Empires in Arms

About

Empires in Arms is a turn-based strategy game set during the Napoleonic Wars from 1805 to 1815. You control one of seven major European powers vying for dominance through military conquest, diplomacy, and resource management. Each month you negotiate alliances, declare wars, and build armies composed of infantry, cavalry, and artillery. Battles unfold in simultaneous movement phases where corps clash using historical tactics and unit types. The game supports solo play against AI or turn-based multiplayer via email, letting you rewrite history by outmaneuvering rivals or emulating Napoleon’s campaigns. What sets it apart is the depth of its mechanics. Every decision impacts your nation’s economy and military strength, conquering territories funds new units while failed campaigns drain resources. Historical leaders like Nelson and Davout command units, adding authenticity to battles. With 12 years of strategic planning and shifting allegiances, the game rewards long-term thinking. Strategy fans praise its balance between accessibility and complexity, often noting the satisfaction of turning political gambles into territorial gains. Matrix Games’ 2007 release remains a staple for those craving tactical warfare blended with political intrigue.

Storyline

Take command of one of the many factions in early 19th century Europe! Empires in Arms is a grand strategy turn-based race to prove which nation is the greatest in Europe. In a bid for mastery over the continent, players can succeed where Napoleon failed or try to stop the military genius quicker than his historical enemies could! The game moves in monthly turns where diplomacy and builds are conducted. Within the monthly turns there are a variable number of impulses where corps and fleets move about. All movement is simultaneous with battles occurring at the end of the impulse. Battles are resolved by players both picking a strategy and fighting a series of rounds in an attempt to break the enemy. Make and break alliances, declare war, invade minor nations, propose peace terms, build armies of landwehr, regulars, guards, light cavalry, heavy cavalry and artillery. Many historical leaders from the period are included to command corps and fleets, from Admiral Nelson to Marshal Davout to the Pashas of the Ottoman Empires. Diplomacy and economics will complement the sharp bayonets and deadly cannons of your direct military might when you take the role of any of the major powers in 19th century Europe! As you conquer your weaker foes, use the money and resources from fallen nations to recruit new units and replenish your ranks. France, Great Britain, Prussia, Turkey, Russia, Spain and Austria all stand ready with their full resources, generals, armies and fleets for you to take command. Join the intricate and deadly contest of power that changed a continent and created a legend. The slightest mistake could be the difference between the crown of Europe or exile to St. Helena. Step into history and find your destiny in Empires in Arms!