Each map has its advantages and disadvantages and hence requires a unique strategic approach. Also, some civilizations are better suited to some maps than others, and selecting the right civilization can make victory more easily attainable.

Arabia

Description: This desert map consists of large stretches of sandy flatland with very little water. Resources are plentiful, although wood is not too abundant.

Strategy: Stake your claim to nearby resources as soon as you can. The lack of natural barriers makes defense a high priority.

Civilizations at an Advantage: Those with access to building technology such as the Britons, Byzantines, or Turks will do well in Arabia. Civilizations lacking in siege technology may find it difficult to wear-down entrenched opponents. The Goths, Japanese, and Vikings are at a decided disadvantage on this map.

Archipelago (also Islands, Team Islands)

Description: Usually consists of numerous islands and plenty of ocean. Sometimes it can be a single big island onto which all the civilizations are crowded.

Strategy: Naval power is key to winning on these maps. Make sure you keep a few warships at home to protect your docks -- watchtowers do not have the necessary range to be effective coast defenders. Also keep some infantry in your village to protect against invasions by other civilizations. You will also find that resources will be scattered across the islands, it will be necessary to build a good transport fleet to move your villagers to where the resources can be found.

Civilizations at an Advantage: Civilizations with strong naval units and bonuses are at a definite advantage. Play as the Japanese or Vikings to give yourself an edge against the competition.

Baltic

Description: A balance of land and water with a large lake set in the middle of the map. Forests dot the landscape.

Strategy: This is a good map on which to try to win by developing a strong economy. There are enough resources to fuel your growth and enough natural barriers to keep the enemy out of your hair for a while.

Civilizations at an Advantage: The Persians work rate will give them an edge here. The Chinese technology bonuses will help them build a thriving economy faster than their rivals.

Black Forest

Description: A heavily wooded map sprinkled with lakes. A large number of wolves usually roam the landscape

Strategy: Use the forests as natural barriers and defenses. Place watchtowers and archer units at key passes through the trees. Be careful to not let your woodcutters run amuck and destroy your natural barriers.

Civilizations at an Advantage: Civilizations with strong archers will have an edge here. Try playing as the Britons or Mongols.

Coastal

Description: Not too surprisingly, a large coastline dominates this map.

Strategy: Naval units will be a big factor, both to bombard the enemy from sea and to land troops behind enemy lines.

Civilizations at an Advantage: Saracens are a good choice on this map with their naval transport advantage. Vikings are also a good choice with their naval and infantry advantages.

Page 2 »