Learning to play this game is fairly simple. Learning to win, however, is a little more complex. 

When you first start the game, you'll be invited to choose a Leader. We'll get into what this means for your game a little later, but for now, you can choose the one you like the look of most. Once you've done that, you'll be assigned a random country on the map. 

From here, your job is to conquer and control 40% of the map by any means necessary. This will mean building up your infrastructure, securing resources and mobilising armies capable of taking on any threat. Remember, this is real-time strategy in a very real sense: Your orders will be carried out in real time. One ingame day will last one real world day. What this means for you is that the most important skill you can bring to the fight is the ability to plan ahead. Think, plan, and choose the right moments to execute your strategies, and you'll take the win. 

Of course, your opponents will be chasing that same victory, so choose your battles carefully. Mastering diplomacy can secure your flanks while you take on a greater enemy, and understanding your position on the world map will be vital to securing the win. 

Take some time to browse our FAQs so you can go into the game prepared from the very beginning. 

In short, if you know yourself, your neighbours and your enemy, victory is already in arm's reach.