Let's talk about Pacal II here

[Bast]

Firstly, did a bit of reading on him and apparently he ascended to the throne at age 12. So those who are saying Pacal looks like a kid, well he was. Imagine being beaten in war by a 12-year-old kid.

Secondly, being looking at his traits and UB and he's a very powerful leader imo.

He's got Victoria's old traits: financial and expansive. I've always defended imperialistic mostly because I love the real queen Victoria but I have to admit she was a much stronger leader with financial and expansive. Much more rounded to win any victory type. Now, if you're not a warmonger with her, you're not making the most out of her traits. Which is sad.

Anyway, back to Pacal. His UB gives happiness boost and the cheap granaries just beg for slavery. He can easily have really big cities quicker than anyone else and use your workers to spam cottages asap. Not to mention, mysticism to grab an early religion and shrine and you're set.

I still like Victoria but wish she had financial expansive like in vanilla.

And I can't wait to play a game as Pacal.

Thoughts?

 

[Underdawg]

Yes, Yes, and Yes?

Polytheism + Settler first or warriors for growth tends to be a good opening. Follow up with Hunting for Holkans and then Wheel/Agri/Pottery for early cottages and you are good to go!

And yes, get some granaries asap and whip for Ball courts and then whip as much as you want... well, almost.

I haven't played a game as the Maya yet, but I know that the Pacal AI is always competitive techwise (though not always militarily... must be because of the frequent wonder building endeavors).