Yes, the game balance portion of the mod is the single area least tested; I have only played through a single game using the most recent v1.01.
Your comments are logical and for the most part I agree with your reasoning, so I have made the following changes and uploaded v1.02, which is availible through the same link.
Changelist:
1). Yamabushi Monk's prot is reduced, price raised.
2). Samurai Bowman changed to use composite bow for balance reasons, despite the thematic inaccuracy- Daikyu were often described as "great war bows" and were very large. This will be changed again when equipment modding becomes possible.
3). Genin and Chunin now fight with poison daggers. The siege engineer skill is not possible to mod in yet, but the flavor text has been changed.
4). Jonin's resource cost has increased but his stats and attack remain unchanged. His expense is great, and compared to similarly priced Vans he lacks protection, priestly power, weapon length, and is extremely vulnerable to projectiles. Cheap ranged units like archers or slingers decimate Groups of Genin and Jonin with suprising ease.
5). Chunin's "fist" attack removed and his cost has been greatly increased.
6). Inital gem income reduced.
7). Senin Master's magic is reduced, and his cost is increased.
Ashikaga Shogunate v1.02
[ January 27, 2004, 02:36: Message edited by: Potatoman ]