# Unlocking Playable Factions via Campaigns and DLC in Rome II
Total War: ROME II ??Emperor Edition is a well-loved strategy game that puts players in the middle of ancient Rome's political and military world. A key part of the game is being able to play as different factions, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and ways to play. This guide will show you how to unlock all factions in Total War: ROME II, helping you get more out of your game.
Understanding How Factions Are Unlocked
Before we get into the details of unlocking factions, it's good to know how they are grouped in Total War: ROME II. The game has both factions you can play as and those you can't. Playable factions are available from the start of a campaign, while others can be unlocked by doing certain things in the game or by buying DLCs.
Unlocking Factions Through Campaign Play
Many factions become available as you play through the game's campaigns. This method rewards players for their strategic progress and exploration.
Starting Factions
When you first start the game, several factions are ready to play. Each offers a different experience. For example, playing as Rome gives you a balanced military and economy, while Carthage focuses more on naval power.
Unlocking Additional Factions by Winning Campaigns
To unlock more factions, you need to complete specific campaigns. Here are some examples:
- The Seleucid Empire: Complete the ??ise of the Republic??campaign.
- The Parthian Empire: Win the ??mperial Campaign.??
The 'Cultural' Unlocking Method
Some factions can be unlocked by playing campaigns that relate to their culture or region. For instance, if you play as a Greek faction, you might unlock the Macedonian Kingdom by forming a confederation with them. This approach encourages players to try different cultures and strategies, making the game feel fresh. This also ties into the game's historical accuracy, which can be enhanced by advanced AI 3D historical asset generation for units and environments.
Unlocking Factions via Downloadable Content (DLCs)
Beyond campaign achievements, many factions are introduced through various DLC packs, offering immediate access to new gameplay experiences.
The Emperor Edition DLC
The Emperor Edition of Total War: ROME II includes extra factions. For example, the Pontus and Bactria factions are available with this edition. To play as them, you just need to buy the DLC through platforms like Steam.
Other DLCs
Several other DLCs add more playable factions:
- Caesar in Gaul: Unlocks Gallic tribes.
- Hannibal at the Gates: Unlocks Carthage and Iberian tribes.
It's always a good idea to check the Steam store for sales or bundles to get these DLCs at a better price.
Playing Fair: Ethical Considerations
While unlocking factions makes the game more fun, it's important to play fairly. Avoid using cheats or hacks to unlock factions, as this can spoil the game's challenge and your overall experience. Instead, enjoy the process of unlocking factions through regular gameplay, which offers a more satisfying reward.
Looking Ahead
As Total War: ROME II continues to be updated, players can expect new content and possibly more factions. Staying connected with the community through forums and social media can keep you informed about what's coming next. Unlocking all factions in Total War: ROME II ??Emperor Edition is a rewarding journey that expands your strategic choices and lets you fully enjoy the rich history of ancient warfare. Enjoy your conquests!