I think, especially with these changes, that MA Ulm will be on even footing with most MA races. I plan on playing them as soon as I find the time for another game. I am so excited!!!
Tuidjy - we have debated this to death. I won't risk further rational discussion with you. But, surely you must admit that MA Ulm is certainly better than it was before after this patch? And, you wouldn't argue that MA Ulm can't possibly win a competitive multiplayer game, would you? There are plenty of factors that could throw a game towards one faction or another, regardless of the units/mages it may or may not have. I mean, what about good old fashioned luck? MA Ulm isn't so bad, even before these changes, that it had no chance whatsoever.
In that game that I won, I got Olg's Alchemical Device in my capital, which helped me immensely (it was a substantial portion of my income - it was a small map). I also found some excellent magic sites very early on. It was also a victory point game, which meant I didn't have to defeat Jurri (who is an excellent player of course and who was giving me hell during that one).
Point being, if the cards fall your way, MA Ulm can win, there's no doubt. So stop with the rediculous absolutist arguements. And that was before the new changes.
You have been asking for MA Ulm to get some love, and it's finally happened. So why are you still upset? No one is forcing you to play them.