This is a continuation of the MOO sedries. While you don't have to have played the first two, They add a richness to the gamestory. With advanced graphics and detail, as well as a HUGE playing map, MOO3 lives up to its tradition of excellence. In terms of stradegy, you must explore and develop you own species area, as well as forming alliances and making war. In this game, merely trying to dominate thru brute force is not enough; you must also used espionage and economical tools to succeed. You can develop technologies and build upon them to make new tools/weapons, to increase you prowess. A very good 4X game, a good game for rookies and a must-have for MOO fans!