Carpet Combat - Roman Collection expands the free-to-play turn-based tactics experience on PC with a Roman-themed arena and roster. The base game centers on small-scale toy soldier battles that combine strategic placement with realistic physics. Players position squads in detailed environments, line up shots by flicking objects, and watch as trajectories bounce off surfaces or collide with units. The Roman Collection adds the Emperor's Baths arena for solo practice, AI matches, and multiplayer sessions, along with a dedicated Roman soldier roster and companion options.
Gameplay
Core play revolves around deploying a limited squad of toy soldiers across an arena floor. Each turn involves selecting a firing position, adjusting aim and power, then releasing an object that travels according to physics rules. Shots can ricochet off walls, knock over standing figures, or scatter multiple units when they connect. Positioning proves critical because soldiers must remain upright to stay active, and obstacles in the environment provide cover or create unexpected angles. The Roman Collection introduces ten animated aiming arcs that unlock through progression, giving visual feedback on shot paths specific to the theme. Five collection power-ups further alter turns: Ballista Bolt for enhanced range or impact, Testudo for defensive formation effects, Battering Ram for forceful pushes, Mine Field for area denial, and Arena Dust for visibility or disruption tactics. These tools integrate directly into the flicking mechanic without replacing the base physics focus.
Game Modes
Practice mode lets players refine shots and positioning against adjustable AI difficulty in the Emperor's Baths arena. AI battles support solo challenges where opponents use the same physics system. Multiplayer includes free-for-all matches for two to four participants and 2v2 team formats. Cooperative options allow one player to team with a friend against AI-controlled forces. Ownership of the Roman Collection unlocks hosting and full access on this arena, while Steam players can join hosted sessions without owning the add-on in some cross-store scenarios. Every participant in mixed-store matches needs their own ownership for the arena content.
Content and Progression
The Roman soldier roster brings themed units and a companion into battles, expanding visual variety beyond the base Green Army set. Progression through career objectives unlocks the animated aiming arcs and cosmetic rewards tied to the collection. A dedicated menu theme accompanies the new content. Character concept illustrations for Roman Soldiers, Roman Peasants, Greek Gods, and Argonaut Skeletons appear in the in-game browser as reference material. These elements layer onto the existing power-up system without altering core rules.
Is It Worth Playing?
The free base game provides immediate access to the Living Room arena, starter power-ups, practice, AI battles, and online multiplayer, making the core loop available at no cost. The Roman Collection targets players who enjoy precise positioning, physics interactions, and light tactical decision-making in short matches. It adds a distinct arena and themed roster that fits fans of toy-scale battles with historical flavor. Because the title remains in pre-release with no published reviews or live player data, interest depends on preference for turn-based flick mechanics over real-time action. Those who value strategic placement and environmental use will find the verified systems rewarding once the game launches.
