Empires casts its conflict between the Northern Faction, remnants of Jekotia, and the imperial Brenodi Empire as a team-based fight shaped by both shooter and strategy play. Players can choose among four infantry classes: scouts can prepare surprise attacks, riflemen take on direct combat, grenadiers target enemy tanks, and engineers support their team. Customizable skills let players tailor each class to a preferred style.
Coordination extends beyond individual roles. Players can form squads, with leaders directing members and using abilities such as reviving squadmates or calling in artillery. On the battlefield, vehicles serve different purposes, from transporting troops in an Armored Personnel Carrier to attacking with an Artillery tank. Six vehicle types are described, including three tank levels, and players can customize weapons, armor, and engines.
Empires also gives one player the commander role, placing buildings and defensive turrets, constructing vehicles, and conducting research to guide the team.
