Rise of Nations

Rise of Nations is a real-time strategy game which covers the advancement of civilizations over their entire timeline from ancient times to present-day technologies. The core mechanic is aging up like in Age of Empires and Empire Earth, but aside from unlocking new upgrades, technologies and units, Rise of Nations keeps introducing new resources every few ages. Unit lines are need to be constantly upgraded to keep up with those of rival civilizations, and different unit types specialize against different targets.

Additionally, the game features national borders that are expanded, other than by capturing enemy cities, by certain buildings and technologies. Units found in enemy territory receive passive damage from attrition unless supply wagons are positioned nearby. Trade routes can be set between friendly cities and merchants can be placed near rare resources to boost income. Multiple wonders can be built to receive bonuses, while library technologies raise income caps.

The game does not have a conventional singleplayer campaign - instead, it features "Conquer the World", a turn-based mode set on the world map where the player fights for control over the world's regions. Various victory conditions can be set, while launching too many nuclear missiles will end the game with no winner. The game features skirmish and multiplayer modes as well, and can be played with one of 18 nations (with unique units).