SEGA of Europe and Creative Assembly have dropped a developer deep dive video and blog, pulling the curtain back on the Hittite factions in Total War: PHARAOH. Available for pre-order on the Total War: PHARAOH store or Steam, early adopters can snag some neat bonuses, including an Early Access Weekend and cosmetic packs.
Early Access Weekend Deets: Taste the Bronze Age
Starting from Friday, September 29th, to Monday, October 2nd, gamers can set foot in Ancient Egypt on Steam. The spotlight shines on Ramesses and Irsu, giving players 60 turns of strategic warfare with limitless replays within this period.
Anatolia in Turmoil: Blood or Ambition?
Anatolia’s Hittite Empire is tearing at the seams, consumed by civil war and a family feud between two cousins. Players must choose between Suppiluliuma, the Defender, or Kurunta, the Usurper. Will you go defensive and rebuild the kingdom or choose the path of conquest and subterfuge?
A Wall of Nigh Impenetrable Power: Embrace the Storm
The Hittite military is not to be trifled with. Specializing in heavy units and fighting in adverse weather conditions like heavy rains and fogs, they’re the bulldozers of the Bronze Age. Look out for traits like Mistwalker and Storm Warrior that can give you an upper hand in specific conditions.
Leaders in Contrast: Suppiluliuma and Kurunta
Both leaders have similar goals but differ significantly in methods and ethics. Suppiluliuma, located in the capital Hattusa, focuses on rebuilding and defending, with unique buildings aimed at increasing happiness and morale. On the other hand, Kurunta, ruling from Tarhuntassa, embraces his hunter mindset to debuff and undermine enemies, preparing them for the kill.
Suppiluliuma: The King’s Fortress
Suppiluliuma’s Faction Commands include increasing army replenishment and workforce growth. His support buildings include the Safe Haven and Garrison Quarters, designed to make life better for his citizens and strengthen his armies.
Kurunta: Hunter or Hunted?
Contrary to his cousin, Kurunta doesn’t play by the rules. His unique buildings, including the Military Sabotage Camp and Mercenary Centre, focus on weakening enemies while empowering his armies, often at the cost of influence. When activated, his Faction Commands ramp up income from Razing but make colonization a no-go.
Battle Elements: Know Your Ground
Hittite forces must combat not just enemies but also the elements. From torrential rains to fog, Hittites have a trait advantage. Lighter armoured units like the Kaskian and Phyrigian tribes are capable raiders, disrupting enemy ranks and setting the stage for the heavily armored units to finish the job.
Unique Faction Units: Diversity in Warfare
While Suppiluliuma’s units are defensive powerhouses, Kurunta’s forces bring versatility to the table. From the spear chariots of Suppiluliuma to the raiding abilities of Kurunta’s Kaskian Warriors, each leader offers a unique flavor to the gameplay.
Choose your leader wisely, for the fate of the Hittite Empire hangs in the balance. Will you stand by Suppiluliuma to rebuild, or will you seize the throne with Kurunta? The choice is yours, gamers.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows
