This 2023 strategy expansion introduces the Laterano civilization, led by Fiammetta, to the core experience. Gameplay centers on managing this new faction, utilizing its unique leader traits, the Laterano Notarial Hall district, specialized units, and a unique city project to achieve victory. It adds new strategic depth through these distinct faction mechanics.
As an expansion, this content integrates directly into the existing 4X (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) loop of the base game. Players select the Laterano civilization to begin a new campaign or integrate them into existing games. The primary focus shifts to leveraging the specific advantages and mechanics granted by this new faction to achieve victory conditions.
The Laterano civilization brings several unique assets that alter strategic decision-making:
The addition of the Laterano civilization emphasizes specific strategic pathways, often revolving around their unique district and leader abilities. Players must adapt their city planning and research priorities to maximize the inherent strengths of the Laterano infrastructure, creating a fresh challenge even for experienced players of the base game.
A specific unique city project is available exclusively to the Laterano civilization. This project requires dedicated resource investment but yields substantial, often game-altering, rewards upon completion, influencing the overall pacing of the mid-to-late game.
The expansion also introduces unique mechanics related to the Governor system, featuring a new Governor whose abilities synergize directly with the Laterano civilization's overall design philosophy.
Since its release in early 2023, this content has been stable, functioning as an established addition to the overall game experience. Community feedback generally focuses on the balance implications of the Laterano faction's unique strengths within the established game meta, particularly concerning their unique district and leader bonuses.