Got what it takes to rule the world? Rise of Kingdoms challenges you to build a nation from the ground up. Develop your home city, raise armies and make (or break) alliances. It’s all up to you, mighty leader.

To accomplish this, you’ll bounce between building and battling: erect storehouses and academies to supply your forces, and research new technologies that will give them a leg up. Then send them out into the world to go toe to toe with other players as you vie for control of the continent.

Ready to make your mark? Even the most cunning commander can use a little help. Soak up these strategies and nothing will stand in your way.

A dozen civilisations – from Byzantium to Japan to Rome – are available at the outset. Select one with perks that suit your play style. Britain is great at defence, for example, while Germany excels at mounted combat. China is one of our favourite starter picks. You get Sun Tzu as your commander (he wrote the book on military strategy, after all!) and a valuable construction speed boost.

That green meter beneath your governor’s profile shows your action points, which regenerate over time. There’s no upside to hoarding them, so while your city workers are busy building your home base, zoom out to the world map and spend your action points attacking roving barbarians.

Build up your kingdom first, then go on the offensive. Attacking another player’s city in the early going is a surefire way to lose units and stunt your nation’s growth. Instead turn your forces loose on barbarian hordes near your city to level up your commanders while nabbing useful resources such as lumber and food.

What’s out there? A lot of murky clouds at first. Use scouts to dissipate the fog of war surrounding your city, then explore the countryside. (It’s helpful to know the location of croplands and logging camps rich with resources.) Keep an eye out for caves and tribal villages on the world map – visit these to earn instant rewards, such as troops, speed-ups and new tech.

Rise of Kingdoms is fun solo but even better with others. Join an alliance and team up for escapades such as taking down barbarian forts or sacking rival cities. Alliances also give you all sorts of perks and bonuses, such as reducing the time needed to build structures or research tech. There’s strength in numbers.