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The enduring popularity of Endless Legend, a standout 4X strategy game, is evident in the continuous support it receives from both its community and developers, even two years after its release. This makes the acquisition of Amplitude Studios by SEGA in July 2016, bringing the Endless universe under the same roof as Total War and Company of Heroes, both surprising and intriguing. This review dives into the Tempest expansion for Endless Legend, released in mid-October 2016, exploring the significant changes it brings to the core gameplay experience.

Endless Legend: Tempest – The Morgawr

The Morgawr: Auriga’s Cthulhu-esque Masters of the Sea

Tempest introduces the Morgawr, a new faction with a distinct Cthulhu-esque flavor. Their affinity for the ocean shapes their gameplay. They thrive in aquatic environments, boosting their Production in water, extracting Dust from rivers and lakes, and conducting trade exclusively across the seas. This maritime focus sets them apart from other factions. Instead of prioritizing land expansion, the Morgawr focus on establishing naval dominance. Control of Fortresses and Bastions secures maritime territories, providing essential FIDS resources. These strongholds can be captured either through force or by completing specific tasks. Some are guarded by powerful roaming minor faction fleets, adding a layer of challenge to their acquisition.

The ocean itself holds numerous hidden rewards and side quests, tucked away in ancient ruins and shipwrecks. To compensate for their limited land-based military strength, the Morgawr can exert control over minor factions using a relatively small amount of Influence. This “Castpaw” ability, combined with their capacity to assimilate up to three minor factions, allows them to build a formidable land force.

Endless Legend: Tempest – Exploring the Oceans

Opportunistic Gameplay and Enhanced Naval Warfare

The Morgawr’s “Black Spot” ability curses another faction, making them vulnerable after losing units. This allows the Morgawr to seize control of enemy maritime territories without direct conflict. This opportunistic playstyle suits players who prefer cunning tactics over straightforward expansion. Their dependence on map geography and starting location is balanced by their ability to disrupt enemy territory, particularly in island-rich areas. Their naval units can effectively block enemy reinforcements and retreats.

Tempest also enhances the existing weather system, impacting naval combat. Familiar summer and winter cycles are joined by new oceanic weather patterns. Favorable winds reduce unit movement time, while headwinds increase it. Fog provides cover for movement, and lightning strikes can randomly damage unsuspecting units. These elements add a layer of strategic depth, allowing players to manipulate the environment to their advantage.

New Naval Units for All Factions

The changes introduced by Tempest are not exclusive to the Morgawr. All factions receive new naval units, ranging from standard Frigates to submersible vessels capable of underwater stealth. This creates a more balanced and engaging naval warfare experience for all players. These additions enrich the strategic landscape, encouraging players to adapt their tactics and explore new approaches to conquest and dominance.

Conclusion: A Tempestuous Tide of Change

Endless Legend: Tempest breathes new life into Auriga with the introduction of the Morgawr and a revamped naval warfare system. The Morgawr’s unique gameplay mechanics offer a refreshing alternative to traditional 4X strategies, while the enhanced weather system and new naval units add depth and complexity for all factions. This expansion solidifies Endless Legend‘s position as a compelling and evolving strategy experience.

Game Information

• Developer: Amplitude Studios
• Publisher: SEGA
• Genre: Strategy
• Release Date: October 14, 2016
• Platform: PC

Minimum System Requirements

• CPU: 3.5Ghz Intel Core i5
• RAM: 8GB
• VGA: 1GB nVidia Geforce GTX660/1GB ATI HD7850
• HDD: 5GB

Recommended System Requirements

• CPU: Intel Pentium G3420 3.2Ghz
• RAM: 8 GB
• VGA: Sapphire AMD Radeon R7 260X 2GB Edition
• HDD: 1TB