This real-time strategy game where you train gladiators will keep you thinking about the Roman Empire daily

Blackthorn Arena - Remastered is an upcoming real-time strategy game where you train up a group of gladiators to beat down foes, and you can play soon.

As part of the Future Games Show at Gamescom Presented by Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII, we got a trailer featuring three of publisher Light Up Game's upcoming releases. One of them is a strategy sim that blends real-time and turn-based combat as you run an arena to hone the finest gladiators of the land.

You'll likely be familiar with the premise if you've played the original Blackthorn Arena on Steam. This one is set in a world of mythical monsters and classic fantasy races that evoke an era of Roman history.

Your primary focus is managing gladiators, training them before unleashing them in combat and enhancing their capabilities by equipping them with specific weapons and armor. Alongside six distinct classes, all with their own unique skills and attributes, you've got over 200 pieces of armor and weapons to pick from when making your fighter stand out. When you're not managing your arena or the gladiators inside of it, complete a range of quests and side missions to expand your influence and reputation.

Combat happens in real-time, though you can pause to issue commands and switch between automatic and manual controls. You've got a range of battles to pick from, too, as you can run one-on-one bouts, two-on-two scraps, and more. There are also special events and challenges to keep an eye out for. 

Blackthorn Arena - Remastered is coming to Steam this year.

If you’re looking for more excellent games from today's Future Games Show, have a look at our official Steam page .

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