Why build Fortresses?

[Arameyan]

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This works perfectly in Single player, but this strategy have many flaws. Sure N10 Niefels giants are incredibly strong, but good players will counter them (Fatigue, Death bless for afflictions, mass destruction spells).

Also, with only a dominion of 4 many players will see the opportunity to "Dominion-fight" you. I think your ever-figthing giants will get tired rapidly in warms provinces, so a high dominion (minimum 6 if you dont plan to use temples) could be useful I think.

For your questions:

1. It depends on the game. PD helps to "control" where the AI will attack. If you dont encounter challenging AI it's not a big problem. Remember: PD doesnt require upkeep.

2. Your strategy doesn't seem to require many forts. In Single player that's a matter of taste. Where do you spend your money? Just giants? Researching magic (need more fortress) can be a good way to diversify your strategy and to be more able to adapt.

3. That's a weird question.... Build em only if u want to go in water! In SP you play until youre satisfied. So if you just want to conquer land, thats your choice. Are water provinces worthing it? I think it depends on the General's (or God) vision of the game (you!).

[Shovah32]

Well fortresses are usually pointless vrs the ai as you can crush them easily but, they do let you build extra national troops (i like jotun javelin throwers) and mages each turn.