In a strategy game, the player often control several units with separate functions. Some strategy games incorporate all of the functions of them, while other focus on distinct parts. These characteristics are used for: resource gathering, development in technology, building of structures, production of additional units, maintenance, defense and offense. It´s a fine line between how much resources that is to be spent on creating the foundation of the strategy and set it in motion. To have a strategy figured out early, might let the player to reach the desired setup in a minimum amount of time. But to gather information about what the opponents are up to can be of great importance before making the choice. It´s a finger top skill to know far into the game, if a strategy is still valid. Maybe even harder to know when more of a "counterstrategy" have to be used. To risk it all in early strategy known as a "rush", might put a player in a bad position later. This is because the defense may be set aside to achieve this early "push". It might also put the player behind in the technology aspect. To have a income of resources is often really important, when setting a strategy in to action. Having a really steady income can be a main strategy in itself. To deny your opponents various incomes is often a part of that strategy. The player can practice different strategies in a "solitary" gameplay almost like a patience. To know how to do a broad range of strategies by heart is really a good way for a player to prepare.
