The main antagonist of the game is Doc Vostrikov, a Russian prospector who, along with his henchmen the Copperhead Gang, swindles these settlers.

Fleeing residents bring tales of Doc Vostrikov, the "Mad Russian", who once again tries to stop further expansion with the help of his cronies—the Copperhead Gang.

When gold is discovered in the Northern California wilderness, speculators flock west in hopes of striking it rich.

Along the way the kind-hearted, but financially struggling Baron family (a farmer named Jake, his wife Emily, and their son Redd) welcomes three weary travelers into their home and offers them a place to rest.

The basic resources are wood and gold, which are used to build; food, used to feed the people; and water, which is required at farms and ranches.

The player requires experience points to unlock new buildings, which are used to expand the city and hire gunslingers and lawmen to protect it from bandits.

When the owner of the Turner Railroad Company goes missing, his children, Anne and Henry, are called upon to uncover the truth behind his disappearance.

The player can choose either of two pioneers, one male and one female, differing primarily (and perhaps solely) in the layout of the main town's map.

The basic resources are wood and gold, which are used primarily to build; coal, for powering trains; food, to feed the people; and water, required at farms and ranches.

Prince Fenwick and Princess Catherine roam the countryside as they seek the guidance of friendly Kings, Countesses, Dukes, and loyal subjects in Westward Kingdoms.