I was wondering how EA would be making money out of the new free-to-play browser-based strategy game, Lord of Ultima, and then I stumbled upon it when I was playing the game. Players get to hire “ministers”, bots that help automate certain things when you are away like building queues or alert your alliance if your city is attacked. Players also get to purchase “artifacts” that give a boost to their city’s economy or military might.

The currency for these transaction are “Diamonds” and Lord of Ultima players can purchase them in quantities of 500 (USD 4.99), 1100 (USD 9.99), 2350 (USD 19.99), 6250 (USD 49.99) and 13000 (USD 99.99). I’m wondering whether should I get some myself, since I’ll be away for the whole of next week and would certainly benefit from having a Defense Minister when I’m away.

In any case, new players get 1 week’s grace before opponents are allowed to attack them. So have you joined up yet? The game is now in open beta! Look for me at Server 4, but try not to attack me when I’m away. LOL.