FYI I have posted mod that will make AI kick your butts. It contains enhanced Versions of standard cultures that will give AI more bonuses (think of it as extra hard). All you need to do (once you install this mod) is to edit .emp files for each empire you will put in the game and change their culture to their corresponding enhanced Version. For example change 'Warriors' to 'Enh. Warriors' and save new .emp file. The race will receive better bonuses after that. Of course, use only the standard ones yourselves if you want challenging game.
It also contains 2 new cultures and happiness types: Conquerors and Protectors. These cultures give huge bonuses and should be used carefully. Usually only 1 or 2 races per game should use these. I have experience with Pyrochette from Master Belisarius that use Conquerors culture and they out produce me, out research me, out gun me, and just generally kick my arse (that is a new feeling for me, trust me
). You need to be carefull with AI bonuses as well using these cultures or you won't stand a chance. Don't say I didn't warn you
. Of course, they are best used with moded races (TDM or other moded races).
Installation:
Just unzip to SE4 main folder or the folder of the mod you are using (like TDM Mod Pack).
After that you will need to edit .emp files for each race you want to use new cultures and that is it. Kick a$$ AI in no time.
Use at your own risk.
It is compatible with practically all mods posted here since it only adds new cultures and new happines types.