Salammbo: Battle for Carthage

Cryo Interactive

Rank: #1 / 7
Released: 2003
Studio: Cryo Interactive
Genre: graphic adventure game, historical video game

At a glance

Salammbo: Battle for Carthage is a historical graphic adventure from Cryo Interactive, set during the First Punic War. The Romans have overrun Carthage, and Salammbo, daughter of the Carthaginian commander, falls in love with Matho, leader of the mercenaries besieging the city over unpaid services. The story asks players to deliver Salammbo’s message before it is too late. Inspired by Gustave Flaubert’s novel and the work of Phillippe Druillet, the game presents a dark world that includes gardens filled with poisonous fumes and Mount Solitude. Its 360-degree panoramas are accompanied by a score from Dvorak’s New World Symphony. A sequence of 3D frescoes serves as a player’s journal, recapping the adventure and offering views of ancient history. The game is single-player, listed for Windows, and includes Family Sharing on Steam. Microids is its publisher.

Who it is for

It suits players interested in historical graphic adventures, ancient Carthage, and a story involving Salammbo and Matho. The 360-degree panoramas and fresco journal may appeal to players who value atmospheric presentation and story recaps.

What is good

Historical setting during the First Punic War.
360-degree panoramas present the game world.
3D frescoes form an adventure journal.
Family Sharing is listed.

What to know first

Listed for Windows only.
Single-player only.

Verdict

Salammbo: Battle for Carthage pairs a historical conflict with a message-delivery adventure and a distinctive panorama-and-fresco presentation. Its listing is for single-player Windows play.