Black & White 2 vs Stronghold 2

Black & White 2 is an acclaimed god simulation and real-time strategy game where you act as a deity summoned from the void by desperate refugees. Shape the destiny of your followers by developing their civilization through peaceful city-building or brutal conquest, while nurturing a massive physical avatar—ranging from an ape to a tiger—whose alignment reflects your moral choices. Building upon the foundation of the original game, this sequel introduces full-scale warfare and fighting units as you lead your chosen civilization across various lands to defeat rival empires like the Norse, Japanese, and Aztecs. Balance your divine miracles, manage your economy and population's desires, and fulfill an ancient prophecy to achieve ultimate dominance over the world.

The Steam Edition restores multiplayer via Steam after the GameSpy shutdown, supporting up to eight players online and offline skirmishes against AI. With rich historical detail and sandbox freedom, every decision—from criminal punishment to baron politics—affects the kingdom’s fate.

• Unique blend of god simulation, city-building, and real-time strategy gameplay.
• Engaging creature AI that learns and adapts based on player rewards and punishments.
• Deep moral choice mechanics that visually and mechanically alter the game world.
• Expansive campaign featuring multiple diverse civilizations to conquer.

• Deep feudal justice system
• Intense castle siege combat
• Robust Steam multiplayer support
• Rich sandbox economy

• Can be difficult to run natively on modern operating systems without community patches.
• Military management can occasionally feel disconnected from the core god-game mechanics.
• Single-player only experience with no official multiplayer modes available.

• AI can be unpredictable in higher difficulties
• Graphics are dated compared to modern RTS titles
• Steep learning curve for new players