Populous II: Trials of the Olympian Gods

Populous II: Trials of the Olympian Gods, also known as Two Tribes: Populous II on the Sega Genesis, is a single-player and multiplayer real-time strategy god game. The player assumes the role of a demigod, child of an unknown immortal, who must prove their divine worth by battling through the ranks of the Greek pantheon. Each victory over rival deities brings the protagonist closer to the final confrontation with Zeus, ruler of Olympus.

Like its predecessor Populous, the game revolves around influencing human followers and shaping the landscape to secure dominance. The player does not directly control individuals but instead guides a growing population by altering terrain, expanding settlements, and providing divine intervention in battles against enemy tribes. Success comes from expanding one’s worshippers, increasing faith, and eliminating opposing populations.

The game introduces a greatly expanded system of divine powers. More than sixty different godly abilities are available, divided into categories such as earth, fire, water, air, war, plants, and creatures. These include small-scale effects like raising or lowering land, as well as destructive miracles such as whirlwinds, earthquakes, tidal waves, and volcanoes. Some powers provide defensive or supportive effects, while others summon mythical beings to aid followers. Divine energy, generated through the faith of believers, limits how frequently these powers can be used.

Each stage is set on an isometric map where enemy tribes worship rival gods. The demigod advances by defeating these opponents one by one, eventually facing heroes and Olympian gods themselves. Campaign progress unlocks additional abilities. Skirmish-style gameplay is also supported, allowing for battles outside the main quest.

Multiplayer is included through serial link or dial-up connections, enabling two players to pit their divine abilities against one another. The game also improves on the presentation of the original with higher resolution graphics, more detailed terrain, and digitized sound effects that emphasize the destructive impact of miracles.