I can't help but feel that the game would benefit from having some a-historical 'factions' (Syracuse/Massilia) that are unplayable, but would allow the player to interact with them.

Under the current system there is no way to represent factions interactions with certain regions like Rome's alliance with Syracuse etc. There is no benefit for the player to leave Syracuse alone as was historical.

To make 'Syracuse' a viable mini-faction it would need an assortment of territories, like Massilia etc. Having it's territories spread out would most likely prevent it from becoming a regional power.....which is good.

I know that making factions unplayable seems against the 'spirit' of EB but perhaps the players experience can be improved by it's implemetation.

Cheers,

Quilts