You play a leader of a tiny political faction within the Republic of "Novistrana" (apparently this means "New Country" in Russian according to Hassabis, and naturally, I don't doubt him). Starting with a tiny base of support, you expand and nurture your political party until you can oust the president. Based on an amalgamation of historical events in and around the former Soviet Union, the game thrusts you into the world of Eastern bloc architecture and politics. Up to sixteen factions, in addition to the computer-controlled president, are competing for power.

You have many options open to you as you assume the role of politician, businessman, criminal, religious leader or general. Whether by bribery, corruption, brainwashing, ruthless blackmail or simple persuasion, the aim is to grow your support at the expense of your rivals.

All sounds fun, huh? And fun it should be. The team at Elixir aim to construct an entire country, 2000 sq kilometres in area, populate it with 1,000,000 living breathing citizens (all with ideas, beliefs and agendas, etc), and let you loose in it, with the freedom to manipulate people and groups to your own end - thereby making you more powerful. Go the nasty way - bully people into voting for you by using strong-arm tactics (sending the thugs round to a rival faction leader should be kinda fun). Go the manipulative way - using bribes and underhand schemes to change peoples views. Work your way through the business scene - making friends with people in high positions, often with the money you need to get somewhere... Or take the religious route - even if it means sending your cronies to stand on soap boxes preaching to the masses. Or do a little of all of them! It's up to you.

Check out the other areas of the site for more in-depth details about the game's aim.