VGSources / Games / Illwinter Game Design
turn-based strategy video game
Dominions II: The Ascension Wars
By Illwinter Game Design, released 1 Jan 2003
- Microsoft Windows
- Linux
- Classic Mac OS
- strategy video game
- fantasy video game
What it is
Dominions II: The Ascension Wars is a turn-based fantasy strategy game from Illwinter Game Design, released in 2003. You play a pretender god seeking supremacy, leading one of seventeen cultures with distinct strengths and weaknesses. Shape your god by selecting a physical form and magical skills, and determine how your dominion influences the world. Soldiers and mages help you conquer neighboring lands, while priests and prophets spread your divine influence. The game supports one to seventeen players through single-player, hotseat, play-by-email, or TCP/IP play. Its roster includes more than 1,000 units, over 500 spells, and more than 300 magic items. Players can bid for mercenaries, build fortresses that must be besieged before assault, and fight large automatic battles. Heroes can gain abilities as their fame grows. Modding is possible. Listed platforms include Windows, Linux, and Classic Mac OS; the Steam listing names Windows and Linux.
What players like, and what they don't
- Choose from seventeen cultures with distinct strengths and weaknesses.
- Supports up to seventeen players through several play modes.
- Includes more than 1,000 units and 500 spells.
- God creation includes physical form and magical skills.
- Modding is possible.
- The Steam platform listing names Windows and Linux only.
- Fortresses must be besieged before they can be stormed.
Who it suits
It suits players looking for turn-based fantasy strategy with god creation, large armies, magic, and multiplayer options. Modding is also listed for players who want to modify the game.
Dominions II centers on competing gods, with dominion, armies, magic, and fortress sieges shaping the struggle. Its multiplayer modes and modding option make it relevant to groups seeking a strategy game to play and customize together.
