The newly announced F2P MOBA Total War: Arena is less DOTA and more MOBA, according to its Lead Designer. Creative Assembly goes to great lengths assuring players the experience is true to what they’ve come to expect from Total War, and not aping the popular wave of DOTA-like games.
“This is not a MOBA-game,” lead multiplayer designer Gabor Beressy explained following a GDC session. “It’s not a DOTA clone. How do you define a MOBA game? If you just say it’s a multiplayer online battle arena, yes, it is. But it is Total War, so it’s not a DOTA 2 clone. We’re not going to have lanes and creeps and towers.”
Unique Gameplay Mechanics
Total War: Arena aims to blend the strategic depth and historical authenticity of the Total War series with the fast-paced, competitive nature of MOBA games. Unlike traditional MOBAs, which often feature a fantasy setting with heroes, lanes, and minions, Total War: Arena focuses on historical battles and large-scale warfare. Players will command units of soldiers, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, and must use tactical maneuvers to outsmart their opponents.
The game emphasizes teamwork and strategy over individual heroics. Players will need to coordinate with their teammates to control key points on the battlefield, manage resources, and execute complex battle plans. This approach is designed to appeal to fans of the Total War series who enjoy the strategic depth and historical context of the games, as well as to MOBA players looking for a new and unique experience.
Historical Context and Authenticity
One of the standout features of Total War: Arena is its commitment to historical accuracy. The game features a variety of historical factions, each with their own unique units and abilities. Players can choose to command armies from ancient Rome, Greece, and other historical civilizations, each with their own distinct playstyle and strategic options.
For example, Roman legions are known for their discipline and heavy infantry, making them formidable in close combat. Greek armies, on the other hand, might rely more on phalanx formations and ranged units. This diversity adds a layer of depth and replayability to the game, as players can experiment with different factions and strategies to find what works best for them.
The developers have also gone to great lengths to ensure that the game’s units and environments are as historically accurate as possible. This includes detailed models of soldiers and equipment, as well as realistic battlefields based on historical locations. This attention to detail helps to create an immersive experience that feels true to the spirit of the Total War series.
Community and Competitive Play
Total War: Arena is designed to be a highly competitive game, with a strong focus on community and multiplayer interactions. The game features a variety of modes, including ranked matches, casual play, and special events. Players can join clans and participate in clan wars, adding a social element to the game and fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition.
The developers have also promised regular updates and new content to keep the game fresh and engaging. This includes new factions, units, maps, and gameplay features, as well as balance changes and bug fixes based on player feedback. By actively engaging with the community and listening to their input, Creative Assembly hopes to create a game that is both fun and fair for all players.
In conclusion, Total War: Arena is shaping up to be a unique and exciting addition to the MOBA genre. By combining the strategic depth and historical authenticity of the Total War series with the fast-paced, competitive gameplay of MOBAs, Creative Assembly is offering players a fresh and engaging experience. Whether you’re a fan of the Total War series or a MOBA enthusiast looking for something new, Total War: Arena is definitely worth keeping an eye on.
Source Eurogamer
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
