Version 1.1 of Oxide Games’ 4X title, *Ara: History Untold*, introduces enhancements including the addition of John A. Macdonald as a leader, featuring unique traits for defense and resource management. A new national economy screen simplifies resource oversight, while military functionality improvements allow unit modernization and detailed interactions. The update also includes new manufacturing items, an advisor system, modding capabilities, and a world map reflecting current geography. Future updates promise further enhancements in diplomacy, map editing, and trade.
Experience the Leadership of John A. Macdonald
While we found Oxide Games’ historical 4X title, Ara: History Untold, to be enjoyable, it was not without its shortcomings, particularly in terms of resource visibility. The latest update, version 1.1, introduces a host of enhancements designed to improve the overall gameplay experience. Among these updates, players can now access a new leader at no additional cost: John A. Macdonald. This former Canadian Prime Minister comes equipped with unique abilities centered around defense and efficient resource management. His “Disciplined” trait boosts government and military infrastructure by 50%, while “Pacifist” minimizes the strength of units outside his realm, promoting a defensive strategy. Additionally, his “Forester” trait enhances wood production, making it perfect for those focusing on resource accumulation.
A significant highlight of this update is the introduction of a national economy screen. This new feature streamlines resource management, reduces micromanagement, and allows players to set priorities and automate upgrades for manufactured items. After completing a game with John A. Macdonald, concentrating on production and economic growth, this tool proved invaluable in saving time. The ability to filter all factories with a single click and swiftly adjust manufactured resources is a major plus. Furthermore, upgrades are now clearly highlighted for those who have yet to activate automatic upgrading.
Enhanced Military Functionality
Though warfare is not the focal point of Ara: History Untold compared to other 4X titles, version 1.1 has introduced important improvements. Players can now modernize individual units, eliminating the need to disband older units, and gain insights into the costs and benefits of each upgrade. Additionally, the encounter overview has become more detailed, showcasing more coherent interactions between various units.
This update also brings several other features from the “Invisible Hand” expansion:
- New Manufacturing Items: Over a dozen new tools have been added, reflecting technological progress and enabling leaders to enhance national prosperity and stability.
- Advisor System: The newly implemented advisor system offers real-time guidance tailored to the selected leader and paragon, aiding players in making strategic choices throughout their journey.
- Modding Capabilities: The initial phase of modding support allows players to alter game files for easier integration of custom mods. Future updates will enable the creation of dedicated management mods for online sharing.
- World Map Availability: Players can now engage with a world map that aligns with contemporary geography. This map strikes a balance between historical accuracy and engaging gameplay, ensuring equitable positions for all nations. Regular updates will incorporate player feedback and introduce new nations.
Looking ahead, the developers have revealed a promising roadmap that includes enhancements for diplomacy, a map editor, naval warfare, supply chains, and trade routes.
Ara: History Untold is currently available on PC through Steam, Windows Games, and Xbox Game Pass.