By Phil Brown KGK
I have been part of the Ara: History Untold insider program for some time and as a huge fan of strategy gaming I have found Ara to be both beautiful and challenging and a world where your choices have real time effects.
A New Map to Explore
The 4X strategy genre has long been dominated by titles that stick to familiar formulas—hex-based maps, structured tech trees, and predictable turn-based gameplay. But Ara: History Untold, developed by Oxide Games and Xbox Game Studios, flips the script. It invites players to traverse a world of irregular regions, mimicking the fluid borders of ancient maps. Here, history isn't confined to grids but flows like rivers through time, offering a dynamic and organic approach to world-building.
Gameplay with a Difference
One of Ara’s standout features is its simultaneous turn system. In contrast to the traditional back-and-forth of most 4X games, nations act concurrently, creating a game of prediction and strategy. It’s as if the globe’s most powerful leaders are seated around the same table, making moves at the same moment. Guessing your rivals' next step is as crucial as planning your own—a tactical dance of anticipation.
Forget about tech trees and endless min-maxing. Ara introduces a prestige-based victory system where your achievements matter more than your tech path. Whether you’re constructing monumental wonders or achieving cultural breakthroughs, success here feels broad and flexible. It’s not just about advancing your military or economy—it’s about reshaping civilization. Think of it like claiming both the Great Library and the coziest armchair in history.
A Fresh Historical Perspective
At the core of Ara is the philosophy of the “three As”—accuracy, accessibility, and advocacy. Spearheaded by historian and narrative designer Grace Rojas, the game is committed to representing historical cultures with authenticity, making the experience both engaging and educational. Accuracy goes beyond surface-level references; it’s about grounding players in real historical contexts while allowing them to reshape history in their own image.
But Ara doesn’t expect players to be history buffs. Accessibility is a key focus, ensuring that anyone can dive in and enjoy the game without needing an academic background. The goal is to immerse players in the past while keeping the barriers to entry low.
Finally, the game advocates for inclusivity by representing various cultures with respect and care, ensuring players from all backgrounds can find a piece of themselves in the grand tapestry of history. This commitment to advocacy is reinforced by extensive player feedback—history enthusiasts have been involved in testing and refining the game’s historical accuracy.
Optimism in the Past and Present
Unlike many historical games that dive into every detail of past conflicts, Ara takes a more optimistic approach. It’s not about dwelling on the past's darkest moments; it’s about celebrating humanity’s potential for growth, collaboration, and innovation. In this world, the Renaissance is more than an artistic era—it’s a spirit of collective progress, where building windmills and forging peaceful alliances are as important as military conquests.
Whether you’re leading an empire, navigating complex diplomacy, or simply exploring the intricate layers of time, Ara makes you feel like you're part of a grand narrative. It's not just about rewriting history—it's about envisioning a future shaped by the choices you make.
So, grab your virtual map and step into a game where the past is alive, the future is unwritten, and every decision counts. Because in Ara: History Untold, you’re not just playing a game—you’re making history.
Available on Xbox and PC through Games Pass day one 24th September 2024
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