[Edratman]

Glad you figured out the upkeep. That is an inherent side effect of the BI mod. I tried the version with low gold and high resources, but it appeared to me that the computer had lower forces and I suspected that it was trying to recruit the units anyway. Didn't try it long, the gold cost version worked well, although it does pose some issues with upkeep on occasion. Easy enough to deal with and just an additional minor handicap.

I only play the mod for the magic. I love forging and magic. Probably explains why I am such a crappy player.

Have you tried the "Improved Computer Opponents" Mod? There is one for MA and one for EA. Each one toughens up 6 AI nations significently. The mod restricts the number of recruits available using only the best of each nation, eliminates capitol only restrictions and gives the computer a much better starting army. The AI appears smarter because of restricted choices.