Empire: Total War

Large doesn't even begin to describe the scale of this game

The naval battles feature an astonishing amount of detail

The world map is where all the strategy and diplomacy goes on

Expand the British Empire or destroy it - the choice is yours

Like the previous Total War titles the gameplay is split into two main parts, with overall strategy, diplomacy and resource management taking place on a turn-based world map. Actual battles are controlled directly by you though.

The strategy elements are more engrossing than ever, but it's the battles that really steal the show, with incredible graphics that may be the most detailed ever seen. For the first time you can control naval combat hands-on, while rifles and artillery play a much more central role than ever before. If you thought strategy games were boring and slow, this is the game to change your mind.

• Imperial power: Take control of the empire of your choice in a worldwide quest for territory that runs from 1700 to the early 19th century.
• A sailor's life: For the first time you can control naval combat yourself, with authentic ships, weapons and tactics that evolve as time goes on.
• Century of change: As the 18th century progresses the art of war evolves, with more modern style battles involving artillery barrages, snipers and riflemen.
• Pretty face: With an incredible eye for detail and historical accuracy, the amazing new graphics also allow for factors such as the weather to be properly simulated.
• Online empire: For the first time in a Total War game you can compete in a full campaign multiplayer mode, not just one-off real-time battles.

• Take command on the high seas. New real-time 3D naval warfare takes Total War's unparalleled battle action to the high seas, with players commanding single ships or vast fleets.
• Become a founding father. Control the fate of the United States of America, from its revolution against the British to overcoming the challenges of a young independent nation.
• Brand new multiplayer component includes player rankings, leagues and ladders, and completely new gameplay modes.
• All-new graphics engine and technology features staggering real-time seascapes, new advanced landscape and flora systems, and dynamic weather.