Resources & Production

The Resource System

Ikariam is based on five resources that form the core of the gameplay. Wood is the basic resource on every island. Additionally, each island has exactly one luxury resource — Wine, Marble, Crystal Glass or Sulphur. Siden you need all five, trade or expansion is unavoidable.

This system drives all player interaction. It forces you into diplomatic relationships, trade routes and strategic decisions about colony locations. Nei player is self-sufficient — that is precisely what makes Ikariam interesting.

Resources in Detail

Wood is needed permanently and in large quantities. Wine is critical in the early phase for satisfaction. Marble becomes the bottleneck from mid-game. Crystal glass accelerates research. Sulphur is the pure military resource.

Optimising Production

Output depends on: level of the production building, number of assigned workers and research bonuses. Sawmill and luxury resource buildings are upgraded communally on the island — all players benefit and contribute.

Always assign the maximum number of workers. Unused slots are wasted potential. Fokus on wood initially, from mid first week add the luxury resource. Prosperity in the Økonomi branch provides a percentage production bonus.

Trade and Marketplace

The marketplace enables trade with players on neighbouring islands. Offer your luxury resource and exchange it for what you are missing. Exploit price differences — sulphur is often more expensive than wine, especially during wartime.

Trade with alliance members is cheaper and more reliable. Agree on fixed exchange rates and regular deliveries for stable supply.

Gold — the Invisible Sixth Resource

Gold comes from taxes on unemployed citizens, not from mines. It finances troop upkeep, construction costs and certain research. Always keep a gold buffer of at least 24 hours' upkeep.