DESCRIPTION

Medieval II: Total War features both long-term empire building and real-time combat. The game is set during a bloody time in Western history, from 1080 to 1530, and features hundreds of historical battlefields across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. Players can choose to lead European groups such as the English and the French, African factions including Egyptians and Moors, the Aztecs, or one of many other rising nations. In a single-player campaign, a gamer's goal is to create and expand an empire into the largest ruling power in the world.

Players may command over 10,000 troops and recruit hundreds of unit types including Naffatun, gothic knights, coyote priests, jaguar warriors, and conquistadors. Multiplayer action is available for up to eight players through a LAN or Internet connection. Several gameplay options include a "Custom Battle," where players decide the terms for winning, and which map and units are used. Gamers may also select an era to fight in such as early, high, and late. Each selection affects which weapons, troops, and armor are used for battle. Another option is selecting a pre-existing "Battle Scenario" for one-on-one, two-on-two, or three-on-two competitions. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide