Romance of the Three Kingdoms

Romance of the Three Kingdoms is a 1989 DOS strategy game based on the famous historical period of ancient China, where rival warlords compete for territory, influence, and ultimately control of the country. Players manage armies, resources, officers, diplomacy, and political relationships, making the game considerably more complicated than simply pointing an army at the nearest enemy. Strategy matters at every level, because a powerful general is useful, but so are food supplies, loyal officers, and sensible alliances. The historical setting gives the campaign a grand sense of scale, while the game's systems create plenty of room for unexpected twists. Romance of the Three Kingdoms is the sort of strategy title where a diplomatic conversation can be just as important as a battlefield victory. After all, conquering China is difficult enough without having to fight absolutely everyone at the same time.