You start out in a corner, in the middle of a forest. You must find your way through the mazes and paths to the middle of the map. In the middle of the map lies The Undiscovered City. It is a large Gaia city, and upon sight it will be yours. but only if you are there first.
The object is to kill everyone, in case you are wondering. Ally and Enemy as you wish.
Also, you do start out with a villager and enough resources to build a town center and make 2 more villagers, so even if you don't get the city, you still have a chance.