Rome

All roads lead to Rome, for hundreds of years Rome has been the center of civilisation, culture, art, math, science, and military dominance. With this in mind, you decide to visit the greatest empire to ever exist.

But in what era are we visiting Rome? It wasn’t always the sprawling empire we know it as. There are a few options you could take, right off the top.

Pre-republic/early republic - This was a time in which Rome was just switching from a bunch of sometimes warring clans to a unified republic. It was at this time that they began fighting with Hoplite formations like their Greek cousins, and where their wars were against other factions on the Italian Peninsula. If you choose here, you might unify the land and kickstart the empire a few hundred years early, molding Roman society in whatever way you choose.

Middle Republic - The Roman Republic has become a nation worthy of attention . . . too much attention. To the north, Barbarians from Gaul seek their riches. To the south, across the Mediterranean Sea, Carthage grows envious and jealous. This is a dark time for the Republic with such threats as the second Punic War, one of the most bloody conflict in European history until the First World War. There are many options here for you to choose from, you could be the leader of the army that put a stop to Hannibal or perhaps you could kickstart the military reforms early.

Late Republic/Early Empire - from the military reformations of Gaius Marius came a Legion that would conquer the world . . . well, not literally but you could certainly make it literal. This is a time of internal strife for the Republic, with generals now having the power over the army to do as they please. You can be Caesar, conquering the eighty-six tribes of Gaul and then marching on Rome, or you could be Octavian, forming the first ever Roman Empire.

Golden Age - from the first century CE to the second century CE, Rome was at its height. From here on, it comes crashing down. This starting point will be heavy in politics and not so much war . . . no major threat to war against really, but one could have a lot of fun playing around in Rome or in one of it’s holdings.

End of an Empire - Rome is falling. This is the end for the Empire of Rome. whether it be barbarian invasions, infighting, or the ravages of disease, Rome is falling. You can be the hero Rome needs, the saviour it prays for in this dark time. Whether it be retaking lost lands or simply being the guardian against the darkness.

There are many starting points to choose from, this is only a small list. But you know what you want to do from here.