Sidedooring

A Blue Shaman Sidedooring Using Landbridge

Sidedooring or Sidedoor is a technique used very commonly in the Populous Multiplayer. Although it is not used by the computer opponents in the Single Player version of the game the player can choose to Sidedoor the computer opponent if they want to.

It is made to attack and catch the enemy by surprise. It is a very common strategy used among the more experienced players of the Populous Multiplayer. It is constructed by making Landbridges or Flatten to connect some part of the opponents base. Usually a Shaman is used to create or defend and attack through a Sidedoor. Another sidedoor mostly uncommon is by using an alternate route form the map to reach the opponent's base while keeping them busy.

If successful the Sidedoor could become a critical factor in the game.

Defending Sidedoors

The most effective way to defend a Sidedoor from an opponent can be achieved with a Shaman and a few Firewarriors and Warriors. Sidedoors can also be defended by placing Firewarriors in Guard Towers or making them guard around the side that could be attacked.

Is Sidedooring Allowed?

Unless agreed upon by all players before the game, yes. It can turn the tables of a fight, by invading an undefended entrance to an enemy base. Because of its ability to reverse the direction of the game so quickly, many players will complain or try to make new rules blocking the use of a side door. However, it is a valid strategy that some levels (such as Face Off) are designed to include, so unless all the players have agreed against it, then nothing has been done wrong.