... And turn-based to boot! This game manages to blend the micro with the macro as well as dinosaurs with magic. The archaic interface of menu navigation masks complex mechanics behind amazing artwork in order to provide extreme replay value. The game breaks down into 10-to-15 turn rounds where the player is expected to balance resources and politics along with diplomacy and warfare. Most of these are player-driven with the chance for larger ramifications, but a few of them are random events that open new scenarios. For example, one of my favorite scenarios involves finding some mysterious eggs, which can hatch into triceratops. As I learned on an early play-through, these creatures might prove meddlesome, but on the other hand I later discovered they could also be trained into a valuable treasure. There are also roleplay opportunities galore. The "ring" of politicians organized as by the player will provide advice and skill that governs the outcome of the player's decisions. These characters have stats that improve and are capable of questing into the godly realm. One of my memorable ring members was a general that also possessed fair talent as a poet. After explorations into the lands of the dragonewt, he was asked to accompany them on some unknown errand. It was assumed that he would be eaten, but to the surprise of all he returned with gifts. These sort of scenarios are accompanied by frames of still art rather than animations, but the work is detailed and accurately portrays the various circumstances that arise. This aspect lends greatly to the simple interface. The music is authentic but repetitive. Fortunately, turn-based games are great with a binge watch or a playlist. Expect to do some research though! A great deal of information is presented in-game through lore, but other resources do a better job of presenting the information. This fact mostly speaks to the complexity of this game's deceptively simple features.
