Hokkaido
Hokkaido is a Definitive Edition hybrid map split by an enormous mountain. The ocean lies to the south, while two valuable Trade Routes and a Zen settlement sit north of the mountain; teams must fight on these two fronts because there is no alternate route around the central obstacle.
Map character
Scout the mountain passes, southern coast and northern routes before moving the main army. The Zen settlement can unlock alliance units or technologies through its Trading Post. Treasure guardians can include Black Panthers, Blind Monks, Masterless Samurai, Mongol Riders, Smugglers, Snow Leopards, Snow Monkeys and Tigers, so inspect each reward site before approaching.
What to scout
Decide whether the army will contest the northern Trade Routes, protect a southern water economy or split forces between both. The mountain prevents easy rotation, so avoid committing every unit to one front without a reinforcement plan. Secure a crossing and leave mobile troops able to respond if the opponent attacks the other side.
Two fronts divided by a central mountain
Hokkaido’s defining feature is that the mountain removes the usual option of moving around the center. The northern Trade Routes and Zen settlement are separated from the southern ocean, creating two distinct objectives that can strain a divided army. Scout the passes and decide which front can be reinforced most reliably. A player who overextends to both may lose each in turn; coordinated pushes and clear retreat routes matter more than a fixed opening build.