Urban Empire

Urban Empire

Released Jan 2017

Urban Empire is a ‘City Ruler’, pioneering a new breed of strategy game that combines city builder features with political scheming and adds profound social and historical events into the mix, creating a whole new gameplay experience.

34% positive · 2,462 reviews
Done
All announced content has been released
High confidence
Done
All announced content has been released
High confidence

Where to buy

Prices in USD, as listed by each store.
Buying through an affiliate store helps support the site

Evaluation

Urban Empire launched on January 20, 2017. Following release, the developer issued several bug-fix hotfixes in the days immediately after launch, then shipped one meaningful post-launch content drop: the free DLC bundled with update v1.2.1.1 on May 31, 2017, which added new scenarios, dynamic events, edicts, institutions, parties, and inventions. That update represents the only major content release after launch. There have been no developer communications of any kind since May 31, 2017 — nearly nine years ago. No additional DLC has been announced or listed on the store, no roadmap was ever published, and no further content has been promised. The game launched as a complete, finished product and received one post-launch content update before all developer activity ceased. There is nothing indicating further content is planned or in development.
Evidence
Free DLC shipped with update v1.2.1.1, adding new scenarios, dynamic events, edicts, institutions, parties, and inventions. This is the last developer communication on record.
news post · May 31, 2017 source content shipped
high
Post-launch hotfix addressing localization and gameplay bugs shortly after release.
news post · Jan 26, 2017 source development ongoing
low

Media

Details

Developer
Publisher
Kalypso Media Digital
Achievements
74
Platform
Windows
Controller
—
Steam Deck
Unsupported
Players
Single-player

About this game

In Urban Empire you take control of a mayoral dynasty and lead your city and people through 200 years of history. Establish infrastructures, plan city districts, debate political decisions at the town council, bribe or blackmail your opponents, empower the democratic rights of your people or ignore them and reign supremely by yourself – the decision is yours!

Beginning in the 1820s, establish your city through five different eras, each with its own threats and opportunities. Master the challenges of the centuries, face political struggles, experience world-changing events and pioneering inventions, and create your own unique Urban Empire!

Urban Empire is a ‘City Ruler’, pioneering a new breed of strategy game that combines city builder features with political scheming and adds profound social and historical events into the mix, creating a whole new gameplay experience where players must employ strategic planning and political savvy to successfully grow their cities in their role as Mayor.



    City Ruler, not City Builder: Urban Empire offers a unique combination of classic city building and political management gameplay. Take on the role of a mayor, be a political mastermind and prove your skills by prevailing against opposing parties and guiding your city through technological evolutions and ideological revolutions.
    Choose from 4 ruling families with 5 characters each, like the equal rights and social justice advocates the Kilgannons, or the Sant’Elias, who focus on scientific progress and the pursuit of knowledge.
    Create and manage city districts on a large scale and fulfil your citizens’ needs – such as happiness, safety, and public services.
    Introduce new ideas and technologies, like the electric tram, antibiotics or video games and use your power to convince the city council of your political agenda.
    Up to 1000 dynamic events represent the twists and turns of urban life: make and influence decisions on issues such as women’s rights, the hippie movement, and child labor.
Last evaluated Jun 28, 2026
Something about this evaluation looks wrong Report illegal or harmful content