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Efficiency Doesn't Matter
Anno 1404

Efficiency Doesn't Matter

Learn how to succeed in Anno 1404's 'Efficiency Doesn't Matter' guide. Discover tips on island selection, resource management, and citizen needs to build a thriving settlement.

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Learn how to succeed in Anno 1404's 'Efficiency Doesn't Matter' guide. Discover tips on island selection, resource management, and citizen needs to build a thriving settlement.

This guide section focuses on the 'Efficiency Doesn't Matter' gameplay mode in Anno 1404. It covers the initial steps of establishing a settlement, managing resources, and satisfying the needs of your growing population.

Walkthrough
  1. 1
    Initial Setup: Purchase all available wood from Lord Northburgh. Settle on a large, flat island with good fertility (Cider, Hemp) and resources (Stone, Iron Ore), preferably near a neutral port. Build woodcutters, fisherman's huts, and housing, adjusting taxes to encourage growth.
  2. 2
    Early Expansion: Build Cider farms to satisfy peasant needs and enable ascension. Explore the archipelago to claim good islands and discover NPC harbors. Visit Northburgh to buy a Diplomatic Scroll and acquire more tools and wood.
  3. 3
    Resource Production: Prioritize establishing Stone and Tool production. Block citizen ascension temporarily to conserve tools. Build Iron Ore mines, Charcoal burners, and Tool maker's workshops.
  4. 4
    Citizen Needs: Once Tool production is stable, focus on Linen Garments (Hemp Farms, Weavers Hut) and Ropes (Hemp Farms, Rope Yards). Ensure fire protection with Carpenter's or Fire stations once your population exceeds 355.
  5. 5
    Oriental Settlement: Settle a new island with Spices and Dates fertility. Build Nomad houses to unlock Spice production and establish plantations. Use this island for producing wood, stone, and tools in the long term.
  6. 6
    Northern Development: With Spices, your Citizens can become Patricians. Settle a new northern island with Brine deposits, a river, and Crop/Herb fertility. Establish production chains for Bread, Beer, and Leather Jerkins, and set up trade routes.
Tips
  • Restart if an AI claims the best island early on, unless you seek a challenge.
  • Place woodcutters and other production buildings strategically to maximize efficiency and minimize road maintenance.
  • Adjust taxes carefully to balance revenue and citizen happiness/growth.
  • Use Fire stations over Carpenter's buildings for fire protection due to lower maintenance costs.
  • Prioritize essential resource production to reduce reliance on NPC traders.

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