Exploring Anno 117: Pax Romana’s ancient world

GAMING NEWS AlexP - Nov 4, 2025, 13:00

The world of Anno 117: Pax Romana invites players to step into one of the most iconic periods in human history — the height of the Roman Empire. Set in the year 117 AD, during the era known as the Pax Romana, the game captures the fragile balance between prosperity and power that defined this time. Players take on the role of a Roman governor tasked with developing and managing provinces within the vast Empire. The experience begins with a meaningful choice between two regions: the civilized heart of Latium or the untamed lands of Albion, where Celtic traditions and rugged landscapes challenge your authority. Each location offers a different tone and rhythm of play, emphasizing how culture and geography shape the path of civilization.

At its core, Anno 117: Pax Romana remains faithful to the essence of the Anno series — a blend of city-building, resource management, and economic strategy — while introducing new layers of depth. Players must balance trade, infrastructure, and citizen satisfaction as they expand their settlements across the Empire. New mechanics allow for diagonal construction and more organic city layouts, moving beyond the traditional grid-based systems of earlier entries. Building placement now has tangible effects on productivity, as influence zones and environmental factors add strategic complexity. Beyond architecture, cultural development plays a key role, letting governors decide whether to embrace Roman discipline or integrate the customs of local populations, creating a richer narrative of governance and identity.

Shaping civilization at the height of Rome’s power

Expect a deeply immersive experience built on intricate systems that reward patience and foresight. The game encourages careful city planning and thoughtful progression rather than rapid expansion. Its tone mirrors that of Anno 1800, which balanced industrial ambition with the human stories behind urban growth. However, Anno 117 distinguishes itself by grounding its challenge in antiquity, where politics, religion, and culture intertwine more organically. Each province tells its own story through the architecture, economy, and people under your rule, making every decision feel like a small chapter in the grand narrative of Rome.

For players who love the calm satisfaction of watching a society evolve, Anno 117: Pax Romana promises a sophisticated and atmospheric journey. Its detailed environments, from marble forums to Celtic hill forts, capture both the majesty and fragility of empire. As cities rise, trade routes flourish, and populations thrive, the game becomes not only a test of management but also a meditation on civilization itself — how power is built, and how peace is maintained. Make sure you use our price comparison tool to find the best prices for Anno 117: Pax Romana.