[Gandalf Parker]

OK here would be my own effort. Just in general terms (needing tweaks for specific nations)

Buy a non-special commander with high leader ability. Able to lead 50 or 75 troops? Then each turn buy one cheap non-commander type (scout, spy, assassin, priest) and as many of the cheapest units possible (slingers, light infantry). That is the patrolling army. Each round you also raise the tax level 10%?

When the patrolling army is maxxed then start a moving army. Heavy commander and a high troop leadership ability. Start building the 5 different unit Groups to assign to him. Section 1 should have a mix of all infantry and be 50% of the army. Section 2 should be shooters for 20% of the army (archers, crossbows, javelin, slingers) to be positioned directly behind section 1. Sections 3 and 4 are the flanks. Large units or cavalry making up 20%. Section 5 is longrange such as longbows or flyers.

I would say that filling up the LI, then the shooters, then section five, and Lastly the section 4 (hvy cavalry/elephants/hydra/chariots) would keep you from having to support the higher upkeep-cost and supply eating units for a long time before marching them out.

But how does that compare with what the AI does now? Should I scatter the purchases so that a low-independent small-map rush game doesnt take me too soon? If I do that then Im not playing very good for the longer games.