A City Builder Fit for the Gods

Back in 2023, Dotemu republished the classic city-building game from 1999 known as Pharaoh, developed by Triskell Interactive. Now, three years later, Dotemu and Triskell have reunited to develop Theos: Cities of Myth, something of a spiritual sequel to both the original Pharaoh and its 2023 remake.

Thanks to the lovely folks at Dotemu, I was able to preview the game before it debuted at the MIX Summer Games Showcase. In my time spent with the game, it’s clear that this is a team dedicated to preserving a certain era of city builder. It was a time dominated by the likes of SimCity 2000 and Tropico, and a time when PC gaming was on its way to a huge boom.

This isn’t a genre that needs another new game, as many come out every year, but Triskell and Dotemu are determined to identify a specific style and era for the genre. With Theos: Cities of Myth, Triskell takes its cues from the classic city builders of the 90s, and their great work in the genre. Using a slick art style and some sharp controls, Theos: Cities of Myth is shaping up to be the city builder to watch in 2026.

By God

As for city builders, it’s actually hard to stand out in the space. That’s especially true today, when everyone who likes a brand probably already has their favorites. And unless something goes terribly wrong, that person has likely made that game their home and any newcomers should find their way to the switch.

Whichever type of city builder you choose, be it SimCity or Cities: Skylines, it’s a genre where, once you’re in it, you’ve already dedicated yourself to the subject you’ve put hundreds of hours into. The new city builder has a steep hill to climb, but with the power of the gods themselves, Theos seems ready to take his best shot.

Like the original Pharaoh from 1999 and Triskell’s 2023 remake, Theos is created by choosing an avatar type, then building a city in their image. In the preview build I spent time with, there were a few options. It’s hard to judge how different each one will be, as this was still an early rendering of the game.

That said, there was something calm and salivating about Theos that many city builders strive for. Soft, soothing music is soothing, and the subtle sound design has the power to lull you into a humble state. If there’s one thing a great city builder will always do well, it’s creating an atmosphere that feels relaxing and inviting, and Theos is definitely on the right track here.

A Strong Foundation

I came away from my time with Theos: Cities of Myth very impressed. Although the construction in question was too early to be finalized, what was on display was very exciting. It’s a game with a solid, incredibly solid city-building foundation. Choosing and making upgrades feels fast, and it’s easy to get lots of new things added to your city quickly.

Even at this early stage, the performance of Theos on PC also seems to be very good. It’s always hard to judge a game early, but the level of detail in the artwork and environment is incredibly impressive. This is clearly a game made by incredibly talented artists and designers, that looks and plays amazing even now.

As a city builder, Theos has many strengths. Whether it will be able to hold its own against well-established franchises, as well as the exciting new city builder games coming out this year, is not yet clear. That said, Theos is already well on its way to taking a big swing to at least try to compete.

If you already have a favorite city builder, but are looking for something new, I would encourage you to take a look at Theos: Cities of Myth. There’s something really cool waiting in the wings here, and I can’t wait to hear more about it as the year goes on. This is going to be a busy year for the city builder genre, but Triskell and Dotemu have a strong contender on deck.

Theos: Cities of Myth is scheduled for release on PC in 2026.