Hi, I bought RoN and the add-on pack a couple of days ago with some christmass money. I only bought it because it was cheep and looked ok-ish - I didn't realise there was a forum here. I was just wondering, are there any basic tips and tricks that a newbe to the game like me should know?

The game shows tips at the start. Personally, I recommend playing with diplomacy on, because the default srtting is always at war. In diplomacy games, it's a good idea to have an ally. Make sure you advance quickly.

In melee games, the Aztecs get resources for killing units. If you can launch a quick raid on their supply lines, then you can get extra resources to advance and rebuild the dead units.

Check RON clan pages. There is lot info and links.

Yeah I just picked up RoN Gold cheap in the New Year Sales too. Brian Reynolds has written a brief strategy guide at the official site:

http://www.microsoft.com/games/riseofnations/hints.asp

Edit: searching around I also found this page:

http://www.infidels.org.uk/ron/strategy.htm