The world map is a random generated fully 2D open world setting. Its based on quadrants where each quadrant is composed of 100x100 tiles. There is no theoretical limit to the number of quadrant a world can have, however due to server performance it's best to not exceed 10x10 quadrants (upgrading the servers can increase this number). Every realm has its own different world map, so every realm offers its own unique world experience.

The terrain generation algorithm takes into account various settings in order to create valleys, mountains, forests, seas, lakes, rivers, jungles, deserts, cold regions etc... Creating a rich world that allows a huge ammount of diversity. Every corner of the world is unique.

Arcadia Online is focused around player interaction, however there is a rich choice of computer controlled opponents to fight. The world is populated by various hostiles including Rebels, Pirates, Orcs and Trolls. They pose a threat against weak armies, however defeating them offers rewards.

Every player starts with a basic city and a little army. The player can then start building different buildings and decide how to expand the city. From resource gathering buildings to combat buildings, there is a wide variety of buildings to choose to upgrade your city.

Yes, there are two ways to acquire more cities, build them or conquer them (from other players). Building is the easiest way provided you have the resources to build a city. Conquering another city involves waging war against another player, it is more dangerous, but the reward is greater.

Every different tile has different attributes (ex. woodcutting, stoneworking, etc...) and the sum of the tiles attributes surrounding the city gives different combinations of attributes. For example, cities that are near mountains will get better stoneworking and mining attributes. In this way choosing the place to build a city becomes a strategic decision.

The combat system is based on armies. Every army has a commander that leads. The commander can get experience fighting enemies. The army can be composed of many different unit types, divided in formations. Once two armies engage the combat simulation is run and the player receives the combat report.

A formation is a way to place your army in the field of battle that offers you a tactical advantage during the fight. A good tactic is to scout the enemy army before engaging and changing your formation to counter the enemy. An example is to place your spearmen in the same spot where the enemy cavalry is placed.

In order to conquer a city you need first to siege it. A siege can last from a day to a few days, depending on the city walls and the difference in the number of cities that a player owns. For example sieging a weaker opponent will take more time, giving him more time to prepare to defend the city. Once the siege is finished the player will attack the city.

To bring down the city walls you need to have enough catapults or trebuchets in your army.

Yes, the game offers naval battles where ships organized in fleets battle on the high seas!