Ubisoft’s upcoming title Anno 117: Pax Romana quickly asserts itself as a worthy successor to Anno 1800. Set in a richly rendered Roman era, this city builder invites players to step into the role of a provincial governor rebuilding after a disaster. The setting, Rome during the Pax Romana, offers a compelling backdrop for a gameplay experience rooted in infrastructure, resource management, and strategic planning.
The preview event took place in the Gardens of Solist in Rome, once belonging to Julius Caesar. That symbolic setting only strengthened the sense of historical immersion. But beneath the aesthetic shift, Anno 117 maintains the mechanical foundation that fans of Anno 1800 will immediately recognize—layered city building, resource chaining, and logistical fine-tuning.
What Makes Anno 117 Unique?
While Anno 1800 capitalized on the industrial revolution’s sweeping technological shifts, Anno 117 must do more with less. The ancient Roman Empire lacks the dramatic mechanical evolution that powered its predecessor, but it introduces new layers of complexity.
You begin with Liberty citizens who ask for simple goods like porridge and tunics. As your city evolves, satisfied citizens ascend to the plebeian class, whose demands multiply rapidly. Plebeians want bread, soap, education, and olive oil—all of which require diverse production buildings and cross-island trade routes. It’s a clear reflection of Roman society’s layered complexity.
Instead of constant innovation, Anno 117 leans into variation. Different citizen tiers have escalating needs, and each product chain deepens the economic web. The map itself becomes a vital part of your empire, requiring outposts on fertile islands to support your growing capital.
Building Placement Now Affects Your Economy
A significant shift comes from how building placement now affects your income and citizen satisfaction. For instance, placing a spinner near residential buildings grants a direct income bonus. Meanwhile, some structures, such as soap makers, have both positive (health boosts) and negative (happiness drops) effects.
This adjustment forces players to build with far more intention than before. No longer is the goal simply to complete chains efficiently—now you must consider proximity, synergy, and long-term economic strategy. It’s a smart twist that adds tactical depth without disrupting the Anno formula.
Military, Research, and the Mystery of Albian
Despite being set during the Pax Romana, Anno 117 doesn’t ignore warfare. Players can construct armies, provided they dedicate significant city resources to support them. However, combat remains optional, preserving the game’s city-building focus.
A full tech tree introduces three research paths—economic, civic, and military. Knowledge is the key resource here, generated by buildings like the Grammaticus, and enhanced through tech upgrades. It’s another fresh layer that encourages forward planning.
One of the most intriguing late-game features is Albian, a secondary map inspired by Celtic Britain. The harsh contrast between lush Rome and rugged Albian allows Ubisoft to explore cultural tension. Players will choose between adopting local Celtic customs or enforcing Roman traditions, affecting bonuses and outcomes. This dynamic builds on themes of cultural assimilation, religion, and empire expansion in ways not previously seen in the Anno series. Whether you’re expanding trade routes across fertile islands or deciding the fate of Albian’s culture, Anno 117 looks ready to deliver a fresh take on historical strategy.
