HomeLAN - What multiplayer modes will be featured in Rise of Nations?
Tim Train - There are too many to go over in a couple of paragraphs :-). But as an overview, a total of eight players can play on twenty different random map types in seven different sizes. You can select a variety of game types, including a peaceful tech game where there is no combat, only a race to see who can complete all the research in the major categoies first. Another popular variant is the "no rush" game, where peace is enforced between the combatants for a set period of time. You can configure your starting setups to skip the initial buildup period, or start with nothing at all in your nation if you enjoy placing those early buildings. Starting resources, technology, population limits, start and end Ages, and victory conditions can all be changed.

Another fun feature is an optional skill level setting that handicaps multiplayer games. The goal with a handicap is to allow a newbie and an experienced player to still have a fun game, instead of the inevitable stompfest. If you assign yourself a handicap, your opponent collects resources more quickly, and will be able to keep you on your toes even if you are a much better player. At Big Huge, we use the skill settings to get to where each player wins about 50% of the time. If someone wins two or three times in a row, they go up a skill level relative to their opponent. That way, our daily multiplayer beatdowns are always fun and challenging for both players.