When you first start the game you are a Level 0 Peasant. To gain your first level you must complete the Principles of Citizenship. The principles are clearly listed under a tab of the same name in the lower left hand window. Initially each principle is marked "No", indicating you have not completed that principle. The principle will be marked "Done" when you complete the steps required to satisfy it. Once you have completed all the Principles of Citizenship you will advance to Level 1 and gain the title of "Citizen".

Every time you gain a level you will be presented with a screen that shows what tests and technology you have gained access to, and what you will gain access to when you complete the next level. You c an refer to this screen at any time by clicking on yourself, then "Special...", then "Show my Level and Future Goals".

As a Level 1 Citizen you can gain another level by completing the Principles of Architecture, Principles of Body or Principles of Leadership. Once you complete any one of these principles you will gain a level and receive a new title: "Initiate of Architecture", "Initiate of the Hu man Body" or "Initiate of Leadership".

As tests are unlocked or released their associated principles become available to players that have or surpassed the level of that test, provi ding those players with another way in whic h to gain a level.

A Tale in the Desert is based around a fictional ancient Egypt setting