Battles play a vital role in Nobunaga"s Ambition: Sphere of Influence. Although it is not necessary for players to declare war to strengthen their position, enemy lords may attack castles, towns, and settlements to increase their area of influence and grow their wealth. Defeating enemy fiefs can also strengthen the overall standing of the player"s chosen clan, so growing a strong, well-equipped and well-trained, loyal army is key to successfully completing the game. Players can enter the battlefield with one or multiple army regiments, call on banner-men, allies and subordinates, and strategically use the terrain to the advantage of their clan! Battles are resolved in multiple ways, including a remote, birds-eye view of the map where there is free control of individual armies or combinations of allied forces, and a close-up view option that offers more control of individual units. The first option allows for a Multi-faceted Battle with various fronts and skirmishes across the map, and allows control of the chosen clan and its allied forces. All battles are in real time, so this offers a better overview of the map, as well as ally and enemy movements. With the second option, players can strategize further using information such as terrain particularities and current weather conditions. Close-field battles also offer the player the chance to take the role of the Grand Commander which opens up the option to use officer "Traits" and "Tactics".