The Settlers III is a real-time strategy and city-building game developed and published by Blue Byte Software, released in 1998 for Windows. It is the third entry in the long-running Settlers series, known for its deep economic simulation and intricate supply chain management. Players control a medieval settlement, gathering resources, constructing buildings, and maintaining complex production lines to sustain and expand their civilization. The game features three distinct campaigns (Romans, Asians, and Egyptians) and a random map generator for skirmish play. Multiplayer support allows up to four players via LAN or internet. The Settlers III was praised for its addictive gameplay and economic depth, though it received criticism for its draconian copy protection and a meager printed manual.

The Vault · 1998
The Settlers III
The economic RTS that demands you turn water to wine and coal to steel, just to recruit a single soldier.
The SettlersWindows 95/98City-BuildingReal-Time Strategy
CampaignMultiplayerCD Audio
In the News3 mentions
Sep 241999
Blue Byte files lawsuit against Logicware
Blue Byte files lawsuit against Logicware: Blue Byte Software, Inc. filed a lawsuit against California based Logicware earlier this week in the District Court of Travis County,...
IndustrySep 51999
The Settlers IV announced
The Settlers IV: Just as Quest Of The Amazons goes into final production, Blue Byte Software announced today at the European Computer Trade Show (ECTS), they have a dedicated...
ReleaseAug 201999
Settlers III Expansion Pack Gold
Settlers III Expansion Pack Gold is the news today, which means another box, download, or retail shelf just got busier. Bluebyte's expansion pack for The Settlers...
ReleaseHow to Play TodayYour options for running this game in 2026
Original Hardware
Original CDs are rare and require a period-correct Windows 95/98 machine. Not recommended for casual play unless you own suitable retro hardware.
Modern Re-release
Available on GOG for $5.99, fully patched and running smoothly on modern Windows. This is the definitive way to play today.
Emulation / Other Options
Emulation is not required; the GOG version runs natively. If using an original CD on a modern system, a Windows 98 virtual machine is the best route.
Game Record
| Platform | Windows 95/98 |
| Developer | Blue Byte Software |
| Publisher | Blue Byte Software |
| Genre | City-Building, Real-Time Strategy |
| Players | 1-4 Players |
| Series | The Settlers |
Original PC Specs
| OS | Windows 95/98 |
| CPU | Pentium 166 MHz |
| RAM | 32 MB |
| GPU / Display | 2 MB DirectX-compatible video card |
| Storage | 200 MB hard drive space |
| Drive | 4x CD-ROM |
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