Total Annihilation: Kingdoms
In short: Total Annihilation: Kingdoms is a strategy game released in 1999 by Cavedog Entertainment, available on PC. Our score: 8.0/10 (worth buying, especially on sale).
Total Annihilation: Kingdoms is a real-time strategy game set in the fantasy world of Darien. Players command armies and build bases to conquer rival kingdoms.
Total Annihilation: Kingdoms is a captivating real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Cavedog Entertainment, released in 1999. Diverging from its sci-fi predecessor, Total Annihilation, Kingdoms immerses players in the vibrant and war-torn fantasy world of Darien. The game's rich lore revolves around four warring siblings, each wielding unique magical powers and commanding distinct factions: Aramon (humans), Veruna (sea creatures/elves), Zhon (undead/demons), and Taros (beastfolk/druids). Players choose one of these factions and embark on an epic quest to unite Darien under their rule, utilizing a blend of strategic resource management, base building, and large-scale army combat. The core gameplay loop involves gathering mana and metal, the two primary resources, to construct a thriving base and train a diverse array of units. Each faction boasts a unique roster of structures and units, ranging from basic foot soldiers and archers to powerful magical creatures, siege weapons, and formidable heroes. The game's engine, a refined version of the one used in Total Annihilation, allows for massive battles with hundreds of units clashing simultaneously, creating a truly grand and chaotic spectacle. The strategic depth comes from understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each unit and faction, as well as mastering terrain advantages and defensive fortifications. Kingdoms distinguishes itself with its emphasis on magic. While traditional RTS elements like unit production and b…
Game details
- Developer: Cavedog Entertainment
- Publisher: GT Interactive
- Release year: 1999
- Platforms: PC
- Category: strategy
Our review
Total Annihilation: Kingdoms offers a unique fantasy RTS experience. While the graphics show their age, the deep factional diversity, engaging story, and emphasis on magical combat make it a rewarding play. The scale of battles is impressive, and the strategic depth ensures high replay value.
Pros
- Deep factional diversity with unique units and spells
- Engaging fantasy storyline
- Massive battles with hundreds of units
- Strategic depth and replayability
- Innovative magic system
Cons
- Outdated graphics
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
- Pathfinding can be clunky at times
- Some balance issues between factions
FAQ
- Is Total Annihilation: Kingdoms a standalone game?
- Yes, Total Annihilation: Kingdoms is a standalone game and does not require the original Total Annihilation to play.
- What are the main differences between Kingdoms and the original Total Annihilation?
- The main difference is the setting: Kingdoms is fantasy-themed with magic and different factions, while the original TA is sci-fi with robots. Kingdoms also features a more elaborate story and hero units.
- Are there any modern patches or community support for Kingdoms?
- While official support has long ceased, a dedicated community still exists and has created unofficial patches and tools to improve compatibility and gameplay on modern systems. Fan-made content and multiplayer servers can sometimes be found.
- Which faction is best for beginners?
- Aramon is generally considered the most straightforward faction for beginners due to their balanced units and traditional RTS playstyle, making them easier to learn the game's mechanics.
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Last updated: 04/04/2026