Anno 2070 PC Game Review

Introduction

Released in November 2011 by Blue Byte and published by Ubisoft, Anno 2070 is a city-building real-time strategy game that represents a significant departure from its predecessors in the Anno series. While earlier entries in the series focused on historical settings, Anno 2070 transports players to a futuristic world grappling with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation. The game introduces new mechanics, factions, and challenges, offering a fresh and engaging experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

Setting and Story

A Future Shaped by Climate Change

Anno 2070 is set in a near-future world where rising sea levels have drastically altered the geography of the planet. This dystopian vision serves as the backdrop for the game’s city-building and resource management mechanics. The story revolves around humanity’s efforts to adapt and thrive in this new environment, balancing technological advancement with environmental sustainability.

Factions and Their Philosophies

The game features three primary factions, each with its own unique philosophy and gameplay style:

• The Eden Initiative (Ecos): Focused on sustainability and environmental preservation, the Ecos prioritize clean energy and eco-friendly technologies. Their cities are characterized by green spaces, renewable energy sources, and a harmonious relationship with nature.
• Global Trust (Tycoons): Representing industrial might and economic efficiency, the Tycoons prioritize rapid expansion and resource extraction. Their cities are sprawling, densely populated, and heavily reliant on fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources.
• S.A.A.T. (Techs): A faction of scientists and engineers, the Techs pursue advanced technologies and scientific research. They excel in developing cutting-edge infrastructure and specialized buildings, often pushing the boundaries of what is technologically possible.

Each faction offers a distinct playstyle and aesthetic, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies and approaches to city-building.

Gameplay Mechanics

City Building and Resource Management

At its core, Anno 2070 is a city-building game that requires players to balance various resources, manage infrastructure, and ensure the well-being of their citizens. Key gameplay elements include:

• Resource Gathering: Players must harvest a variety of resources, such as food, energy, and building materials. These resources are essential for constructing buildings, maintaining infrastructure, and supporting the population.
• Production Chains: Efficiently managing production chains is crucial for success. Players need to set up industries that process raw materials into finished goods, which can then be used to meet the needs of their citizens or traded with other factions.
• City Planning: Thoughtful city planning is essential for optimizing resource usage and ensuring the happiness of the population. Players must consider factors like building placement, transportation networks, and energy distribution.

Environmental Mechanics

Anno 2070 introduces a unique environmental mechanic that reflects the game’s futuristic setting and themes. Players must balance their industrial activities with environmental sustainability. Key aspects include:

• Eco Balance: Each island has an Eco Balance rating that affects the productivity and health of the population. Positive Eco Balance can be achieved through green technologies and eco-friendly buildings, while negative Eco Balance results from pollution and resource depletion.
• Climate Change: The game dynamically simulates the impact of climate change, affecting sea levels, weather patterns, and resource availability. Players must adapt to these changes and mitigate their effects through strategic planning and technological innovation.

Technological Advancement

Technological progress is a central theme in Anno 2070. Players can research new technologies, upgrade existing buildings, and unlock advanced infrastructure. The Tech faction, in particular, offers a wide array of scientific advancements that can significantly enhance a city’s efficiency and capabilities.

Graphics and Sound

Visuals

Anno 2070 features impressive graphics that bring its futuristic world to life. The game’s visuals are characterized by detailed cityscapes, diverse environments, and dynamic weather effects. Each faction has a distinct architectural style, from the sleek and eco-friendly designs of the Ecos to the industrial and utilitarian structures of the Tycoons. The game’s vibrant and dynamic visuals contribute to an immersive experience, making the cities feel alive and responsive to the player’s actions.

Sound Design

The sound design in Anno 2070 complements its visual presentation, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. The soundtrack features a mix of ambient music and thematic scores that reflect the game’s futuristic setting. Sound effects, such as the hum of machinery, the chatter of citizens, and the sounds of nature, add depth and realism to the game world. The voice acting for faction leaders and advisors is well-executed, providing personality and context to the game’s narrative.

Multiplayer and Replayability

Multiplayer Mode

Anno 2070 includes a robust multiplayer mode that allows players to collaborate or compete with others online. Players can join forces to build sprawling metropolises, trade resources, and tackle cooperative missions. Alternatively, competitive multiplayer offers a challenging experience where players vie for control of resources and territory, testing their strategic and management skills against human opponents.

Replay Value

The game’s replay value is enhanced by its diverse factions, dynamic environment, and deep gameplay mechanics. Each faction offers a unique experience, encouraging players to explore different strategies and playstyles. The dynamic environmental mechanics and technological progression ensure that no two playthroughs are exactly alike. Additionally, the game features a variety of scenarios and challenges that provide additional objectives and goals, extending the game’s longevity.

Criticisms and Areas for Improvement

While Anno 2070 has been well-received, it is not without its criticisms. Some common points of feedback include:

• Complexity: The game’s depth and complexity can be overwhelming for new players. A more comprehensive tutorial and gradual introduction to advanced mechanics could help ease the learning curve.
• Resource Management: The intricate resource management system, while engaging, can become cumbersome at times. Streamlining certain aspects of resource management could improve the overall gameplay experience.
• Performance Issues: Some players have reported performance issues, particularly with larger cities and complex production chains. Optimization improvements could enhance the game’s performance and stability.

Conclusion

Anno 2070 is a standout entry in the Anno series, offering a rich and engaging city-building experience set in a meticulously crafted futuristic world. The game’s innovative environmental mechanics, diverse factions, and deep gameplay systems provide endless opportunities for strategic planning and creativity. While it has its challenges, particularly in terms of complexity and resource management, Anno 2070 remains a compelling and rewarding game for fans of the genre. Its blend of technological advancement, environmental stewardship, and strategic city-building ensures that it remains a timeless classic in the realm of real-time strategy games.