War of 2012 is a browser based SLG game and is free to play. One starts out in the game from the Dark Age with basic city research and development. Battle tactics and strategy, as well as smart city management will allow players to move into the Castle Age and eventually the Imperial Age as they develop. Between advancing through the ages, players can discover new city styles, heroes, and powerful items are able to be promoted to higher levels

One of the most appealing features of War of 2012 is the ability to progress through the ages. Although the game may suggest that it takes place in 2012, players begin their tactical journey as in the Dark Ages. As players progress, finding more resources and building new alliances, they gain access to more technology and eventually the ability to progress to the next age. There are a number of ages, each of which provide players with new technology, stronger units, extra buildings and more.

The Hero System has become quite popular in today's MMORTS games but War of 2012 takes that to new heights as they allow multiple heroes to enter battles at the same time. This gives players the opportunity to use the in-depth and sophisticated hero system to strengthen the weak aspects of their military might, overall improving their chances of success in every combat situation.

To further improve the might of heroes players are able to find and use a variety of powerful items and artifacts. There's a massive variety available, all of which have different statistics, each of which offer heroes more powers and ability. Players are also able to dismantle spare items and refine new ones, offering almost endless potential for heroes and players to strengthen their armies.