Et tu, strategic readers? There are, I suppose (and it's not an original thought), two kinds of games players: those who like lots of fast action, colourful graphics, and wizard sound effects; and the strategy players. Although I enjoy all kinds of games, I prefer those with at least an element of strategy. Cue Annals of Rome, the latest from PSS. Strategy is all in this recreation of the days of the Roman Empire - and I couldn't stop playing it. Unusually, you play no one person or group. You are the collective voice of the Senate - and regardless of internal politics, coups bloodless or otherwise, and the deaths of emperors, the safety of Rome - and the welfare of the Empire is in your hands. Actual gameplay is at first complicated, but soon becomes straightforward. You have 21 officers at your disposal, of varying ability and loyalty, and it is up to you to allocate command of the Empire's military resources.  
You then carry out campaigns against neighbouring states, using your troops either to invade or to reinforce existing garrisons. Of course, all warfare is expensive, so acquiring new territory is crucial since the citizens of Rome will not tolerate too much taxation. You can only move troops between neighbouring countries, and establishing bridgeheads around Europe becomes a top priority. From those you can launch your major expeditions. After countries have been occupied for a while they become Romanised and will provide auxiliary troops. In addition to subjugating the locals, you also have to watch what's happening back in Rome, and look out for rival nations on the rise. These change as the game pro-
gresses as former superpowers like Egypt and Thrace are replaced by emergent races like the Vandals and Goths. The screen display is well thought out and colourful with a map of Europe, North Africa and the Near East forming the major element, and subscreens showing how your armies are faring, and details of your 21 officers. Annals of Rome does not concern itself with individual battles and campaigns. Instead it concentrates on the wider sweep of history, the ebb and flow of empires, and the fates of groups hundreds of thousands strong.
If you take your strategy games seriously, or even if you're an arcade gamer who likes the occasional mental challenge, Annals of Rome is very nearly a perfect choice. Peter Worlock , PCW | 
