Total War: Next Installment – Strategy Game

The gaming community anticipates the next installment of the Total War series, a franchise celebrated for its historical strategy and grand campaign elements. Creative Assembly, the developer, is rumored to be considering various historical periods and settings for their next project. Fan speculation includes revisiting popular eras like Medieval or exploring new territories. The announcement of the next Total War game is always a major event for strategy game enthusiasts.

Alright, strategy fans, gather ’round! Let’s talk Total War. For years, this series has been the gold standard in strategy gaming, masterfully blending the cerebral turn-based campaign map with the adrenaline-pumping chaos of real-time battles. It’s like chess meets a historical reenactment… with thousands of soldiers. Seriously, who doesn’t get a thrill from commanding legions across ancient battlefields or forging empires through cunning diplomacy?

But let’s be real: the wait between Total War releases can feel like an eternity. The anticipation builds, the rumors swirl, and everyone’s got their own wishlist for the next installment. Will we be marching with Roman legions again? Perhaps clashing swords in medieval Europe? Or maybe even… something completely different?

That’s precisely what we’re here to discuss! We’re diving deep into the possibilities for the next Total War title. From dreaming up potential historical settings that would make any history buff drool to imagining groundbreaking gameplay features that could redefine the series, we’re exploring every angle. So, buckle up, strategists – it’s time to chart the course for Total War‘s future!

Revisiting History: Potential Settings for the Next Total War

Ah, history! A treasure trove of epic battles, cunning leaders, and, of course, perfect settings for the next Total War adventure. Let’s grab our time-traveling magnifying glass and zoom in on some of the most exciting possibilities, shall we?

Medieval 3: Total War – A Return to the Middle Ages?

The cries for Medieval 3 echo across the internet like a trebuchet volley! Fans are starving for a return to the era of knights, castles, and ridiculously complicated family trees. Imagine commanding revamped European kingdoms, like a super-powered France or a ruthless England. Or perhaps you’d prefer leading the charge as one of the rising Eastern powers, forging a new empire under the watchful eye of the steppes. And let’s not forget the Vikings! Picture leading a massive Viking expansion, raiding coastal settlements and establishing your own frosty kingdom.

But it wouldn’t just be a reskin of Medieval II. We need deeper religious systems, where papal influence and heresy can make or break your campaign. Economic guilds could add layers of complexity to trade and resource management. And, of course, more complex feudal relationships – because nothing says “fun” like navigating the treacherous web of vassalage and alliances!

Rome 3: Total War – Expanding the Empire?

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was the perfect Rome: Total War game. Rome II was…ambitious, to say the least. A new Rome title offers the chance to truly capture the grandeur and political intrigue of the Roman Republic and Empire.

Think about it: Enhanced campaign mechanics that delve into the seedy underbelly of Roman politics, where senate backstabbing and popular unrest could topple even the most powerful emperor. Senate interactions need to be more than just clicking a button; imagine actively swaying senators to your cause, bribing rivals, or even orchestrating assassinations (discreetly, of course!). And who wouldn’t want improved provincial management, dealing with everything from rebellious slaves to barbarian incursions?

Combat-wise, we’re talking more realistic unit formations that reflect the tactical doctrines of the Roman legions. A naval warfare overhaul is a must, allowing for epic sea battles that decide the fate of entire continents. And siege improvements that make assaulting fortified cities a truly desperate and brutal affair.

The Allure of the East: Returning to the Three Kingdoms?

Three Kingdoms was a smash hit, breathing new life into the Total War formula with its focus on character-driven narratives and larger-than-life heroes. But is it time to revisit this tumultuous period of Chinese history?

Perhaps a new game could focus on different warlords, offering fresh perspectives on the conflict. Imagine playing as Sun Jian, the “Little Conqueror,” or the cunning strategist Zhuge Liang. Expanded diplomacy could allow for even more intricate alliances and betrayals, reflecting the constantly shifting allegiances of the era. And, of course, unique unit types inspired by the various factions and cultures of the Three Kingdoms period.

The question is, could another Three Kingdoms game avoid feeling like a rehash? The setting is rich and complex, but Creative Assembly would need to bring something truly new to the table to justify a return.

Ancient Greece: The Age of Heroes and Warfare

Ah, the cradle of Western civilization! The age of myths, philosophers, and epic naval battles. The era of Alexander the Great and the Peloponnesian War is practically begging to be explored in a Total War game.

Imagine managing your own city-state, navigating the complex web of alliances and rivalries that defined ancient Greece. Naval combat would be paramount, with triremes clashing in desperate struggles for control of the Aegean Sea. You could lead the Athenians to dominate the seas and intellect or the Spartans with unparalleled warriors.

The opportunities for a Total War: Ancient Greece are endless. From the rise of Macedonia to the wars between the Greek city-states, this era is packed with enough drama, intrigue, and battlefield carnage to satisfy even the most demanding Total War fan.

Historical Battles vs. Fantasy Realms: Picking Your Poison (or Pike!)

Alright, Total War aficionados, let’s get down to brass tacks. We all know that the heart of the Total War series lies in its incredibly diverse selection of settings, gameplay styles and tones, and even general game design philosophies! Is it going to be the muddy fields of Agincourt? Or the roaring battlefields of Warhammer? Or a deep dive into Britannia? It seems that Creative Assembly have got all their bases covered! But the question is, what will they do next? And what should they do next?

The Power of History: Grounded Realism and Authenticity

Let’s face it, there’s a reason why Total War started with history. The marriage of turn-based strategy and real-time tactical battles works in a historical setting. There is something incredibly satisfying when you manage to maneuver your Roman legion and crush a barbarian horde, or deftly use combined arms to outflank and obliterate a medieval army. These are the historical moments that have been passed down, and that still enthrall us to this day.

The draw is that the best historically accurate Total War games capture a real sense of immersion. Think of Shogun 2’s beautiful depiction of feudal Japan, or Rome: Total War’s gritty depiction of the Roman Republic. They feel authentic. History buffs love that!

• Successful historical titles like Rome, Medieval II, and Shogun 2 have set a high bar, offering immersive campaigns, diverse factions, and satisfying combat. It is with no doubt that this has cemented the legacy of the Total War franchise.

Fantasy Warfare: Expanding the Warhammer Universe

On the other hand, sometimes you just want to unleash a massive Grimgor ‘Eadsplitter’ on a horde of Bretonnian Knights! I think it goes without saying that Total War: Warhammer was a stroke of genius. Combining the tried-and-tested Total War formula with the deep, rich lore of Warhammer was a match made in heaven (or hell, depending on your faction).

The benefits are obvious: instant name recognition, a huge existing fanbase, and limitless possibilities. We have already seen the Old World and the New World, and what that had to offer with the Mortal Empires campaign, but could there be more on the horizon? Total War: Warhammer could go anywhere!

• New factions like the Khaos Dwarfs, Kislev, Cathay, or even the Southern Realms are all valid contenders, not to mention the endless possibilities for new units, spells, and campaign mechanics that the Warhammer universe provides.

Saga Titles: Focused Historical Scenarios

Finally, let’s not forget the Saga titles. These smaller-scale, more focused games offer a unique alternative to the sprawling grand campaigns of the main series. Total War Saga: Thrones of Britannia and Total War Saga: Troy both proved that there’s a market for these more intimate, narrative-driven experiences.

The beauty of Saga titles is that they can explore niche historical periods or conflicts that wouldn’t necessarily warrant a full-fledged Total War game. Imagine a game focused on the Viking Age, the Hundred Years’ War, or even the rise of the Ottoman Empire!

• They offer a chance to experiment with new mechanics and gameplay styles without the pressure of a mainline release, which can be really exciting for players who like something a little bit different, and for the devs at Creative Assembly to test the waters.

Revolutionizing Gameplay: New Mechanics and Systems

Let’s face it, Total War is already a masterpiece, but even masterpieces can use a fresh coat of paint, right? We’re talking about diving deep into mechanics that could make the next installment truly unforgettable. Diplomacy, for instance, could use some serious love. Imagine alliances that feel like actual partnerships, where backstabbing is a calculated risk, not an inevitability. Dynamic relationships that evolve based on your actions – forge a strong bond through trade and mutual defense, or sour relations with constant border skirmishes.

Then there’s the nitty-gritty of resource management. Forget simply clicking to build a farm; we want to see supply lines stretched thin during a brutal winter campaign, economic warfare crippling enemy cities, and maybe even the option to hoard resources to drive up prices on the global market. In combat, picture combined arms tactics that truly matter, where flanking maneuvers and coordinated artillery barrages are crucial for victory. Morale systems that reflect the ebb and flow of battle, where a courageous stand or a devastating loss can turn the tide in an instant.

And how about some truly unique mechanics? Character-driven events that force you to make tough choices, where your decisions have lasting consequences on your faction’s fate. More impactful weather effects, where blizzards can halt armies in their tracks and monsoons can flood vital trade routes. And, of course, who wouldn’t want a robust espionage system, where you can sow dissent in enemy ranks, steal valuable technologies, or even assassinate key figures to destabilize their empires? The possibilities are endless, and the next Total War has the potential to truly redefine what’s possible in the grand strategy genre.

Smarter Enemies: Enhancing Artificial Intelligence

Remember those moments when you outsmarted the AI with a simple flanking maneuver and felt like a strategic genius? Good times, but let’s be honest, sometimes the AI can be a bit…predictable. It’s time for Total War to unleash an AI that can truly challenge us, one that makes us sweat and second-guess our every move.

Imagine enemy factions that make smarter tactical decisions on the battlefield, utilizing terrain to their advantage, coordinating their attacks, and adapting to your strategies. Picture campaign AI that isn’t afraid to take risks, forming unexpected alliances, launching daring raids, and employing cunning diplomatic ploys to undermine your power. An AI that learns from its mistakes, that evolves and adapts as the campaign progresses, that constantly keeps you on your toes.

A truly great Total War game isn’t just about conquering the map; it’s about testing your skills against worthy opponents, whether they’re human or artificial. And with a significantly enhanced AI, the next Total War could deliver a single-player experience that’s as challenging and engaging as any multiplayer match.

Multiplayer Mayhem: New Ways to Wage War Together

Total War has always been about epic battles and grand campaigns, but the multiplayer aspect often feels like a bit of an afterthought. It’s time to change that and unleash the full potential of online warfare.

Let’s start with cooperative campaigns. Imagine sharing control of a single faction with a friend, coordinating your armies, managing your economies, and jointly pursuing shared objectives. Picture joint operations that require seamless communication and trust, where you must rely on each other’s strengths to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

And for those who crave competition, how about some new competitive multiplayer modes? Ranked seasons with leaderboards, new game modes that emphasize specific aspects of warfare, or even spectator features that allow you to watch epic battles unfold between other players.

The goal is to create a vibrant online community where players can connect, compete, and forge lasting rivalries. With the right enhancements, the next Total War could become a multiplayer juggernaut, attracting players from all over the world to test their skills on the digital battlefield.

Unleashing Creativity: Robust Modding Support

Let’s be real, some of the best content for Total War games comes from the community. Modders have created entire new factions, overhauled gameplay mechanics, and even added completely new campaigns. They are the unsung heroes of Total War, and it’s time to give them the tools they need to truly unleash their creativity.

Robust modding support is not just a nice-to-have feature; it’s essential for extending the lifespan and replayability of Total War games. By providing modders with access to the game’s code and assets, Creative Assembly can empower them to create content that caters to every imaginable taste.

Imagine a Total War game where you can play as a completely custom faction, with unique units, technologies, and campaign mechanics. Picture overhauls that completely change the game’s focus, from historical accuracy to fantastical alternate realities. Envision entirely new campaigns that explore obscure historical periods or even create entirely new worlds.

With robust modding support, the possibilities are truly endless. The next Total War could become a living, breathing platform, constantly evolving and expanding thanks to the creativity and passion of its community.

The Architects of War: Creative Assembly, SEGA, and the Development Team

Okay, let’s peek behind the curtain, shall we? Because even the most epic battles and cunning campaign strategies wouldn’t exist without the masterminds pulling the strings. We’re talking about Creative Assembly (CA), the wizarding workshop behind Total War, and SEGA, the publisher who helps bring those strategic visions to life. And, of course, let’s not forget the unsung heroes: the dev team!

Creative Assembly: A Legacy of Strategy

Creative Assembly isn’t some fly-by-night studio. They’ve been crafting strategy games for decades, and their dedication to historical accuracy (when they’re not battling Orcs, of course!) is legendary. They are the reason we’re all glued to our screens, meticulously planning our next move, whether it’s conquering Europe or uniting Three Kingdoms. Their design philosophy often revolves around immersing players in a period, balancing the grand strategic scale with the nitty-gritty tactical details. Talk about a commitment!

SEGA: Guiding the Franchise

Now, SEGA, the publisher, plays a crucial role too. They’re the ones who help bring the game to market, handling everything from marketing campaigns that get us hyped to ensuring the game reaches as many players as possible. They provide crucial support that allows CA to focus on what they do best: making incredible games. Think of them as the wise counsel to CA’s ambitious ruler. They influence the overall direction, ensuring the Total War franchise remains relevant and continues to evolve with the times.

The Visionaries: Total War Team and Dev Leads

But let’s be real; it’s the people within Creative Assembly that we truly want to celebrate. These are the visionaries, the artists, the programmers, and the designers who pour their hearts and souls into every Total War game. They are the ones who wrestle with the historical records, translate complex systems into engaging gameplay, and ultimately craft the experiences we cherish. These are the dev leads who chart the course, making sure the game remains true to the franchise while boldly moving into the future. They take in feedback from players to make changes and improve the game for the better.

The Voice of the People: Community Input and Expectations

Total War isn’t just built by Creative Assembly; it’s co-created with the community. Fan feedback is like the Roman Senate – sometimes chaotic, often opinionated, but ultimately influential in shaping the destiny of the series. Let’s peek behind the curtain and see what the digital vox populi are clamoring for.

Reddit’s Battlefield: The Total War Subreddit (r/totalwar)

Ah, Reddit. The digital Colosseum where passionate fans gather to debate, speculate, and occasionally meme their way through the latest Total War theories. It’s a hotbed of activity, a place where every crumb of news is analyzed with the intensity of a general plotting a siege. The r/totalwar subreddit serves as a crucial barometer of community sentiment.

Here’s a taste of what’s been brewing:

• The Historical Setting Holy Grail: You can bet your bottom dollar that historical settings are always a top request. The thirst for Medieval 3: Total War is palpable, practically dripping off the screen. Beyond that, people are dreaming of unexplored eras: think Bronze Age collapses, gunpowder empires, or even something completely left-field like pre-Columbian America.
• Gameplay Overhauls: The community isn’t shy about wanting to see improvements under the hood. Better diplomacy (alliances that actually mean something!), smarter AI (enemies that don’t just zerg rush!), and deeper economic systems (more than just clicking “build farm”) are consistently high on the wishlist.
• Bug Fixes & Polish: Let’s be real, no game is perfect. The community’s eagle eyes often catch glitches, balance issues, and historical inaccuracies that need ironing out. They’re the unpaid QA testers the series desperately needs.
• Modding Love: Total War’s longevity is, in part, due to its robust modding scene. Fans regularly request better modding tools and support from Creative Assembly, understanding that community-created content adds incredible value and replayability.
• “When is the next game coming out?!” Let’s face it. This is the question on everyone’s lips and the community won’t rest until it gets a straight answer (or at least a cryptic hint!).

Official Channels: The Total War Forums

While Reddit is the wild west of Total War discussion, the official forums are more like a well-maintained Roman road – organized, moderated, and generally more…civilized. It’s where Creative Assembly actively engages with players, dropping announcements, soliciting feedback, and answering (or artfully dodging) tough questions.

These forums provide a more direct line of communication between the developers and the players:

• Creative Assembly’s Listening Post: The forums are where CA often gauges community reaction to new content, patches, and design decisions. They might run polls, create dedicated feedback threads, or even invite select players to closed beta tests.
• Bug Reporting & Technical Support: The official forums are a primary channel for reporting bugs and seeking technical assistance. The dedicated support staff and knowledgeable community members often provide valuable help in resolving issues.
• Official Announcements & Dev Diaries: This is the go-to place for official news about the game, including announcements of new DLC, patches, and even glimpses into the development process through dev diaries.
• A Hub for Modders: Like Reddit, the official forums host a vibrant modding community. Players can share their creations, offer support, and collaborate on projects.
• Constructive Criticism and Suggestions: It’s not all sunshine and roses; the forums are also a place where players voice their concerns and offer constructive criticism. Creative Assembly is known to take this feedback seriously, often incorporating it into future updates and expansions.

So, there you have it. While we can’t say for sure what’s next for Total War, one thing is clear: the future is bright, and the possibilities are endless. Whatever Creative Assembly cooks up, we’ll be ready with our armies (both digital and armchair)!