Play One of 2025’s Top-Rated Strategy Games for Free for a Limited Time

Strategy enthusiasts have a golden opportunity to experience one of last year’s most acclaimed simulation titles at no cost. Ubisoft has announced a limited-time free-to-play window for Anno 117: Pax Romana, running from February 26 through March 2.

Set during the height of the Roman Empire—an era defined by unprecedented expansion and internal stability—Anno 117: Pax Romana casts players as a Roman governor tasked with managing either the heartlands of Latium or the untamed Celtic territories of Albion. The gameplay focuses on cultivating a robust economy and defining the cultural fabric of your provinces, even down to the deities your citizens worship. The title has earned significant critical praise, maintaining an impressive 83 score on OpenCritic. Reviews highlighted its polished user interface, with Polygon noting that it delivers a “spectacular” city-building experience that manages to be both tranquil and tactically demanding. However, the game did face scrutiny regarding its incorporation of generative AI artwork during its development.

Ubisoft also provided a glimpse into the game’s future via a stylized live-action trailer. The upcoming Year 1 Pass is set to introduce fresh environments, new deities, and additional military units. Fans can expect the first major DLC expansion to arrive in April 2026.

The free trial period commences on Thursday, February 26, and wraps up on Monday, March 2. Additionally, players who link their Ubisoft and Twitch accounts can secure exclusive in-game rewards. By watching Anno 117: Pax Romana streams, viewers can unlock the Callinectes and Venusian Shell logos through Twitch drops, which will remain available until March 12.

Source: Polygon