Age of Renaissance

We begin in the 8th century, deep in the heart of the Dark Ages. Three to six players vie to re-establish their civilizations via trade while advancing in Sience, Religion, Commerce, Communications, Exploration, and Civics.
While gains are measured in econimic terms rather than territorial conquest, the proceedings are nothing if not warlike. Against the backdrop of war, plaque, famine, and religious strife, such personalities as Newton, Galileo, Gutenberg, Erasmus, Copernicus, Charlemagne, Polo, da Vinci, and Columbus appear to guide mankind to the threshold of a new beginning with startling discoveries in their repective fields.
For victory is won not at the point of a sword but in the acquisition and application of 26 Advances ranging from Caravan to Industry. Each Advance grants its owner a potentially game-winning advantage, while the order in which these Advances are acquired will determine the speed with which you can usher in the Renaissance.