Deep Slingshot

[Arrian]

Like difficulty. I've done it on Prince with both the Inca and the Persians (granted, I got horses right next to Persopolis, so it was all set up for me).

The Inca are strong. The Quecha can harrass the hell out of the AI early (not necessarily conquer them, mind) and handle the barbs (so you can ignore archery for a while - playing raging barbs that's a real leg up) and you start with Myst, so you can take a shot at Buddism.

-Arrian

[Atomation]

You really might want to try out having the monarchy in any slingshot you do. Mass cottages with hereditary rule is extremely powerful, especially with an early academy from scientist #1.