Nova Roma

Nova Roma is built by Lion Shield — the three-person indie team behind the beloved Kingdoms and Castles — and published by Hooded Horse, the studio responsible for strategy hits like Manor Lords and Menace. PC Gamer and Rock Paper Shotgun have already praised the game's colorful approach to Roman city-building, spotlighting its innovative running water mechanic and deep supply chains. After a brief delay from January to March 2026, anticipation has only grown.

The Roman setting is perennially popular, but Nova Roma adds genuine mechanical depth: aqueducts that actually route water through terrain, gods who intervene if neglected, and citizen needs ranging from bread to coliseum entertainment. It's shaping up to be the definitive indie Roman city builder of the decade.

In Nova Roma, a small band of Roman citizens leaves the crumbling Empire to forge a new city in a fresh land. You'll manage complex resource chains — quarrying marble, farming grain, distributing goods — while keeping your citizens fed, entertained, and spiritually satisfied. The gods are watching: neglect their temples and disaster follows.

What sets Nova Roma apart from other city builders is its water system. Aqueducts aren't decorative — they follow terrain elevation and actually deliver water to buildings, enabling bathhouses, fountains, and farm irrigation. Population needs scale from basic survival to luxury demands, and Roman laws (edicts) let you shape your city's priorities. The charming, readable art style makes it accessible while the systems offer genuine depth.

Lion Shield's team of three has taken their time, and with Hooded Horse's publishing muscle behind them, Nova Roma looks set to be one of 2026's best strategy releases.