Strategy games have held a special place in my heart ever since I built my first thatch hut in Age of Empires. There’s something about growing a massive, thriving empire from nothing that resonates with me, and fans of the genre will know exactly what I’m talking about. For some it’s the fun of wielding the power of a President, Emperor or God, while others are attracted by the challenge of balancing an ever growing number of resources, opportunities, problems and threats. Forget about building Rome in a day—strategy games let you build Rome in a matter of hours, then tear it all down and begin again.
Spice Road explores the establishment of European trade routes with the East during the 18th century. It’s an important period of human history, yet one that’s seen few portrayals in gaming. That’s a shame, because it’s a concept rife with strategic potential—exploration, resource management, construction and trade in foreign lands full of military threats, political intrigue and cultural clashes could keep strategy fans engrossed for countless hours.
Spice Road looks to capture the danger and wonder of that era through a 20 mission campaign that sees you establishing camps, towns and trade routes on your way to dominating the spice trade (and the ore trade, and the food trade, and so on). It’s a noble attempt at grand strategy, but one that falls frustratingly short of its ambitions.
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