SullyRob wrote:So I got Alea Jacte est and all its DLC a few days ago and I was just wondering if anyone had any advice on what was the best scenario to start on for beginners to AGEOD games like this? I know its a pretty newbie question but the advice would be appreciated since this game doesn't give a difficulty rank with the scenarios like most of the AGEOD games. Thanks.
I'd suggest start with either Marius in his civil war with Sulla or the Vespasians in the 4 Emperors scenario.
Both these are the dominant faction (the scenarios are realistic rather than balanced) so you should get a win but in both you will need to learn key game mechanics and concepts.
With Vespesian the challenge is to learn how to convert the game 'currencies' - money. morale, engagement pts - to get enough to release the Danubian legions. This forces a nice degree of planning and careful use of the regional cards and decisions. Don't be too quick to pull the Eastern legions west or you will have major problems.
With Sulla you'll come to appreciate the difference that a good commander makes. It will also give you a feel for how the non-Roman factions fight - the Pontics appear scary so you need to find the right ground (ie where frontage is limited) to fight them on.
Also both are relatively quick to play so if it all goes wrong, well easy to restart and try a different tack.
Another good starting point is Spartacus - relatively low unit density but you will have to deal with the frustration of sieges without legions and an army made up of a range of unit types.