[Gandalf Parker]

In multiplayer games the mercs are popular but not as much as you might think. In a solo game ANY set of mercs are useful when you can get them at only a few gold above the asking price. Im MP games it depends on the mercs. Some nations badly need a strong front-line to add to the units they start with. Others have a strong front-line and badly need support units. Some need researchers and item makers more than others. And Pangaea is so penalized (the mercs demand much more) that they are willing to bid high on the few mercs that look on them with favor.

As for starvation, you can stand it for short periods. It will lower your fighting ability but you can come out of it quickly if the next province has enough food to feed you. But if you stay too long in a starving position I believe you will get the big red hearts showing more permanent afflictions.