Ubisoft has announced an exciting addition to its city-building franchise with the upcoming DLC for Anno 117: Pax Romana, titled Prophecies of Ash, set to launch later this month. This expansion introduces players to Cinis, the largest island in the series, dramatically overshadowed by a formidable volcano. The inclusion of such a natural wonder adds an intriguing layer of risk and strategy to the construction of a Roman city, as players navigate the potential for disaster that could resonate through the ages.
Exploring Cinis and New Features
Cinis serves as an extension of the Latium province rather than an entirely new map, offering a wealth of resources for players to harness. The trailer for Prophecies of Ash hints at a vibrant environment, rich with river slots and mining nodes, inviting citizens to capitalize on the island’s bountiful offerings. A notable addition in this DLC is the introduction of Obsidian, a new resource that allows players to craft unique items such as carved idols and board games, alongside the intricate production chains necessary for their creation.
The press release from Ubisoft details that the volcanic mechanics will feature eruptions, volcanic winters, and a “bloom phase.” These elements are expected to significantly influence agricultural productivity, with eruptions likely hindering food production while the bloom phase could enhance it, creating a dynamic balance for players to manage.
Additionally, players will have the opportunity to construct a temple dedicated to Vulcan, which not only boosts mining productivity but also enhances fire safety within the city—an essential consideration given the volcanic backdrop.
Scheduled for release on April 23, Prophecies of Ash arrives at a pivotal moment for Anno 117, which currently holds a ‘Mixed’ rating on Steam. This mixed reception stems partly from the controversial use of AI art in the game, which has since been removed, as well as criticisms regarding the perceived incompleteness of the game at launch, particularly with the omission of the third act of the campaign’s story.
Despite these challenges, Anno 117 has achieved remarkable success, marking the highest launch in the series’ history. Our own Phil Iwaniuk praised the game with a score of 80, highlighting its engaging setting and characterisation. He noted, “Anno 117 finds a reason for being with its setting and characterisation, giving you new resources and supply chains using a ready-made and polished interface,” reflecting the game’s compelling nature and its captivating portrayal of Rome.
