Map size is usually small, and quick speed. So early game matters heavy.

So far Babylon for aggressive+bowmen seem to be the most powerful, I sometimes go the odd Mongolian or Holy-Roman, but if you lack the resource your UU is shut out, which sucks.
I tried Isabella going for early religion+horse archers. And then got rampaged with spearmen, I guess I walked into that though.

I never play MP games, but isn't Rome a decent choice? Beeline IW, get some Iron hooked up and start spamming Praets, which have a long timeframe which is interesting considering you play quick.

Try Egypt with Hathseput (or wathever her name is). War chariot is available very early. Cultural for fast border pops and spiritual for fast switching to slavery.

I never play MP games, but isn't Rome a decent choice? Beeline IW, get some Iron hooked up and start spamming Praets, which have a long timeframe which is interesting considering you play quick.

Everyone else will know you're Rome and you'll be target #1.