New Spain initially controls a huge amount of land, stretching from Mexico to a good portion of South America. In fact, it is the largest minor faction in the game in terms of regions--it is tied only with the Thirteen Colonies; in addition, it boasts larger, more populous lands than the Thirteen Colonies and more lucrative potential for development. However, it rarely (if ever) develops its economy and remains in a relatively weak state throughout its usually short lifespan. If Spain is controlled by the A.I, New Spain usually comes under Spanish control within the first few turns. If Spain is controlled by the player, then Dutch Curacao, Pirate Trinadad and Tobago, and Pueblo controlled Texas must come under Spanish control for New Spain to join the Spanish Empire.