Top 10 Mythology and Ancient Civilization-Themed Games

Written By Robert DeSimone

The enchanting realms of ancient myths and civilizations offer a fertile ground for game developers, resulting in a plethora of engaging titles that range from strategic conquests to epic narratives. Here’s an in-depth look at ten standout games that transport players back to the storied eras of the Greeks, Romans, and other ancient cultures, detailing their thematic depth and distinguishing between tabletop and PC gaming experiences.

1. Civilization VI (2016)

  • Developer: Firaxis Games

  • Theme: This turn-based strategy game allows players to embody famous leaders of historical civilizations, including Cleopatra of Egypt and Pericles of Greece, guiding them through the ages from the Stone Age to the Information Age. Players engage in diplomacy, warfare, and technology development, aiming to build a civilization that stands the test of time.

  • Type: PC

  • Sales Data: Exceeded 5.5 million copies by 2021.

  • Availability: On Steam, Epic Games Store, and physical retailers.

2. Total War: Rome II (2013)

  • Developer: Creative Assembly

  • Theme: Combining grand strategy and real-time tactics, this game plunges players into the political intrigue and battlefield tactics of ancient Rome. Players manage cities, armies, and maneuver intricate diplomatic landscapes to expand their empire, facing historical challenges and engaging in epic battles that can include thousands of troops.

  • Type: PC

  • Sales Data: Surpassed 1 million copies within its first week.

  • Availability: On Steam and other digital platforms.

3. God of War Series (2005-2021)

  • Developer: Santa Monica Studio

  • Theme: Initially set in an ancient Greece replete with gods, titans, and mythical monsters, the series follows Kratos, a Spartan warrior tricked into killing his family by his former master, the Greek god of war Ares. The narrative evolves to include Norse mythology in later titles, exploring themes of vengeance, redemption, and fate within a richly detailed mythological backdrop.

  • Type: Console (PlayStation)

  • Sales Data: The series boasts over 51 million copies sold as of 2021.

  • Availability: PlayStation Store and physical retailers.

4. Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018)

  • Developer: Ubisoft Quebec

  • Theme: Set during the Peloponnesian War, this action RPG casts players as a mercenary exploring a beautifully realized ancient Greece, where choices affect the story's outcome. The game weaves historical figures and events with mythological elements, including encounters with mythical beasts and the Greek gods.

  • Type: PC/Console

  • Sales Data: Part of Ubisoft's best-selling franchise, though specific figures for Odyssey are not disclosed.

  • Availability: Ubisoft Connect, Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Marketplace.

5. Age of Empires: Definitive Edition (2018)

  • Developer: Forgotten Empires

  • Theme: This real-time strategy game revitalizes the classic Age of Empires experience with updated graphics and new features. Players develop a civilization from a handful of villagers to an expansive empire by conquering enemy towns and nations, deeply immersing players in the ancient world with civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks.

  • Type: PC

  • Sales Data: Part of a highly successful series, though specific sales figures for the Definitive Edition are not detailed.

  • Availability: Microsoft Store and Steam.

6. Hades (2018)

  • Developer: Supergiant Games

  • Theme: A rogue-like dungeon crawler that tells the story of Zagreus, the son of Hades, as he attempts to escape the underworld. The game integrates Greek mythology deeply into its narrative and gameplay, with gods granting gifts, legendary heroes appearing as bosses, and a storyline that explores themes of family and rebellion.

  • Type: PC/Console

  • Sales Data: Over 1 million units sold by 2020.

  • Availability: Steam, Epic Games Store, Nintendo eShop, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Marketplace.

7. Cyclades (2009)

  • Developer: Matagot

  • Theme: In this strategy board game, players vie for control of the Cyclades archipelago in ancient Greece, seeking the favor of gods like Zeus and Poseidon to build two metropolises first. The game blends auction and combat mechanics, with mythical creatures like the Kraken and Medusa influencing the outcome.

  • Type: Tabletop

  • Sales Data: Sales data not publicly disclosed, but it is a favorite among board game enthusiasts.

  • Availability: Specialty board game stores and online retailers.

8. 7 Wonders (2010)

  • Developer: Repos Production

  • Theme: A card drafting game that allows players to guide an ancient civilization to greatness over three ages. Each player manages resources, develops commercial routes, and establishes military dominance, all while constructing an architectural wonder that can stand the test of time. The game is lauded for its reflection of the strategic depth and cultural achievements of ancient civilizations.

  • Type: Tabletop

  • Sales Data: Has sold over a million copies worldwide.

  • Availability: Widely available in board game stores and online.

9. Ryse: Son of Rome (2013)

  • Developer: Crytek

  • Theme: This visually stunning action-adventure game is set in ancient Rome, following the story of Marius Titus, a young Roman soldier who seeks to avenge his family's death while serving the empire. The game combines cinematic storytelling with brutal combat and accurately depicted historical locations, immersing players in the tumultuous period of Roman history.

  • Type: PC/Console

  • Sales Data: Exact sales figures are not publicly available, but it was considered a successful launch title for the Xbox One.

  • Availability: On Xbox Live, Steam, and other digital distribution platforms.

10. Mythology (2001)

  • Developer: Eagle Games

  • Theme: This board game dives deep into the pantheons of various ancient cultures, including Greek, Norse, and Egyptian mythologies. Players assume the roles of gods and goddesses, using their powers to influence heroes, monsters, and mortals to achieve legendary status among their pantheon. It's a game of strategy, luck, and diplomacy, offering a rich narrative experience.

  • Type: Tabletop

  • Sales Data: As a more niche title, specific sales figures are not widely disclosed.

  • Availability: Specialty board game stores and online marketplaces may offer new or used copies.

Each of these games, whether set upon the table or the screen, offers a unique window into the worlds of ancient mythology and civilizations, inviting players to experience the legends, conflicts, and cultures that have shaped human storytelling for millennia. From the strategic depth of managing an empire to the personal journey of mythic heroes, these games continue to captivate and entertain, proving the timeless appeal of these ancient narratives.

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