Set your own goals of conquest or cultural assimilation as you take control of the great powers of the era, in the race for world domination. Conquer and subjugate your enemies or dominate the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and rise to become the greatest trading power in the world. Mobilize large armies to ward off the barbarian hordes or stave off the threat of invasion from powerful neighbors with gifts.

With new features previously only available through the digital download only expansion pack, the road to success is much more difficult to traverse. Governments now hold sway over the actions that can be taken. Senates and tribal councils will order players to conduct missions they see fit to test players' abilities to achieve their goals. Players can also guide their nations to their ultimate goals with the enactment of beneficial Laws. The AI controlled opponents now behave with more vigor and purpose as they set about surviving the turmoil of these times.