Please note: A lot of this discussion, especially the initial list here, were written before the 1.17 patch. With the ability to upgrade to UUs and the dice roll for fast unit retreat, it probably needs re-evaluation. Please keep this in mind as you read. (Edit: 2/19/2002 by Arathorn)
What civs are easiest/hardest to play? As far as I can determine, the key factors are civ-specific traits and Unique Units (UU). The manual claims that diplomacy is easier with culturally linked neighbors, but I'm not sure how large a role, if any, that plays, so I am ignoring it.
All of the following are based purely on my opinion. I've not played all the civs. I'm also assuming a high difficulty level (deity or maybe emperor). I'd be interested in hearing others' views.
