Cradle of Rome

Generations of Latin scholars could have been saved the pain of learning about Roman emperors’ military endeavors and political machinations had history followed the path of Cradle of Rome. In the game, the mighty ancient city is constructed via the collection of food, resources and cash in a tile-sliding puzzle. No bloodshed, no diplomatic wrangling, just lots of tiny tiles with pictures of coins, ham or logs on them. There is a degree of strategy, as certain amounts of money or food are needed for each item, so as well as clearing the grid you’re trying to do so by matching more coins than ham, for instance. But the graphics are murky and the whole thing feels sluggish. Save your sesterces (Roman coins, as any of those Latin scholars will tell you) for something else.

Nov 19, 2008