So, you fancy yourself a Caesar? Ubisoft has just revealed the first proper look at Anno 117: Pax Romana, and let’s just say—it’s not just roads and aqueducts anymore. This isn’t your standard “click and build” city sim. No, this is an imperial drama set in togas, sandals, and a disturbingly high tax rate.

“You’re The Governor Now, Mate”

Set at the height of Rome’s concrete empire, you’re plopped into the sandals of a newly appointed governor, hand-picked by the Emperor (likely because you owe him money or a favour). Your job? Civilise the uncivilised. Whether it’s the polished piazzas of Latium or the muddy, Celt-filled wetlands of Albion (where the locals barely understand Latin, let alone taxes), it’s up to you to whip them into shape—or not.

Anno 117 tasks you with building, managing, and occasionally oppressing entire provinces, with a hefty Roman twist. Want to buddy up with neighbouring governors through polite trade agreements and diplomatic charm? Go ahead. Want to declare your independence and give the Emperor the metaphorical finger? Also an option—but don’t expect him to send you a fruit basket.

Peace Through Bread or Blood? You Decide.

Every decision you make—down to which gods you build temples for—shapes your empire. Will your cities be gleaming marvels of Roman engineering or muddy backwaters filled with druidic chants and sheep worship? Will your people revere you as a wise statesman or quietly plot your assassination behind the bathhouse?

You’re also given full control over your imperial approach: crush resistance with modular naval and land battles, or win hearts with grain subsidies and well-placed amphitheatres. But remember, the Emperor has eyes everywhere, and disobedience may land you in a colosseum wearing nothing but a loincloth and fear.

This Ain’t Just Another City Builder

Ubisoft Mainz claims this is their biggest and boldest Anno yet—and frankly, we believe them. You’ll be able to build across multiple provinces, shaping cities that actually feel alive. We’re talking kids chasing dogs, massive colosseum spectacles, and a map so expansive you’ll wonder if Caesar personally requested it. Everything from the architecture to the religion is in your hands, right down to how Roman your Romans actually are.

And the visuals? The graphical fidelity looks sharper than a Gladius. You’ll want to pause every five minutes just to admire your own oppressive imperial splendour.

Coming to Nearly Everything (Except Your Toaster)

Anno 117: Pax Romana drops in Winter 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X | S, Amazon Luna, and PC via Steam, Epic Games Store, and Ubisoft Connect. It supports cross-play and cross-progression, meaning your empire can follow you wherever you go—be it your gaming throne or the office computer you definitely shouldn’t be playing it on.