After conquering computer systems, Microsoft's flagship strategy game series marches onto Nintendo DS with a few new twists. Players must lead their civilization to greatness by gathering resources, researching technology, and constructing buildings while amassing an army strong enough to conquer nearby territory. The five available civilizations include the Britons, Franks, Mongols, Japanese, and Saracens. More than 45 unit types are featured, from healing monks to long-range bowmen. Unlike the PC game, combat for the DS version is handled in a turn-based format, allowing players time to carefully plan their strategy. Other changes include a combat advisor, who will give recommendations on specific tactics, and the ability to unlock additional maps or units by using empire points earned from missions. In addition to the single-player campaign, up to four would-be monarchs can battle each other in a series of wireless multiplayer scenarios.