The best way to start?

[williamsiddell]

Imagine it says 'the best faction to start?'

Don't know enough about the Romans only that I wouldn't choose Julii to start with.

As above with Denari.

With rebels expect more if a city has had a slave boost or has unrest.

As above with structure.

If you try to max population then a growth temple will make a big difference to slow growing cities (and there are many).

My top three mercs: Cretan, Rhodian and Sarmatian. Ensure a good general.

As above with amok.

Devastation: Rebels spawned by a rebel city don't cause devastation when the city is taken. Watch for devastation cost increasing with income - it seems to grow over time even though you've removed the cause.