Ages of Conflict is a versatile Map Simulation game where you spawn and observe custom or random AI nations battle it out across an infinite number of worlds. Command nations to nudge the world events into your liking.
The game allows players to observe the complex interactions of AI-controlled nations as they battle, ally, and collapse across a variety of customizable maps and scenarios. Developed by JoySpark Games, the game offers a captivating and dynamic world-building experience, despite not being a traditional strategy game.
Players can select from pre-made maps and scenarios or create their own using the game's powerful map editor. Once the world is set up, the AI-controlled nations begin to navigate the world, forming alliances, declaring wars, and experiencing internal turmoil through revolts and collapses.
Players praise the game's sandbox-like nature, which allows them to observe the AI nations without direct intervention. By taking on a "God Mode" role, players can manipulate the world by changing nation names, forcing alliances or wars, and even causing nations to collapse. This level of control over the simulation enables endless experimentation and the creation of unique, player-driven narratives.
The game's flexibility in terms of map and scenario creation is another aspect that players appreciate. The pre-made maps and scenarios, combined with the robust map painter tool, enable players to create their own custom worlds, including the ability to design unique nation shapes, sizes, and placements. The Steam Workshop integration further expands the game's content, as players can download and play scenarios created by the community.
While the game does not have a pre-defined narrative, players often find themselves drawn into the dynamic unfolding of events. The unpredictable nature of the AI-driven interactions, with alliances forming and breaking, wars erupting, and nations rising and falling, encourages players to create their own stories and narratives. This emergent storytelling aspect is a significant part of the game's appeal, as players can craft unique historical or alternate-history scenarios and observe how they unfold.
Reviewers have noted that the game's simple, pixel-art visuals and low system requirements make it accessible to a wide range of players. Additionally, the game's performance is generally praised, with the simulation running smoothly even on less powerful hardware.
While the game has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, some players have suggested areas for potential improvement. These include the desire for more advanced AI behaviors, such as the ability for nations to target specific cities or implement more strategic military maneuvers. Additionally, some players have expressed a wish for the addition of a multiplayer mode, allowing for collaborative or competitive scenarios between players.