Like its turn-based predecessor released nearly a decade earlier, Patrician II is a strategy game of trading, exploration, and competition set at the dawn of the Age of Sail. The player begins his or her career as an unremarkable citizen of a small village who has aspirations of an influence that extends across the seas, through a strong fleet of profitable trading ships. Some players may choose a noble path for their rise to power, carefully maximizing the profit potential of each journey and winning the favor of the local village with useful gifts and financial support. Others may take less scrupulous paths to glory, dealing deceitfully with partners or even hiring pirates to harass the competition. In either case, only a careful expansion of influence and a thoughtful protection of interests will lead the player to ultimate success. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide