This game is like the Vikings in space. It is a math strategy game about profit & loss, where players attack, pillage, pirate & recycle other players stuff for profit and use those profits to improve their empire. Aggressive Players can grow a strong empire fast. It's a survival of the fittest type of game. If you have a weak mental this game isn't for you. My advice for new players is join a guild on Alpha server or the newest server and visit AE community discord channel. There's a channel designated for new players wishing to learn more about the game. Activity is key in this game. It's browser based so can be accessed by phone or computer. I prefer phone but more features are available if you play by computer. As I read through the negative reviews trashing on game it made me wonder if those players were farms and never learned the fundamentals. Players that get farmed typically have a "my way" approach that leads them to get farmed server after server. Don't blame the game, it's balanced for free accounts. It's like $30 a year if you choose to upgrade which gives you a few extra features.