Rockets are truly devastating (better than either ribault). They can work fairly well at long range given some valor. They are also one of the best weapons against Timurid elephants.

Elephant artillery is awesome. Siege that wouldn't slow down an all cav army and also really causes enemy troops to rout in the field. Note: funny to use against Aztecs.

Both those units can be hired as mercs near the areas where the Mongols/Timurids appear late in the game. No faction mods required.

For kicks, I suggest everyone try out the "Elephant Rocketeer" unit. It's a cheat but a total riot to use. They are what happens when you glue a rocket launcher onto an elephant.

create_unit Caen "Elephant Rocketeer" 2 9 3 3

Replace Caen with whatever city you want. 2 is # of units. Feel free to change the number. The other numbers specify full experience and upgrades.