Colonies in Ikariam
Expansion through colony founding is the natural next step after a stable capital. Each colony is an independent city with its own production, troops and growth potential. Colonies on different island types give you access to all luxury resources.
Requirements
For your first colony you need a Governor's Palace (requires Governor research), enough wood and gold, and a free building plot on the target island. You also need sufficient culture points — collect these through the Museum and cultural treaties with neighbours. Check beforehand whether the target island is peaceful.
Island Selection Strategy
The ideal colony complements your capital. If your capital is on wine, found the first colony on marble (important for upgrades). Second colony on sulphur (for military), third on crystal (for research). Choose nearby islands for fast transport.
Colony Management
Each colony must function independently. Immediately build sawmill, Town Hall, harbour and warehouse. Set the luxury resource as priority. With trade routes between your cities you distribute resources efficiently. Specialise colonies: one for production, one for research, one for military.
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Start for freeColony Management
Each colony must function independently. Immediately build sawmill, Town Hall, harbour and warehouse. Specialise colonies: marble colony for building upgrades, sulphur colony as military base, crystal colony for research.
Transport Logistics
With each colony the need for trade ships increases. Upgrade the harbour in all cities in parallel. Plan transports so ships travel loaded in both directions — no empty trips. Wait with the third colony until the first two run independently, otherwise your economy overextends.
Island Selection Details
When choosing, pay attention to neighbours and the community building levels on the island. An island with sawmill level 20 is more productive than level 5. High levels mean active players who have driven upgrades — good trade partners.