A VISIT to Eastern Realm, which even kids can play, makes for an introduction to resource management games.

The game is an expansion pack for The Settlers: Rise Of The Empire game, which was released last September. Note: You need to install the original game.

Another note: You definitely need tofirst play the original game to get the hang of things, as Eastern Realm puts you into the thick of things right away without a hand-holding tutorial.

Unlike the original, which focused on the Arthurian-like Kingdom of Vertholm, this game goes to the distant lands of Basa and Hidun.

(Think of a colourful cross between Arabia and India, strange as it seems.)

Like all Settlers games, the basic essence is efficient resource management and city building.

It can be a tough balancing act. You put up buildings - from humble woodcutter huts to factories making siege engines for storming castle walls - and start producing the goods needed for a thriving economy.

Build an abundance of resources, and you can start trading with friendly towns to earn more gold - and expand further.

Sounds boring? Not at all.

Once you zoom in and peep into the animated lives of your "people", it becomes an engrossing experience.

Then, there are unexpected natural disasters, epidemics and strange trade requests - herbal medicine, anyone? - from other towns to keep things lively.

Action junkies craving some blood and guts won't feel left out entirely.

What with bandits, religious fanatics and rebel armies wreaking havoc across the Realm, there are opportunities aplenty to wage war - but only if youremembered to recruit soldiers.

The reward for successful growth is a promotion in rank. With greater responsibility comes greater power, such as the ability to create more advanced factories to make powerful weapons of war.

New to the game are two hero characters: Arabian knight Hakim and Saraya, an Indian princess straight out of a Bollywood fantasy epic. (History is not this game's strong suit, obviously).

You can select one of them or the knights from the original game - all heroes of some might but little magic - to act as your in-game representative who will command and conquer on your behalf.

Like the best games, it will banish homework and other responsibilities to a distant realm and make the hours fly by as you settle down on what is essentially "Governing a City State 101".