ok you have all convinced me. I am going back to Babylon to test various situations where masonry is the second tech. Will report back soon.
Leoreth, I am most of the way through a Greek game and it has been too easy. The change you describe would make it way more challenging and way more interesting. Also explain MM UHV please.
First attempt, Greece spawned at war with me and with chariots. Both things I meant to ask you about as it has happened a few times. Usually they can be repulsed but this time I was defeated
However a couple comments on the strategy as outlined by yourself.
#1 pottery is required for writing
#2 Masonry requires either mining or mysticism, therefore you need to research four techs before being able to start quarrying. Then time to build the sphynx, then time to spawn an artist. At the stage I was at when the greek-wonder-chariot defeated me (~ turn 55) not sure if this is going to be possible but i will attempt again
WTF-My second attempt independant jerusalem attacked my undefended city and I lost on like turn 10. That has never happened and I've played about 10 Babylon games in the last week. Maybe we're on to something and the game knows we're going to beat it. But that would suggest that computers are gaining intelligence and the end of days is coming, in which case who cares about Babylon.
Anyhoo, back to reality (or at least what passes for reality in my world)