Age of Wonders III Previews

While you're likely still busy with the batch of new Age of Wonders III screenshots that erupted from last week's Gamescom, I'm still going to point you over to a couple of new demo-based previews as well.

We start off at Attack of the Fanboy:
Realistically, it is unlikely to have the absolute depth of a game like Civilizations V, but it still has a lot of, potentially, redeeming features. For example, instead of merely having battles that auto-resolve themselves as a result of maths, you will be able to fight the battles on a tactical scale (which is also turn-based) once you begin an engagement on the main campaign map where you do the things one would do to expand an empire like settling new cities and mining through mountains.

There will also be aspects of gameplay similar to the Total War series with the creation of army stacks that include military units that are lead by special leader units. These units will then be the ones you will be maneuvering on the battle map during battles.

And then pay a visit to GameInformer for some more:
Age of Wonders is still about exploring huge maps, facing off against up to eight rival kingdoms, and battling for resources and land. Players can choose leader classes like steampunk Dreadnoughts or cunning Rogues and build a city in their image. Dreadnought cities might excel in machine works, while a city led by a conniving Rogue could boast extra diplomatic options. Age of Wonders III offers online matches, asynchronous email-based warfare, and a story-driven single-player campaign.

Age of Wonders III has been partially funded by Minecraft creator Markus "Notch" Persson. The game is coming to Steam, GOG, and retail next year.