New DLC for Anno 117: Pax Romana Set to Launch on April 23
The first downloadable content (DLC) for Anno 117: Pax Romana, titled Prophecies of Ash, is scheduled for release on April 23. This expansion introduces players to Cinis, the largest island in the series’ history, featuring an active volcano that can both enhance and hinder civilization. With the new content comes a set of challenges and opportunities that players must navigate to thrive in this evolving landscape.
Exploring Cinis and Its Volcanic Challenges
Prophecies of Ash expands the province of Latium by adding new islands, including the expansive continental island of Cinis. This DLC introduces a new deity, Vulcan, along with obsidian as a new resource linked to two additional production chains. Players will find themselves managing not only their cities but also the unpredictable nature of volcanic eruptions that can impact their settlements significantly.
The volcano on Cinis is central to gameplay in this DLC. It will erupt at intervals, presenting players with various phases that come with both threats and benefits. Eruptions may cause tremors that damage infrastructure, raining fiery rocks from above while also covering islands in ash. However, after eruptions, players can benefit from a bloom phase where fertilized soil boosts agricultural productivity.
Developer Tips for Navigating Volcanic Eruptions
To help players tackle the challenges posed by the volcano, developers have shared several strategic tips:
1. Customize Your Gameplay Experience
Before volcanic activity begins, players can adjust settings related to volcano gameplay. Options include determining the strength of initial tremors and whether falling rocks will contain obsidian. A tutorial option is also available to guide newcomers through the new mechanics.
2. Establish Fire Stations
During eruptions, having fire stations strategically placed across your island can mitigate fire damage caused by falling rocks and lava. Additionally, invoking boons from deities like Neptune or Vulcan can enhance fire safety in affected areas. Understanding that nature’s fury cannot be entirely controlled is crucial; preparation is key to minimizing damage.
3. Stockpile Essential Resources
The greatest threat during volcanic phases often stems from production debuffs affecting mines, farms, and fisheries. Players are advised to maintain well-stocked warehouses with essential supplies for their population. Upgrading trading posts and building depots will increase storage capacity and ensure resources are available during challenging times.
- Vulcan enhances mining productivity.
- Ceres boosts agricultural output.
- Neptune improves fishing yields.
4. Exploit Obsidian Resources
The aftermath of volcanic eruptions leaves behind valuable obsidian deposits that can be harvested if players have researched the necessary technology. Obsidian plays a crucial role in new production chains that provide bonuses to populations, helping them withstand negative impacts from volcanic activity.
5. Maximize the Bloom Phase Buff
Following each eruption, volcanic ash enriches the soil on Cinis, leading to increased productivity for agricultural buildings—up to a 50 percent boost with each eruption endured. This cyclical benefit allows players to grow stronger as they adapt to challenges while utilizing obsidian effectively for various needs.
6. Disable Volcanic Activity If Necessary
If managing volcanic disruptions proves too cumbersome for those focused on city-building ambitions on Cinis, players have the option to disable volcanic eruptions entirely through gameplay settings. However, this choice comes at a cost; obsidian deposits will not refill without eruptions, limiting access to new production chains and specialists.
The Release Details and Future Implications
The Prophecies of Ash DLC will be available for individual purchase or included with Anno 117: Pax Romana’s Gold Edition or Season Pass starting April 23 on Xbox Series X|S. Players can also access it through a Ubisoft+ Premium subscription.
What This Means for Players
The introduction of Prophecies of Ash marks an exciting expansion for Anno 117: Pax Romana enthusiasts eager to explore new gameplay mechanics tied to volcanic activity and resource management. With strategic planning and adaptability being essential themes in this DLC, players are encouraged to embrace both the risks and rewards presented by Cinis’s dynamic environment. As they build their civilizations amidst natural challenges, they must balance growth with resilience—an engaging prospect for fans of city-building simulations.
For more information, read the original report here.
