0 A.D. Real-Time Strategy Game

0 A.D. (pronounced 'zero ey-dee') is a free and open-source real-time strategy (RTS) game of ancient warfare, developed by Wildfire Games (a community of volunteer developers, artists, and musicians). Development began in 2001 as a mod for Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings, and the project became standalone in 2003. As of 2024, the game is in its 26th alpha release (Alpha 26: Zhuangzi). Key features: historical setting: the game covers the period between 500 BC and 1 BC, featuring civilizations including Athens, Sparta, Macedonia, Rome, Carthage, Iberia, Persia, Maurya (ancient India), Britons, Gauls, Kushites, and Han (Chinese). Each civilization has unique units, buildings, and technologies based on historical research. Gameplay: classic RTS mechanics including resource gathering (food, wood, stone, metal), building construction, technology research, unit training, and military combat. Features infantry, cavalry, siege weapons, naval units, heroes with special abilities, and formation-based combat. Pyrogenesis engine: the game runs on a custom open-source engine written in C++, featuring 3D graphics with dynamic lighting, shadows, water effects, and particle effects. Atlas scenario editor: built-in map and scenario editor for creating custom game maps and campaigns. Multiplayer: networked multiplayer via lobby server with up to 8 players, supporting free-for-all, team, and cooperative modes. AI opponents: built-in Petra bot for single-player skirmish games with adjustable difficulty. Modding: extensive modding support with JavaScript-based scripting, custom art assets, and configurable game data. Cross-platform: Windows, macOS, Linux. CC-BY-SA (art) / GPLv2 (engine).