Empires of the Undergrowth: Complete (v1.101071 & 2 DLCS)

Empires of the Undergrowth invites players into the fascinating subterranean world of ants, blending real-time strategy with intricate colony management. Beginning at the heart of your nest, where the queen resides, you must oversee the construction and expansion of an elaborate underground empire, directing workers to dig tunnels, build nurseries, and store food. The game challenges you to balance resource gathering, nest maintenance, and defense against a variety of threats—from rival ant colonies to predatory insects and larger creatures like amphibians and beetles. Each decision carries weight, as food scarcity can halt reinforcements and leave your colony vulnerable, while nighttime expeditions bring added danger and opportunity. The hex-based terrain and dynamic environments encourage exploration above and below ground, offering diverse food sources that come with their own risks and strategic considerations. Combat plays a central role as you command different ant species, each with unique abilities and evolutionary paths that influence your tactics. From trap-jaw ants that leap back to recover health to wood ants capable of firing formic acid artillery, mastering their strengths and coordinating specialized pheromone groups is key to survival and dominance. Battles unfold across multiple maps where you must defend your queen and launch assaults on enemy nests, all while adapting to evolving threats. The game also features a narrative-driven campaign intertwined with a documentary series, exploring ant biology alongside a mysterious laboratory experiment involving gene-thief ants. Success rewards players with resources to upgrade their colony and unlock new strategies, ensuring that no two playthroughs feel the same in this immersive, scientifically inspired RTS experience.