Anno 2070

Anno 2070 comes from a franchise that continually has ups and downs. Building a city simulator is hard enough, but taking it into the future and trying to make it supremely immersive is a challenge in its own right. Some games from the series have been fantastic; others definitely could have used improvement. However, we're still determined to see where this near-future city sim stands.

Anno 2070 takes the beloved city-building series into the future, presenting players with a captivating blend of strategy, sustainability, and complex resource management. Set against climate change and rising sea levels, Anno 2070 challenges players to build and sustain thriving civilizations in a visually stunning and socially conscious world.

The Year is 2070

The core gameplay of Anno 2070 remains true to the series' roots, offering a compelling mix of city-building, resource management, and diplomacy. The game introduces a two-faction system, allowing players to choose between the Tycoons, who focus on industrial expansion, and the Ecos, who prioritize environmental sustainability. This dual-faction approach adds depth and replayability, as players can explore different playstyles and storylines.

One of the standout features of Anno 2070 is its dynamic and visually striking game world. The futuristic setting allows for a unique aesthetic, blending sleek, high-tech designs with eco-friendly elements. The attention to detail in city and building design contributes to an immersive experience, with the game's visuals evolving as players progress through various technological eras.

Resource management is crucial to Anno 2070, requiring players to balance production, consumption, and environmental impact carefully. Introducing underwater buildings adds an extra layer of complexity as players expand their cities both above and below the water's surface. The interconnectedness of these systems provides a satisfying challenge for players who enjoy strategic thinking and planning.

However, while intriguing, balancing production, consumption, and environmental impact often felt more like a daunting puzzle than an enjoyable gameplay experience. The addition of underwater buildings further increased the complexity, making it harder to manage and expand cities efficiently. Overall, the complexities you'll often stumble upon hinder entertainment.

Near-Future Nihilist

While Anno 2070 is a strong entry in the series, it's not without its challenges. Some players may find the learning curve steep, especially for newcomers to the Anno franchise. Additionally, the always-online requirement for certain features may be a drawback for those who prefer a more offline-focused experience. It doesn't fall in disaster launches like the rebooted SimCity. Still, it doesn't deliver on the scale we'd hoped for.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• A well-thought-out near-future city builder
• Striking visuals bringing cities to life
• Great for those who enjoy resource management titles

Cons:

• It feels unnecessarily complex at specific points
• The gameplay loop is repetitive
• Accessing the game from the launcher is challenging