Warhammer 40,000: Rites of War

Got this for free last week and was finally able to run on Win7 today. After trial and error discovered I needed to manually adjust screen to 16 bit color depth and 800x600 resolution in order for game to be visible. Otherwise just a black screen with game sounds. Haven't tried this game on Win10 yet but assume that the launcher is able to access required screen mode without user intervention? To the game - was an OK looking game for 1999 but obviously graphics engine was already somewhat dated when this launched. So looks more like something from '95-'96 era than '99 (for comparison first installment of Age of Wonders launched in '99 and Diablo II in 2000). Despite this, the Warhammer 40,000 universe setting, turned-based play and decent game mechanics all help make Rites of War a fun walk down memory lane for me. While I would regard it was a pretty minor entry in the history of the franchise would still recommend to fans of Warhammer games and certainly anyone looking for a little nostalgia from GOG.

I had this game years ago, and it was superb. Simple to learn, but challenging to play well. If you like the 40K setting and don't mind some older style graphics this is a superb and economically priced game for you to while some hours away with.

In this modern age I feel a bit overwhelmed by choice in gaming titles, and sometimes like the old games more for a nostalgia factor. This was not the case of this game, I have never heard of it, warhammer always seemed like a complicated lore with too many factions to get into, bought this on whim, and I had a lot of fun. Being short was actually a bonus for me since time is a valuable resource.

Timeless Classic. True to it's contemporary edition of 40K

If you like Warhammer 40K but at the same time Panzer General you will absolutely love this gem. Rites of War is a classic turn-based strategy game set in the grim dark future of the 40K universe. It puts you in command of the enigmatic Eldar as they battle humans and Tyranids on a contested planet. Built on the Panzer General II engine, it combines hex-based tactical gameplay with RPG-like unit progression and a story driven campaign. 👍 What It Does Well: Faithful 40K Atmosphere: The game does a solid job capturing the feel of the 40K universe, especially from the Eldars perspective—a rarity in games. Tactical Depth: Unit positioning, line-of-sight, and initiative play key roles, rewarding thoughtful planning. Progression and Customization: Units gain experience and can level up, with elite Eldar units even becoming Exarchs Multiple Campaigns: While the main story follows the Eldar, you can also play standalone scenarios as the Tyranids or Imperial forces. 👎 Where It Falls Short: Outdated Engine: The Panzer General II engine was already aging by 1999. While functional, it limits the game’s flexibility and visual appeal. Clunky Interface: The UI feels dated and unintuitive, especially by modern standards. Steep Learning Curve: The game throws a lot of mechanics at you quickly, and there's minimal hand-holding. 🎨 Presentation: Graphics: 2D, sprite-based visuals that are vibrant for the era but dated now.( Until someone makes a mod) Sound & Music: Atmospheric but repetitive—more functional than memorable. Narrative: The Eldar story is engaging for lore fans, but storytelling is mostly delivered through briefings and text. Who Should Play It: Warhammer 40K enthusiasts interested in the Eldar perspective. Fans of classic hex-based strategy games with RPG elements. Retro gamers looking to explore older 40K titles. Who Should Skip It: Players seeking modern visuals and streamlined interfaces. Thanks GOG for preservation program!