"Sacrifice" is a real-time strategy game released in 2000, developed by Shiny Entertainment and published by Interplay. It stands out for its unique blend of traditional strategy elements with real-time action and powerful spellcasting capabilities. Players assume the role of a powerful sorcerer who must choose to ally with one of several gods, each offering different spells and units, and lead them in battles against rival factions. The strategic layer is enhanced by terrain manipulation and a dynamic spellcasting system that allows players to create and direct magical effects in real time, adding a significant depth to both combat and tactics.
The game's visual style is highly distinctive, featuring a richly detailed, isometric perspective with beautifully crafted environments and vibrant character designs that contribute to a dark, mythical atmosphere. The story unfolds through a series of missions and quests, each filled with engaging lore and challenging enemies, including other sorcerers and mythological creatures. The compelling narrative is complemented by a well-rounded multiplayer mode, enabling players to compete against each other in various match-ups, thus enriching the game's replayability. "Sacrifice" is noted for its innovative gameplay mechanics, artistic presentation, and the level of strategic depth it offers, making it a memorable title in the real-time strategy genre.