Totems: Game of Conquest (2013)
Genres: StrategyBoard Games
| iOS |
Released: 2013-03-15Requirements
|
||
Tags:
WaronlinebattlefriendsfunskillchallengebuildlovematchEndlessChesssolitairecolorscolorsimplenumberswolfanimal
Description
Totems: Game of Conquest is a strategic board game that combines map exploration, territorial control, and tactical thinking. Drawing inspiration from classic games such as Risk, Carcassonne, Go, Stratego, as well as card games like Uno and Solitaire, Totems offers a gameplay experience that is easy to learn but challenging to master. The game has received high praise for its addictive gameplay, strategic depth, and replay value, making it a popular choice for players seeking both casual and competitive experiences.
Gameplay Overview
The gameplay of Totems revolves around claiming territories by placing carved animal pieces, known as totems, on a dynamic game map. Each turn, players strategically position matching totems on adjacent territories to expand their control. Victory is achieved by the player who dominates the most territories once the map is fully occupied. The game design is inspired by the renowned “4-Color Map Theorem,” which ensures that each map layout presents unique strategic challenges. Factors such as random totem distribution, shifting territory colors, diverse map designs, and the tactical approaches of opponents make every turn engaging and unpredictable.
Game Modes
Totems offers both offline and online gameplay options:
- Offline Mode: Challenge computer-controlled opponents of varying difficulty levels, from beginner to expert.
- Multiplayer Mode: Compete with friends via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for a more interactive and competitive experience.
- Online Mode: Engage in matches with random players worldwide at any time, testing your skills against a global community.
Opposing Generals A.I.
Players face five distinct generals: Scout, Warrior, Shaman, War Chief, and others. Each general possesses unique skills and personalities, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging. Success requires careful planning and adaptive strategies to outmaneuver each general's strengths and weaknesses.
Player Customization and Reputation
Totems allows players to personalize their gaming experience. Users can take a photo to create a custom in-game icon featuring their face. Additionally, every player receives an ELO rating, similar to chess, which indicates their relative skill level and experience to opponents, enhancing competitive gameplay and matchmaking accuracy.
Maps and Variability
The game includes a variety of maps, differing in size, number of territories, and strategic complexity. Regular updates provide new maps to maintain fresh challenges and strategic depth, ensuring that no two games are ever the same.
Graphics and Sound
Totems features high-definition visuals and immersive audio. Players experience realistic environmental sounds such as the wind, wolf cries, and moving clouds, adding depth to the board game atmosphere. A unique “Spaghetti Western” musical track enhances the overall gaming experience, making each match visually and audibly engaging.
Important Notes
For online play, registration through Game Center is required to access multiplayer features, track rankings, and maintain a competitive profile.
Critical Acclaim
- 148 Apps: Praises Totems as “addicting, a pleasure to play, and worthy of a permanent spot on your device.”
- App Advice: Highlights the game as “heavy on strategy but light on rules,” ensuring endless hours of gameplay.
- Pocket Tactics: Recognizes Totems for challenging conventional strategy gaming assumptions while remaining simple to learn, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5.
- App Store: Featured by Apple in the “Best New Games” category.
Our Verdict
Totems: Game of Conquest is a smart, addictive strategy game that is easy to pick up but challenging to master. Its mix of maps, changing territories, and clever opponents keeps every game feeling fresh and exciting. If you like thinking ahead and planning your moves, this game is a must-try.
The game works well both offline and online, letting you play against friends or AI opponents with different skills. The visuals and sounds are simple but charming, making it enjoyable without being overwhelming. Overall, Totems delivers solid strategy fun for any type of player.
We recommend Totems: Game of Conquest without hesitation. It’s engaging, replayable, and just plain fun—perfect for anyone who loves a good tactical challenge.