Strategic Advice for Saka Rauka Campaign

[Achilleus]

Howdy everyone,

I've been around for a bit, but I'm not the most prolific poster. I've played a few Romani campaigns (since 0.8) and have made it all the way to the steppes to fight against massive HA armies -I emerged victorious, but usually suffer heavy casualties, especially amongst my own light missile troops. Needless to say, I've given the old adage "If you can't beat them, join them" a shot!

I'm loving this campaign -especially after having just watched the movie Mongol, a Russian film about Genghis Khan that had some gorgeous steppe scenery and some massive steppe warfare (probably not that historically accurate, but not bad for a movie). Currently I'm in the year 260 and have subdued most of the immediate region to the Caspian Sea and those pesky Parthians. Had some dicey moments here & there, being in massive debt (-20,000 mnai), but I've emerged making ~400 mnai/turn. Starting armies (~8 standard HAs, 3 medium HAs Early Saka Nobles, 2 foot archers, and a few family members) have been depleted to about 1/4-1/3 strength, but are now at least silver chevroned. I'm currently at war with Parthia (down to 1 territory) and the Seleucids (seem to be focused fighting others right now) and am neutral with Baktria, which keeps on creeping up with 1/2-3/4 stacks near my borders.

I'd like some advice on how to strengthen my economy, rebuild my army, solidify my borders, and continue my conquest. Any suggestions on compositions of economical armies? It's is quite a dramatic change from my standard heavy infantry tactics (though I must say surrounding the enemy and pouring down enfillade fire is quite satisfying ) & powerful economic domination strategies of the Romani and Makedonians, but a fun challenge nonetheless. Thanks for the help & thanks EB team for this great mod.

-Achilleus

[Warmaster Horus]

This is an excellent guide to starting out as the Saka. Sure helped me out.