This may not be "like other Settlers games," but it may be the BEST of them all (its definitely better than Settlers 7, but if not this game, then Settlers 6 may be my favorite). The reasons why many of the previous reviews of this game are so poor is that everybody wanted this game to be similar to Settlers IV. But it's not - it's completely different. What is important to remember here, as stated above, is you have to know what you are doing in this game, and be patient while you are learning from getting destroyed the first couple of times you play. The greatest challenge is being able to build up a strong economy fast enough before your enemies come to crush you. Some of the quests get extremely difficult as the campaign moves forward. Definitely worth $10. This is the third time I've purchased/played it in the past 8 years or so, and it still seems fresh and exciting. Now, if GOG, or Steam, or someone would offer the two expansions that go along with this game (that would be something for the wish list).
