Expanding requires clearing "neutral" enemies or out-building rivals.
Researching technologies to unlock unique buffs and perks.
While criticized at launch for its "always-online" DRM, the game is now praised as the of the series. It successfully pivoted away from the simplified mechanics of Settlers 6 and returned to the deep, methodical planning that fans originally fell in love with.
Logistics are vital, as transport times between sectors affect production speed. Complexity Through Production Chains
Each sector contains specific resources (iron, fertile land, fish).