Trade & Økonomi

Trading Basics

Trade in Ikariam is a central game mechanic, not a sideshow. Siden each island only produces one luxury resource, you need trading partners for the other three. The marketplace becomes available early and should be actively used from the first week. Players who trade early grow significantly faster than those who try to be self-sufficient.

Trading Strategies

The simplest strategy is a 1:1 swap of your luxury resource for another. Experienced traders exploit price differences: sulphur is often more expensive than wine, as military players constantly need supplies. Offer strategically when demand is high and buy cheaply when others overproduce.

Trade agreements with alliance members are particularly advantageous. Regular trading partners save time and secure supply even in times of crisis. Some alliances operate internal trade banks that centrally manage resources and distribute them as needed.

Earning Gold

Gold comes from taxes on unemployed citizens. The larger the population, the higher the income. Gold finances troop upkeep, building upgrades and some research. An often underestimated source of income: deliberately keep a portion of your population as taxpayers, especially when you have no urgent construction orders.

Advanced Trading Tips

Check the marketplace regularly. Prices fluctuate by time of day and server situation. In the morning there are often cheap offers, as players have produced overnight. Before and during wars, the sulphur price rises — producers can profit. Use multiple trade ships in parallel to transport large quantities efficiently.

Advanced Trading Tips

Check the marketplace regularly. Prices fluctuate by time of day and server situation. In the morning there are often cheap offers. Before and during wars, the sulphur price rises — producers profit. Use multiple trade ships in parallel for efficient mass transports.

Trade between your own towns is free. Specialise each town in its luxury resource and distribute internally. This is more efficient than the public marketplace where you depend on supply and demand.