Stronghold 2: Steam Edition

Stronghold 2: Steam Edition is a strategy about a medieval castle, where economy and defense are directly connected. The player manages the farm, monitors the mood of the peasants and builds fortifications, and then fights off the neighbors. The economy is arranged in detail: fields, mills, bakeries, sawmills and markets supply the castle with everything it needs. In addition to wars, there is the management of the castle with its orders, punishments and holidays, and the discontent of the residents turns into problems. Sieges require planning: ladders, catapults and digging against walls and ditches. The edition for a convenient digital platform added support for multiplayer and minor edits. The design looked elegant for its time, and the voice acting was memorable with its lines. There is a lot of work: peasants plow, millers grind, and guards keep order, and all this requires supervision. Sieges follow the rules: while ladders are carried towards the wall, archers and catapults keep the defenders on their toes. Events such as feasts and punishments influence the attitude of the inhabitants towards the lord. In addition to the campaign, there are separate maps for defense and attack, including historical battles. Some maps are designed to protect the castle from several waves, and then roads and ditches decide the outcome. Feasts and celebrations lift spirits, but cost money and provisions. Mercenary units can be used for attacks, and this is another expense item. Improvements to walls and towers are unlocked gradually, along with the development of the economy. For those who love to build and defend, the game provides a rare combination of both activities.