If you have not seen it already, take a look at this thread, it goes through an overview of the start game for new users.
New User GameAs always there are a zillion and one strategies people will propose, in the end you will evolve your own. Its a good thing to take the time to read throught the "Strategies" part of the Forum once you are orientated after a CalkWalk game, it saves much grief - and saves you putting your fist through the screen
The start game is crucial though, and its very important to get that right as it has huge effects on the rest of the game. When you read that post note in particular remarks on
- Economy - this game is all about the economy, need to work hard to get it right.
- Game levels - use CalkWalk to start with, but expect ziltch from the AI at this level, but you get the chance to learn basic mechanics without being run over.
- Practice the early game, ditching the game after (say) 18 game months, you get through a few each night that way, and "practice makes perfect" as they say. The problem battling through to the end when you have not got the early game nailed, is you end up firefighting and learning little.
Never hesitate to post for help - you will not get flamed here - anyone flaming a new user gets creamed themselves, so relax and enjoy.
Regards
Zy