Feral Interactive has launched a major free update for *Rome: Total War* on Android, known as the **Imperium Update**. This expansive patch introduces numerous gameplay refinements, enhanced controls, and valuable quality-of-life improvements to the classic strategy title. Originally released on Android in 2018, *Rome: Total War* continues to evolve with this latest enhancement.
The same Imperium Update will roll out next week for the standalone expansions *Barbarian Invasion* and *Alexander*, bringing consistency and improved functionality across the series. If you're a fan of grand strategy and real-time tactics, this update is definitely worth your attention.
What’s New in the Imperium Update?
Drawing inspiration from Feral Interactive's more recent mobile adaptations like *Total War: MEDIEVAL II* and *EMPIRE*, the Imperium Update adds several notable features designed to enhance both accessibility and tactical control:
- Three new control modes: Positioning Mode, Melee Mode, and Automatic Deselection—offering greater precision when commanding units during battle.
- Tap-and-hold movement: Instead of manually dragging paths, players can now simply tap and hold to move armies, agents, or fleets—streamlining battlefield navigation.
- Positioning Mode: Allows fine adjustments to unit placement by tapping and holding, giving you tighter control over formations.
- Group Grid: A collapsible selection menu that simplifies unit group management, making it easier to organize and deploy forces efficiently.
- Melee Mode: Enables ranged units to seamlessly transition into close combat when necessary, adding flexibility during dynamic engagements.
One of the most impactful additions is the Command Slowdown feature, which automatically reduces the game speed when issuing complex orders. This allows for more thoughtful decision-making without missing critical moments on the battlefield.
For the first time ever, *Rome: Total War* on Android (and iPad) now supports external keyboards and mice—greatly improving control responsiveness and strategic input for those who prefer desktop-style gameplay on their mobile devices.
Improved Minimap Experience
The minimap interface has been redesigned to closely mirror the experience found in *MEDIEVAL II*. It now includes smoother zooming and intuitive navigation controls. A new reset button lets you instantly return to the default view, helping you maintain situational awareness during intense campaigns.
Availability
The Imperium Update is already available for download via the Google Play Store for owners of *Rome: Total War* on Android. Fans of the *Barbarian Invasion* and *Alexander* expansions should mark their calendars—their respective updates arrive next week.
Before you go, don’t miss our latest coverage on *Battlecruisers*, celebrating its 4th anniversary with a special Trans Edition update. Stay tuned for more updates across your favorite mobile strategy titles!
