Warhammer 2 is a solid video game title to run with if you’re already familiar with the Total War series. If you’re new to the tactical real-time strategy scene, then this could be an overwhelming title to go for from the start. Expect lengthy gameplay sessions complimented with a truly wonderful visual experience.
Disclosure: A copy of the game was provided for purposes of this review.
