Anno 117: Pax Romana, A Majestic Return to Roman City Building [Upcoming 2025 Game]

Anno 117: Pax Romana takes the beloved Anno franchise to its earliest historical setting yet: Ancient Rome at the height of its power in 117 AD. Developed by Ubisoft Mainz and published by Ubisoft, this eighth mainline entry combines deep economic simulation, strategic combat, and rich cultural storytelling.

Release Date and Platforms

• Release Date: November 13, 2025
• Platforms: PC (Ubisoft Connect / Steam / Epic Games), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

What’s New in Anno 117?

1. Ancient Rome Setting

For the first time, Anno returns to a historical era—trading steampunk and industrial aesthetics for Roman architecture, civic governance, and political intrigue during the Pax Romana.

2. Dual Starting Provinces: Latium and Albion

Players can choose between:

• the Roman province of Latium – the lush heartland of Rome, ideal for classical city planning.
• the Celtic Profince of Albion – the misty, rebellious Celtic frontier.

This choice affects early gameplay style and cultural influence dynamics.

3. Romanization vs. Celtic Traditions

Your governor’s decisions shape cultural evolution:

• Do you push Romanization—bringing togas and amphitheaters?
• Or preserve Celtic traditions with local crafts and rituals?

These choices impact aesthetics, production chains, local morale, and diplomacy.

4. Modular City‑Building

New systems include:

• Diagonal building placement
• “Influence zones” around structures
  These offer new strategy layers and design flexibility.

5. Economic Complexity & New Mechanics

• Optional citizen needs let players balance productivity and satisfaction.
• Resource chains now affect nearby buildings—making spatial planning critical.

6. Land and Naval Combat

• Ship battles feature modular upgrades (e.g., catapults, archer towers).
• For the first time in Anno: tactical land battles with field armies and skirmishes.

7. Deep Diplomacy & Faith System

Civil and religious decisions influence:

• Culture
• Alliances
• Regional loyalty

8. Immersive Microscopic to Macroscopic Detail

Zoom in to see:

• Citizens at markets or gladiator games
• Zoom out to admire vast trade networks and provincial economies

Why This Game Matters

• Long-awaited Ancient Rome setting – fans have requested it for years
• Balanced appeal – accessible to newcomers, deep enough for veterans
• Fresh mechanics – diagonal building, modular ships, cultural systems
• Mod support built-in – day-one mod tools and community support

Editions & DLC

• Multiple editions including a Governor’s Edition with physical and digital extras
• Three DLCs planned: The first DLC focuses on islands with volcanoes, potentially featuring volcanic eruptions. The second DLC is centered around the Circus Maximus and chariot racing. The third DLC will introduce content related to Egypt, including a new region and exploring pyramids.

Target Audiences

• Experienced builders seeking deep strategy
• Newcomers drawn by the Roman theme and gradual learning curve
• PC players excited for robust modding support

FAQs About Anno 117: Pax Romana

Q1: When is the release date?
A1: November 13, 2025 (PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S)

Q2: Can I start in different provinces?
A2: Yes, choose between the Roman province of Latium or the Celtic Profince of Albion with different gameplay styles

Q3: What platforms are supported?
A3: Ubisoft Connect, Steam, Epic Games, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S

Q4: Are there military mechanics?
A4: Yes, land armies and enhanced naval combat.

Q5: Is there mod support?
A5: Yes, Ubisoft is aiming for early mod support. The game will also have a mod browser, likely similar to Anno 1800's, to facilitate browsing and downloading mods.

Q6: Will there be DLCs?
A6: Yes, three major add-ons planned throughout 2026

Final Thoughts

Anno 117: Pax Romana blends intricate city-building, cultural strategy, and engaging warfare set in one of history’s most iconic empires. With refined mechanics, visual polish, and full mod support, it may be the most ambitious Anno yet.

Mark your calendars for November 13, 2025. The fate of Rome and your legacy awaits.