Foundation is a city planning simulator set in medieval times. Gameplay focuses on organic development, resource management and construction. The user becomes the newly appointed Lord or Lady of the territory (to choose from). The land is still untouched and the potential is full of new possibilities.

The gamer will have to create a prosperous city by controlling citizens, the flow and consumption of resources, construction, designing infrastructure and performing other actions. Gradually the population will increase. In the story campaign, narrative events and missions occur as you progress. Constructing certain types of buildings, reaching the top of the population, or conducting research will unlock new events and provide more moments from the main story.

The beginnings are modest, there are few jobs and places for them. The player is able to completely control his subjects, sending them to extract resources, build trade routes and build magnificent monuments. The townspeople pave natural paths and build roads with their own hands, making their lives easier. A complex network of interactions will increase the production of goods and improve the skills of villagers. Resources are the main element needed to construct buildings and expand the available location.