Empires in Ruins

Empires in Ruins is a story-driven strategy game that combines turn-based empire management with real-time battles using Tower Defense and RTS mechanics. You lead grumpy Sergeant Hans Heimer on a personal vendetta against “the system,” as he is sent to suppress a rebellion in the Western Marches, a borderland of the Principality of Koth that has cut contact with the capital and declared independence. The neighboring kingdom of the Krovans may also have plans for Koth.

The campaign

On the turn-based Main Map, you manage the campaign, develop conquered provinces and handle diplomacy. You can access combat maps as the plot advances, or to defend or replay them, and inspect each province’s assets and governors. Conquer provinces, use their reach and infrastructure to expand and fortify, improve regional production to fund your campaign, and appoint men to govern regions, where they may betray you. The campaign also includes a plot of betrayals, diplomacy and twists.

You can research more than 100 technologies to develop your troops, weapons and economies. The feature list also specifies 70+ technologies, alongside 30+ unlockables including towers, abilities, buildings and headquarters. An Arcade play mode is also available.

Real-time battles

Battles combine Tower Defense and RTS mechanics. You build in real time while trying to keep workers from taking dangerous routes, manage resources and production, and deploy Officers to command and strengthen your forces. The combat maps include 17 towers with unique features; combining their abilities can create stronger effects.

You must defend against ground, air, water, amphibian and secret enemy paths. Enemies can open unexpected routes, sabotage towers and damage production, forcing you to adapt your defenses.

Setting and tone

The story takes place in a corrupted Principality governed by self-important nobles, clergy and army officers. Its black humor follows the irritable, alcoholic Sergeant Heimer as he confronts the rebellion and the political forces around it.