Playing as a Muslim Faction

[gollum]

Hello BB,
JAs are theoretically faster to tech up to since they only require the master bowyer that you can build on the Citadel level, while the JI require the master swordsmith as well that needs the Fortress. They have decent melee stats for the occasional flanking and they can operate behind the main line inflicting casualties to the enemy in crucial units (Knights and the like) from afar.
All in all the JAs are one of the best archer units in the game stats wise IIRC (together with the longbows that also have good melee stats and AP attack IIRC).

The JI on the other hand melee units with a bow - their shooting abilities while welcome arent the essence - their melee abilities (that the Turks otherwise generally lack in their units) are.

Generally after all Janissary units are available i make stacks with 2 JA 2 JI 2 JHI, plus whatever other.