How do I play a multiplayer battle in Total War: SHOGUN 2 using Steam?

Playing a multiplayer battle in Total War: SHOGUN 2 is slightly different depending on whether you wish to host a battle, or simply join one.

To host:

1. In the Main Menu, place the mouse cursor over the Multiplayer icon and select Avatar Conquest from the menu that appears.

2. If you have not previously created an avatar, the Select/Create Avatar Profile screen will appear. Follow the instructions on-screen to create an avatar and play the avatar tutorial. Otherwise, proceed to the step below.

3. Click the Conquest Map button at the top of the screen.

4. Click the Battle List button at the top of the screen.

5. The Battle List screen will appear. Select Host Battle.

6. The Host Battle dialog will appear. Enter a game name and a password (optional), then click the Accept button (tick icon).

7. The Multiplayer Battle screen will appear. On this screen, you can customize your battle settings. To invite friends from your Steam friends' list to the battle, click the Envelope icon. Otherwise, proceed to step 9.

8. The Invite Friends dialog will appear. Tick the checkbox(es) next to the name(s) of the friend(s) you wish to invite, then click the OK button (tick icon).

9. When you are happy with your settings and other players have joined the game, click the Ready button (tick icon).

10. The game will begin once all the players have indicated that they are ready.

To join:

1. In the Main Menu, place the mouse cursor over the Multiplayer icon and select Avatar Conquest from the menu that appears.

2. If you have not previously created an avatar, the Select/Create Avatar Profile screen will appear. Follow the instructions on-screen to create an avatar and play the avatar tutorial. Otherwise, proceed to the step below.

3. Click the Conquest Map button at the top of the screen.

4. Click the Battle List button at the top of the screen.

5. The Battle List screen will appear. From the list of battles, highlight the battle you wish to join, then select Join.

6. The Multiplayer Battle screen will appear. On this screen, you can customize your battle settings. When you are happy with your settings, click the Ready button (tick icon).

7. The game will begin once all the players have indicated that they are ready.