Thanks guys!
Good analogy on the MTG as well, it does seem very similar especially with the multiple magic paths.
I obviously haven't been dealing with magic effectively yet, I'll end a game with a ton of gems, rarely alchemize them, never empower, never search. Being on the demo and limited to lvl 4 spells I thought I wouldn't need to...oops (especially while the AI doesn't seem to be limited
Someone mentioned in another thread that a possible way to stave off multi thrashings is to stay on top of the army graph, even if its just with your cheapest units stockpiled.
Other than the greeks (ascepolis?) siege guys, are there specific strategies for breaking into forts? I can have an overwhelming # of troops, and still get stuck on the door forever.
How much does itemization (forging) play into everything? Is it generally better to rush research or initially get your main guys geared up then research? I'm assuming the construction path buffs your available forging recipes, is it worth hitting early?
Thanks again, i'll try the buffing of the archers approach. (I'm assuming longbow gives a better range/damage then shortbow/slings and thus more attacks before melee go at it.)