There are basically two parts to
Stronghold. First and foremost is the military aspect. The title of the game should give this away. But don't hold the game to just slaughtering your opponents, for the other part of
Stronghold is based on economics and will test your managing might.
There is plenty of variety either way you go. The usual Campaign mode is included, where you battle 4 computer opponents for the throne of England. Here, Stronghold takes an almost comical approach to the fighting. Each computer player has unique characteristics about them, and they will react dramatically, if not a little cartoony at times. This adds a little extra flavor to the old 'kill everyone' attitude found in most strategy games.
If you're not patient enough to wade through a plot-driven campaign, you can jump strait to the action via Siege or Invasion modes. This is the real meat and potatoes of the game. The developers included 8 real European castles, along with a variety of castles that they made up, which can be defended or attacked.
When you're tired of fighting for your life, take a trip over to the economic department of the game. Here you have two options: the Economic missions or Free Build. The missions require you to meet certain goals in a specific amount of time, relying only on your management skills. These missions are surprisingly fun and add a completely new chapter to the game without the use of violence.
Free Build is another non-violent aspect of Stronghold. All those days of falling asleep in class and dreaming about the perfect castle can now come true. Without the threat of enemy, time, or a lack of resources, you can craft your own personal castle and community. Almost any castle you can imagine can be built here. It's all up to you.
The Multiplayer mode is basically the same as the other modes, aside from the fact that you can battle it out with up to 7 other human players via LAN or the Internet. You can attack, defend, or fight it out castle to castle. This is sure to generate some good stories to be told over a mug of ale after the fight.
If the variety of the game hasn't overwhelmed you yet, get ready for the Map Editor. Here you can create a map for any of the modes of the game, excluding the campaigns. This jewel of an editor is easy as pie to use, and a quick look through the manual will have you prepared for it in no time.
