Praetorians HD Remaster

The look of this strategy game is updated, but the flaws and gameplay remains the same. Praetorians HD Remaster is an updated version of a game from 2003, but in many ways, it's not a serious upgrade. The camera angles are too limited and don't provide an adequate view of the battlefield. The individual units, when zoomed in, aren't very compelling, and some of the gameplay mechanics are flawed. Take, for example, the beginning tutorial. You are tasked with getting a scout to the river, but in some instances, the scout runs off and is nowhere to be found.

The game's focus is on violence, but it's mild, particularly compared to other titles released then or today, which is something that the updated graphics haven't enhanced. There are also outdated features, like the limited fog of war on the map. If you have a scout, you can release his hawk and see enemies that may be hidden in forested areas, but this effect doesn't last long. What's more, no one seems interested in playing multiplayer matches, because the lobbies are frequently empty. The upside to the game? Well, it can serve as an adequate intro to strategy games, requiring knowledge about your units and how to best deploy them. Players have to watch and adjust their strategy, make use of the terrain, and each unit's special abilities to be successful. Unfortunately, you'll have to also suffer through bland missions and environments while you're practicing your strategy, which might not keep your attention for long. The end result is a classic that's gotten a new lease on gameplay, but with a presentation that's better left back in the past.