Best Civ and why

[Iranon]

In a competitive environment, I think Mali warps the game more than any other. Skirmishers are favoured against any non-unique unit, allow a capable rush or catapult-driven war independent of resources and can flat-out prevent most things that would give them trouble. Not picking Mali or Inca (Quechuas are the only guaranteed remedy) is a considerable gamble.

 

[Army of Scouts]

In my humble opinion, I've found that the best civ isn't coupled with the best leader unless you play unrestricted leaders and an great early game will lead to a great end.

A good combo to try is Hammurabi (usually of Babby) with summeria. He can rex or conquer depending on what you want to do. This combo has a bronze age axeman as strong as a swordsman with hammys agg., and a bonus against melee. No close civs or bronze? Rexin' time! summerias ub is a courthouse available at priesthood and costs 90 hammy is org. so it only cost 45. This is a very flexable combo.

What's the best civ you ask? The one in your hands my friend.

 

[Ataxerxes]

That's a common sentiment... but if you want to try cheating, then try playing the Gods of Old mod, unlock any leader/civ combination, pick Qin Shi Huang as leader of the Native Americans, build Stonehenge and Church of the Tempest ASAP and Barracks in every city, and start spamming Drill I/Combat I/Enlil's Guidance super-archers while you beeline Feudalism for Vassalage and Longbows. For extra fun, see if you can get Inanna's Stronghold as well for Drill I/Enlil's Guidance/Unbridled Fury super-archers. It's laughable.

Gods of Old can really cheat. My favorite was taking Rome and the religion that gave you an extra movement point. 2-Move Praetorians, anyone? It's actually a fun mod although I don't find most of the Godly disasters to be worth much. Spiritual is an awesome trait in Gods of Old because of the extra Temple abilities.