Ancient Relics

Released: 6/4/2019 · Price: ~$15 (check the Steam store for current pricing) · Rating 4.2/5

Ancient Relics builds a full archaeology system around digging into ancient ruins — turning “investigate an anomaly” into something closer to a complete gameplay loop, paired with relics that give the mid-game exploration phase plenty of fresh targets.

What’s actually in it

Archaeological sites are typically staged, and each stage may branch into different choices, with the final relic reward usually carrying either a unique strategic or story effect. This system has a noticeably different rhythm from a traditional anomaly like the Enigmatic Fortress — it leans into sustained exploration pacing.

Who should buy this

If you enjoy “fight and explore at the same time, unlocking story as you go,” this expansion fits that rhythm very well. If you prioritize clear numerical power gains, you may find the direct strategic payoff less pronounced than expansions like Utopia or Apocalypse.

What's Included

Pros

  • The archaeology system meaningfully enriches exploration-phase content
  • Relics offer an interesting mix of strategic and story-driven choices

Cons

  • Leans narrative-heavy; the systemic numeric payoff is less obvious than some core expansions

Is It Worth It?

Players who enjoy exploration content and digging into ancient-civilization lore will love this. Purely numbers-focused players may find the direct strategic payoff less pronounced than some core expansions.