A true, underrated classic. The makers of the "Stronghold" series could learn a thing or two from this 1996 g
The game simulates, with great care taken to follow historical accuracy, the bloody campaign and sieges of middle ages. From the opening movie, we learn that the king is dead without a successor, and now the strongest nobles of England are preparing to battle for the crown.
You assume the role of one of these nobles, and battle through a custom created game or through the game’s campaign. The main map is richly detailed for its time (remember; this is 1996!) and it is often hard to believe the game only utilizes 256 colors. The music, sounds, video, and voice over effects in the game are all very well done and give the game a very authentic look and feel. Turns are spent planting grain, raising cows, mining stone and iron, harvesting lumber, making weapons, and building castles. Each game turn represents 1 season, and great care must be taken in planning your farming activities as weather does play a big role in Lords 2. Battles take place in real time, and are seen through a top-down view and work much like Warcraft II.
Castles are very important in your struggle for the crown. Without these strong, defensive structures, enemy armies can capture your county towns with ease. Even a simple wooden palisade will delay the troops of another lord, at least for awhile. As the game progresses however, you will want to work your way towards building stone and royal castles to ensure survival.
Even though the game features multiplayer support, you will get just as much enjoyment out the game by playing against the computer. Your opposition comes in the form of four different AI personalities, each with their strengths and weaknesses: The Knight favors aggressive tactics, often starving his own population to arm his troops. He’s a cross between Prince Charles and Orlando Bloom. Eeew…
The Baron relies on a very slow and methodical build up to establish his resources before entering into the battle field. If you want his help, it’s going to cost you.
The Countess uses diplomacy as a ruse until she finds a weak spot in her opponent’s defenses. Never trust her.
The Bishop, easily the hardest and most competent of the AI players, makes very large armies and will only attack another player if he is currently leading. He will also never help you if you are allied with him and in need of assistance. Jerk.
Each AI personality is portrayed by a professional voice actor. The fact that the computer can make and break alliances, insult, and threaten you is a very nice added touch. If you want to have some real fun, send the Knight a few insults and watch the fireworks fly!
The only bad thing about Lords of the Realm II is that it is OLD. You are more than likely going to have trouble finding a copy, and when you do, chances are that you will have compatibility issues. But no game to date, not even Stronghold, can take the crown from Lords 2 as the most complete and historically accurate Medieval Warfare game of all time!