Rise & Fall: Civilizations at War is a real-time strategy video game released in 2006 for Windows; it was developed by Stainless Steel Studios in collaboration with Midway Games San Diego and published by Midway. Its gameplay combines army management, territorial conquest, and base building with a feature rarely seen in the genre: the ability to directly control specific heroes from a third- or first-person perspective.
Set in the first millennium BC, the game allows players to lead four great civilizations: Persia, Greece, Egypt, and Rome. Each features its own unique units, strongholds, and military style, adding variety to battles and encouraging experimentation with different strategies. In total, the campaign includes over eighty unique units—ranging from infantry, archers, and cavalry to specialized troops capable of turning the tide of a battle.
The defining feature of Rise & Fall emerges when the player takes control of a hero. These figu...
Rise & Fall: Civilizations at War is a real-time strategy video game released in 2006 for Windows; it was developed by Stainless Steel Studios in collaboration with Midway Games San Diego and published by Midway. Its gameplay combines army management, territorial conquest, and base building with a feature rarely seen in the genre: the ability to directly control specific heroes from a third- or first-person perspective.
Set in the first millennium BC, the game allows players to lead four great civilizations: Persia, Greece, Egypt, and Rome. Each features its own unique units, strongholds, and military style, adding variety to battles and encouraging experimentation with different strategies. In total, the campaign includes over eighty unique units—ranging from infantry, archers, and cavalry to specialized troops capable of turning the tide of a battle.
The defining feature of Rise & Fall emerges when the player takes control of a hero. These figures can fight directly on the battlefield, cut through enemy lines, and utilize special abilities to boost their troops' effectiveness. There are eight heroes available, though only one can be acquired per match—a choice that requires carefully weighing their capabilities and how well they complement the chosen army.
The game features two main campaigns. One revolves around the conquests of Alexander the Great, while the other presents a fictional story centered on the liberation of Egypt led by Cleopatra. Both offer scenarios inspired by ancient conflicts and cultures, blending strategic objectives with large-scale combat.
Thanks to this blend of classic strategy and direct action, Rise & Fall: Civilizations at War aims to deliver a more dynamic experience than other historical strategy titles. Players must manage resources, construct buildings, recruit units, and coordinate offensives, yet they can also intervene personally during pivotal moments. The result is an ambitious and unique offering, particularly appealing to those who enjoy ancient history, massive battles, and games that combine tactical planning with frontline action.
