Mastering Total War Pharaoh: Essential Tips for Beginners

Highlights

Each leader in Total War: Pharaoh has unique abilities and units, so research them before picking one to match one's playstyle and objectives.

1. Give priority to specific weapon types. Given that the game takes place during the Bronze Age, infantry and chariots constitute the primary units of the army. Emphasize weapons like swords and clubs, which excel at charging, as they are effective against archers and useful for executing flanking tactics.

2. Utilize outposts and monuments strategically. Outposts offer crucial enhancements for establishing a formidable army, while monuments and shrines elevate citizen morale. Place them strategically across the land and ensure that settlements near the coast are adequately fortified to prevent potential attacks from the Sea People.

Content Total War: Pharaoh maintains the well-known grand-strategy formula of the series while introducing new mechanics and systems that slightly alter gameplay. This may require some adjustment for longtime fans and can be overwhelming for first-time players. However, the game offers a user-friendly tutorial to assist players in quickly familiarizing themselves with the mechanics.

Nevertheless, early on, it is remarkably easy to make significant mistakes that hinder progress in acquiring influence and expanding territory, which are the primary objectives of the game. Understanding how to avoid these mistakes can greatly enhance the enjoyment and engagement of gameplay. Here are the key mistakes to avoid when starting a new game.

6 Don't Pick A Leader Randomly

When starting Total War: Pharaoh, players have the option to choose from 8 different leaders. While some may rush into the game without much thought, it is highly recommended to research and understand each leader's unique playstyle. This is because each leader possesses distinct units and buildings that allow them to excel in specific areas.

For instance, Ramesses is a versatile leader who may not amass the largest army compared to others, but he has access to elite units that are excellent at initiating flanking maneuvers. On the other hand, Irsu is an economical leader who uses his troops as expendable cannon fodder, making him a truly formidable force on the battlefield. However, he struggles to maintain a happy population. It is also important to note that each leader will start in different parts of the map, with some like Kurunta being located adjacent to resource-rich areas. Therefore, it is highly recommended to read the description of each leader and make a well-informed decision before starting the game.

5 Try To Prioritize A Specific Weapon Variant

Given the game's Bronze Age setting, armies in this game consist solely of infantry and chariots, lacking artillery or cavalry to eliminate enemy groups. Consequently, players must attentively consider weapon types and their functionality. It is highly recommended to test each weapon thoroughly due to their varying advantages and disadvantages. Prioritizing weapons suitable for charging is an excellent strategy as it proves the most effective and efficient approach for dealing with archers and executing flank maneuvers.

For charging bonuses, swords and clubs are the optimal weapons, recognized for their versatility and suitability in virtually any scenario. Naturally, the choice of weapon should depend on the player's situation. For instance, if the player selects Suppiluliuma, who finds themselves surrounded by enemies on all sides, defensive weapons like spears and slings are the preferred options. Given the game's emphasis on territorial expansion, equipping weapons that apply pressure to enemy camps and armies proves to be the most dependable choice.

4 Make Sure To Use Outposts And Monuments Strategically

Outposts may appear insignificant at first, but they play a crucial role in bolstering the strength of an army. Each territory can accommodate two to four Outposts, which should be erected without delay. Trading Posts are particularly vital as they not only boost the economy, but also lessen the upkeep modifier for passing armies.

Additionally, Monuments and Shrines offer cultural benefits that enhance citizen happiness. As such, it is essential to safeguard and entrust these structures to reliable hands. Waystations, on the other hand, grant troops complete immunity against desert attrition, making long marches through sandy environments significantly easier. Carelessly constructing Outposts in settlements when prompted can lead to an inefficient army and settlement. Thus, it is advisable to selectively position them in strategic locations.

3 Don't Leave Settlements Near The Coast Defenseless

Settlements and towns near the coastline are occasionally targeted by the enigmatic Sea People, causing significant disruptions. Even islands like Cyprus, located next to Kurunta, are not spared from their attacks. It is crucial to not leave these vulnerable areas defenseless, especially when the main army is engaged in patrols or campaigns.

The most effective approach to counter this threat is the construction of forts. These small structures enable the rapid deployment of cost-effective troops to repel invading forces. While maintaining a high Pillars of Civilization score can deter Sea People from attacking settlements, it is not always a feasible option. Hence, preparedness for these inevitable assaults is paramount to avoid being caught unprepared.

One particularly successful strategy, particularly suited for leaders like Irsu and Seti who possess vast armies, is to station a small defensive force within the settlement and another just outside it. This arrangement ensures that there is a force readily available to fend off attacks, with reinforcements nearby to provide assistance if necessary.

2 Don't Always Be The Aggressor

Every leader in Total War: Pharaoh excels in certain areas, but also comes with drawbacks that make them weak and inefficient in other aspects. While Seti and Irsu can easily amass forces and conquer lands, they struggle with keeping their people happy and lack diplomatic skills. On the other hand, Bay is skilled in manipulation and sabotage, but lacks prowess on the battlefield.

Though it may not seem like the wisest move, forming alliances with other leaders can help cover these weaknesses. Tausret and Seti already have improved diplomatic relations, making them a powerful duo right from the start. However, it is always beneficial to get along with others, regardless of the chosen leader.

1 Avoid Expanding Too Quickly

Expanding their territory too quickly is the biggest mistake many players, especially newcomers to the series, make. This can lead to a severe happiness penalty that can quickly spiral out of control if not addressed. To gain more Gratitude and Influence, it is crucial to maintain a high level of happiness among citizens and keep it in check.

To avoid the happiness penalty, players should focus on repairing and constructing buildings or Monuments that increase happiness once a new area of the map is conquered. It is also wise to take a moment to let things settle after acquiring new territory, to prevent them from escalating too rapidly.

Total War: Pharaoh

Platform(s) PCReleased October 11, 2023Developer(s) Creative AssemblyGenre(s) Turn-Based Strategy, Tactical, Grand Strategy