Players will establish and build colonies, watching them prosper as the need for trade and diplomacy heightens. From the stone streets of Europe to the steppes of Asia and the jungles of South America, players can explore the globe and trade with up to nine different cultures, including Africans, Aztecs, Pacific Islanders, Moors, Bedouins, Venetians, Mongolians, Native Americans and Pirates. These cultures are controlled by the game's highly sophisticated AI, which keeps players alert during encounters with potential allies looking to establish trade and diplomatic ties or potential enemies simply out for blood.

The game's stunning graphics are showcased as players establish new colonies with a choice of more than 300 structure types. Buildings can be situated in various climates and terrain such as the frozen Tundra, bleak deserts and heavily vegetated jungles, each with their own unique natural resources and indigenous life.

1503 A.D. -- The New World offers players several gameplay modes, including: Tutorial mode, Single Scenario mode, Campaign mode and Open-Ended mode.

Shipped under the title ANNO 1503 in Germany in October 2002, the game is already the best selling PC- and Video Game Title of 2002 in that country with over 400,000 units sold to date*. Under the EA GAMES(TM) brand, 1503 A.D. -- The New World carries an ESRB rating of "T" (Teen) and suggested MSRP of $39.95.