Rivalry is a 2-5 player game of strategy, role-playing, diplomacy, and world conquest. You will play as one of nine great empires or civilizations from history - the Aztecs, Incas, Germans, Russians, Romans, Greeks, Persians, Mongols, or Chinese. Each nation or civilization (Civ) has its own distinct economic, diplomatic, and military characteristics and its own unique historical Heroes. Once you take command of your Civ, you will use your military, wealth, and your Civ's expertise to dominate your rivals across history.

Rivalry is a game of playing to your strengths, and minimizing your weaknesses. Successful players will learn that backroom deals and clever negotiation are as important as vast militaries or enormous wealth. Unlike other strategy games, Rivalry does not aim to make all Civs equal, but rather provide historical flavor, and diverse and balanced gameplay. The greatest enjoyment of this game comes when players fully explore the character of their Civ and understand how their capabilities fit into the larger diplomatic picture.