[Baalz]

Well, if I spend 2000 gold on infantry and you spend 2800 then I can afford 5-6 more smiths or an extra castle. 40% more troops is not going to equate to 40% more expansion of your map move 1, more fragile troops, and most certainly not 40% more staying power when you start fighting tougher foes. This is compounded by the lower upkeep cost if I'm buying castles as I suggested.

Look, I'm not saying there aren't situations where the chainmail is useful, and you can certainly use them effectively. I'm just answering the original question as to if black plate infantry is worth it. I think so in many situations.