Warlords (1990 video game)

Warlords is a fantasy-themed, turn-based strategy video game released in 1990, developed by Strategic Studies Group (SSG). It is the first game in the Warlords series. The game is set in the mythical land of Illuria, where several warlords vie for control of the entire territory.

Gameplay revolves around recruiting heroes, raising armies, and capturing cities. Players take turns moving their armies across the map, battling enemy forces, and besieging cities. Each warlord controls a specific race, such as humans, elves, dwarves, or orcs, each with unique units and strengths. Diplomacy plays a minimal role; conquest is the primary objective.

Heroes are powerful units that can lead armies and possess special abilities. They gain experience through combat, becoming more effective in battle. Cities serve as the economic and military centers of each faction, generating income and allowing the recruitment of new units. Strategic resource management is crucial for sustaining a large army and expanding territory.

Warlords was initially released for DOS and later ported to other platforms. It is noted for its accessible gameplay, strategic depth, and replayability. It spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, contributing to the popularity of the turn-based strategy genre. The game's success lies in its blend of simple mechanics with tactical choices, making it appealing to both casual and hardcore strategy game enthusiasts.