Metascore
77 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 15
  2. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. 88
    Sure they added some new things like Ancestors (pretty much like gods), the Chinese zodiac signs, new ways of dealing with farming, and multiplayer options for the first time as well as the obligatory improvements to interface. But there isn't really anything here that we haven't already gone through in ancient Rome, Egypt, or Greece.
  2. A fun and satisfying management game, ... [but] if "Zeus" was two steps forward for the series, Emperor is its one step back.
  3. A gorgeous, challenging and thoroughly enjoyable civilization game.
  4. Another great city-builder from a developer that has come to define a niche genre all its own. [Sept 2002, p.93]
  5. 85
    It's not all that new and not all that different from the other games in Sierra's classic "City Building" franchise -- but it's loads of fun all the same.
  6. Well made, but perhaps not remarkably exceptional. In its craftsmanship, it continues to be one of the best urban planning games, par excellence.
  7. Even the addition of online multiplayer gaming doesn't do enough to overcome a sense of sameness, continuing problems with the combat system, and the absence of involving mission goals.
  8. Impressions did a good job of refining the gameplay with this installment.
  9. Offers more of the same good stuff, but no real creative innovation. [Nov 2002, p.128]
  10. A solid bit of urban planning in an interesting new setting. Period. [Nov 2002, p.88]
  11. 61
    The game was enjoyable for a few levels. Definitely not $40 worth of levels, though.
  12. Those of you who spent months playing "Caesar III" or "Zeus" can give this game a miss, as it won't bring them anything new at all.
  13. Offers up the delight of "RollerCoaster Tycoon" with a historical bent and a sharp, colorful Asian edge. [Nov 2002, p.126]
  14. A good single player building game that, although has improvements, lacks long-term gameplay abilities.
  15. An impressive game that reeks of addictive potential. If the despot in you wants some exercising, then this is definitely the way to go.
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 13 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 6
  2. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. I think it's the best city builder published by Sierra Entertainment Inc. It's very similar to Pharaoh and Caesar games (produced by Impressions Games). Unfortunately there is no tutorial, but unlike Pharaoh and Caesar citizens are able to work at every place (their houses don't need to be built so close to it) and you can also build a special wall around houses which allows them to grow (it prevents the bad influence of work places). Full Review »
  2. 10
    Definitely one of the best city-builders of all time and a must-have for every fan of the genre. It's a shame that these days we don't have such games made anymore. Full Review »
  3. T.homasB.
    10
    One of the, if not the, best city builder games i have ever tried. beautiful, has a good feel and can make you addicted. this must a must to every city builder. Full Review »