The "Free" version might give you the gameplay, but the "Official" version gives you the mods and community blueprints that make the late-game manageable.
Ubisoft is surprisingly generous with Anno 1800 , offering official ways to jump in without opening your wallet: anno-1800-free-download-pc-game-version
If you missed a free window, Anno 1800 is a staple of seasonal sales. It regularly drops to for the base game. For that price, you get one of the most beautiful city-builders ever made, featuring: The "Free" version might give you the gameplay,