Europa Universalis vs Sparta: War of Empires
Europa Universalis
Europa Universalis is a historical real-time grand strategy game that includes all aspects of world history in the Early Modern Europe era, a period of time between the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Due to the game's meticulous need to be accurate in its historical accounts (period monarchs, known military leaders, and technological advancements), the game can, in some way, be doubled as an educational game since you can learn quite a lot simply by playing it.That said, the gameplay in Europa Universalis is just incredible for its time. The game is played on a huge world map that is divided into around 1,500 provinces where you can literally govern your nation the way you like. You can get involved in your nation's colonization efforts, explore new lands, trade with neighboring countries, wage war when they renegade on that very trade deal, spread the religion you've adopted far and wide, and of course, navigate the tricky political waters of diplomacy.
Not to mention, instead of using a turn-based format, the game has opted for a pauseable real-time format, so you can pause the game, issues orders and plan out strategies, before unpausing the game and let the world events play out. There are even tons of historically-based missions and events which may affect the world based on your actions and decisions.
When it comes to grand strategy games, there are only a handful that truly embodies the genre, and obviously, Europa Universalis is one of them. However, being the original game in the franchise, the graphics might be a bit worn for wear, but if you don't really mind, you can definitely pick this game up from GoG.com.
Sparta: War of Empires
Sparta: War of Empires is perhaps one of Plarium’s most successful MMO strategy games. In this game, you’ll get to take on Xerxes and the Persian Empire and leave your mark among the greatest heroes in Hellas! Assume your role as the Archon of a growing city-state and develop it into the mighty empire it can become. Amass your armies and send them to crush your enemies, be it a fellow player or the Persians themselves. Forge alliances with your neighbors, but be careful – you’ll need all your wits and military strength to ensure they won’t stab you in the back when you need their help the most.With quality and engaging gameplay, superb music and graphics, as well as a strong community of players who will go to great lengths to hold the frontlines against the Persians, Sparta: War of Empire is definitely the sort of MMO game that you can fully immerse yourself in.