Time to create your own custom Civ for MP!

[Arrian]

Theseus,

Imm/Hop... damn, that would be a ***** to deal with. Probably the one of the best counters for my MW/Impi combo (Hoplites/WCs would be nasty too).

Speaking of WCs... Impi/WCs would mean no need for upgrade cash. None. You could either blow a ton of it on swordsmen, or throw it into research.

-Arrian

[Harovan]

What about Scientific + Industrious + Numidian Mercenaries + Immortals?

Scientific: Provides BW from the start and lets you build your first UU. 1 tech apart is IW with your 2nd UU --> ultra early warfare.

Industrious: Enormous important for a good start. Gives both fast production and commerce. Builds fast roads for your slowmovers.

On a standard or smaller map, Numidian Mercenaries + Immortals together should be unstoppable by anything up to Cavalry.

[Arrian]

My issue with Num. Mercs is that you are paying 50% more shields for a Hoplite with +1 attack. Like I'm gonna risk a 30-shield, 2 attack unit on offense! Especially if I have Immortals available!

I'd rather save the shields for more hoplites to defend my immortals.

-Arrian

[Donegeal]

Wow. What a concept.
Mounted Warrior guarded by Impi.
The retreat factor makes this an even better combo than Hopilite/Immortal.
Traits- Mil/Ind.
Mil for quicker promotions, better chances of GL and cheap barracks.
Ind for fast mines and roads.
Wheel and WC. Get the Impi immediately then one tech for MW.
Kill everyone.

....and they like the blitz ability of the Panzer....