Watch what the enemy can reach
Protect the routes that carry workers, food, and construction materials. An attack on a supply route can hurt even when your main buildings survive. Exploration gives you a chance to respond before the attackers reach that route.
War flags and guard areas direct warriors toward work and defensive positions. After a fight, review those requests so units are free to eat, heal, or train.
Make recovery part of the plan
Units have health and food needs. The activity system checks for medical needs while they work. Keep services reachable, and inspect whether injured units are getting care rather than assuming a larger army solves the problem.
Training and experience contribute to combat strength. Fruit and custom game rules can also change effective armor and damage, so avoid relying on damage tables from an older release.
Learn from one engagement
In a practice match, send a small group toward a clear objective. Watch arrival, fighting, and recovery. Change one factor—training, approach, or support—and compare the result.
The legacy combat guide records detailed older formulas and advice. Keep it as historical context; use the current game’s unit information for your match.