I do agree with you on the value of archers. If cattle or pigs are within reach, I'll go for the Animal Husbandry early on, otherwise, I typically do not gamble on getting Horses. Archers are definitely a must, warriors just don't cut it. Along those lines, I also try and get a barracks fairly early, and find the archer promotions with the anti-melee and anti-archery bonuses are quite valuable.

I usually go: -Warrior until size 2 is reached -Worker (switch even if warrior is not finished) -Warrior/Archer while city grows to size 3 and worker improves terrain -Settler Of course, it always depends on circumstance, but that's about how I go it too, working in a barracks in there where I can. I always build at least 1 worker 1st. Maybe 2. I tend to procrastinate building military for a bit. I have a time-table in my head to have them by about 1900BC as thats about the earliest you see barbarians. But cow, that first warrior isn't there to protect the city, he's there to scout out the lands and help the other find more tribal huts. Of course, this always depends on circumstances, there may not be all that much land to explore, as it may be. Another thing I've learned the hard way is: If you want a certain spot for a city, and have the troops to spare, get the troops to the site long before the settler. By keeping the fog of war off the area, the location won't become unsuitable due to a barb city popping up. Excellent advice there. Barbs are the scourge of the open land. If you can swing it, the Great Wall is one hell of a wonder to get. Keep in mind that the best terrain in the world doesn't do anything until you can improve it. Early workers are essential on high levels. Try to have a worker hop along with your early settlers, so you don't have to wait for 15 turns. Chop early workers/ settlers, so your cap doesn't stagnate, and you don't lose too much time. Don't think you can save those lovely trees to grab the statue of liberty (or heavens forbid, the pyramids) later on. There is only now. You need to grab land now. Chop chop... Zig, you don't have to tell me twice the value of workers! One thing I have not fully embraced yet is early use of slavery. I understand it's value, if the workers are not working, just whip 'em so they will work, but I've only tended to use it when I absolutely need it, and by then it's prolly too late. Cheers.

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