The game uses an isometric perspective. The main objective is to develop a functioning settlement by placing buildings, assigning work, producing food and goods, and meeting scenario requirements.

Villagers perform jobs such as farming, construction, crafting, and fighting. Population changes over time through births, aging, illness, and death, while animals provide additional agricultural resources. Scenarios introduce different economic, defensive, and survival goals.

Progression depends on expanding the settlement, improving production chains, and protecting residents from threats. Combat exists, but everyday management and population control are central to play.

Start with food production and housing before expanding. Keep key workers close to their workplaces and avoid assigning the entire population to one task.

Watch fertility, age, health, and morale. A growing population can exhaust food supplies, while too few workers can halt construction and production.

Build defensive structures and maintain a reserve of food and labor before pursuing scenario objectives. Pause frequently to inspect problems and redirect villagers.