Builders of China allows you to manage the economy of various Chinese settlements, from the flooded banks of the Yellow River and the unpredictable North China Plain to the rugged western mountain ranges.
Create extensive irrigation systems to tame the hostile land, establish harbors and trading outposts, grow your population, research new technologies and spread your culture and knowledge. Secure the Mandate of Heaven through competent and benevolent rule, or face being overthrown by your subjects.
The Middle Kingdom is a vast and varied place. Every region will challenge you with different problems and local peculiarities, from freak weather to poor soil. You will need to adapt to these realities to create your own unique and complex system of farms, fisheries, workshops and urban facilities.
Overcome these obstacles and forge your own path to greatness.
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer by establishing extensive trade routes both on sea, rivers and land. Choose what strategic resource you export and import and utilize different wants and weaknesses of your trading partners to your advantage.
Amass enough wealth to overawe your neighbors with a display of splendor and power surpassing even the expedition of Admiral Zheng He.
The central position of China attracts many influences. It will be your duty to balance them out and keep the peace in your kingdom. Be wary as many religions, cultures and customs will vie for your favor and you will not be able to satisfy them all.
Be careful to not forget about your own citizens though. Different settlements at different levels of development will require specific resources and have their own unique needs and wants. Fail to meet them and the population will quickly turn on you.
Always remember that you are but a subject to the Emperor and his edicts and orders need to be implemented promptly and diligently.
...or you may secretly evade them, dodging taxes and neglect your duties. Risk the fury of the imperial officials or submit, knowing that it is better to be a dog in times of tranquility than a human in times of chaos.