Irish Questions

Hi everyone,

I haven't playes VI in ages but i'm bored and considering going back to it.

I used to play a lot as the Irish but found it too easy, once you have a foothold on the mainland, your economy will eventually see you through.

So this time, i've set myself a challenge; normally your first move (as I remember) is to ally with the Vikings and *shazam* you're safe on your island. and can strike at your leisure. I'm planning to avoid that. The big question is, is it possible to complete the game without the Viking alliance, or is the AI programmed to constantly attack you? If that is the case, i can't see the appeal.

So I suppose the question becomes, is it possible to play the game this way? Or, do the Irish need the Viking alliance to stand any chance of victory?

It's possible, but definitely harder to accomplish. The biggest problem is not raids, but the Viking navy. Your forces will be split until you can accumulate a decent fleet and beat back their ships from at least Muir Eriu and Saefern Mutha. This will prevent you from reinforcing your foothold on the main island.

With two spies and an emissary you can take out the Vikings. Split the spies between Jutland and Hordaland. This will cripple their economy, especially with four star spies. Then, send the emissary to snap up whichever one rebels first.

In my experience, Kerns make the whole Viking issue a lot easier to deal with.

Kerns should be used to harrass Huscarles and Landsmenn. Gallows and horses can take care of the rest (except maybe Berserkers).