Civis: The Eternal City

The Rise of Civis: The Eternal City

In Civis: The Eternal City, players step into the tumultuous political arena of ancient Rome, where a senator’s decisions can shape history. Set against the backdrop of a declining Republic, this PC strategy game spans four generations from 138 BC to 14 AD. As a member of the Senate, your choices define your lineage, family legacy, and the fate of a nation teetering on the brink of disaster.

Engage in the Political Landscape

The core mechanics blend traditional strategy with intricate diplomacy. The game emphasizes political maneuvering, where survival hinges not just on military victories, but also on forming alliances in the Senate and managing a web of client relationships. Every dawn brings the Salutatio ritual, a bustling morning where clients seek favors, giving the player unique opportunities to secure political power and influence.

Navigating Factional Politics

Unlike typical grand strategy games, Civis places a strong focus on oratory skills. Through the Disputatio system, you craft speeches, leveraging classical rhetoric to persuade audiences in the Senate or at public fora. Different political arenas require varied approaches; success requires adaptability and insight into your opponents' motivations and loyalties. This nuanced layer adds richness to each confrontation.

Building a Family Dynasty

Your character's journey spans critical historical events. Beginning during the Gracchan Crisis and culminating with the Augustan Settlement, pivotal moments shape the political landscape. Choose to align with reformists, conservatives, or take a more opportunistic stance. Each decision echoes through time, influencing not just your immediate surroundings but also the broader trajectory of Roman history.

The Weight of Historical Events

Players will witness the unfolding of significant historical shifts, such as the Marian Revolution and the poignant Late Republic. As your family navigates pressure from social changes and military upheavals, they must make choices that could lead to glory or disgrace. Does your family stand with the emerging power or remain loyal to fading traditions? The outcomes vary dramatically based on your leadership.

Politics Beyond the Senate

The Convivium, or dinner politics, serves as another pivotal venue where influential discussions shape the fabric of society. The social setting of these gatherings provides an informal platform to forge alliances, divulge secrets, and strike deals. Here, personal relationships can be as crucial as the rhetoric used in official settings, emphasizing the game’s commitment to authentic portrayal of Roman political life.

Legacy and Survival

Ultimately, Civis: The Eternal City poses deep, thought-provoking questions about legacy, survival, and moral choices. As the Republic crumbles, will you preserve your family’s prominence, or will the strains of the failing state prove too great? Your lineage's fate rests in your hands, as you navigate a rich narrative filled with peril, opportunity, and the ever-present threat of political demise.