A strong defensive position can create opportunities for counterattacks in age of war. When enemy units are stopped before reaching the player’s base, the defender gains time to continue producing units and accumulating resources. This breathing room can make it possible to prepare a stronger offensive wave rather than responding continuously to incoming threats. However, defense becomes less effective when it merely delays an inevitable defeat. Players need to use the time gained through protection to improve their position, recruit useful units, or move toward a more advanced era.