Why do mercenaries suck?

[Budwise]

Hey, I didn't say it was a 100% accurate or even worth watching. But it did spawn the idea to study the battle further. The only reason why I posted it was because it seemed that the whole battle was based around Ransom and I found that maybe it would help with a point or two.

Ever since I was a kid learning how to read, I would rather get my information through a book or now the new hightech books - the internet - instead of the History Channel or other programming.

It just was interesting, thats all.

[m52nickerson]

If mercs are good for one thing, its getting a few units that you normally could not get. Example, Longbowmen are good merc groups, they tend to stay out of combat so they build valor and live a long time. Siege weapons are also good, that way if they get tore up, you don't have to wait two years to build another one.

[Martok]

If mercs are good for one thing, its getting a few units that you normally could not get. Example, Longbowmen are good merc groups, they tend to stay out of combat so they build valor and live a long time. Siege weapons are also good, that way if they get tore up, you don't have to wait two years to build another one.

I hire siege weapons as well, especially in the early game when all I can build are ballistas and maybe catapults. It's nice being able to add some mangonels and trebuchets to one's arsenal.

[Mount Suribachi]

Yeah, I do agree that mercs are a very useful way to get siege engines in early.

The point about using mercs for missile units is one I'd not considered before.

Although as I'm currently playing as Byzantium and get +1 Trebizond Archers and +1 Bulgarian Brigands I shouldn't need merc archers

[antisocialmunky]

Yeah, mercs are GREAT for sieges. You can get Bombards in early if you're in the East. I also have to agree that archers are great merc units. I always stock up on archers to hold out against the Camel Hordes and the Mongu-Dai.

You can get Polearm units too. I think the best role of mercs is to fillout specialized niches for balanced armies.