GUIDE · EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN

Byzantines Strategy

Byzantines: Keep the opening flexible and preserve a safe economy; cheap counter units make reactive defense efficient. Use the broad counter roster to answer enemy composition instead of committing early to one expensive line.

Overview

Opening decision and first timing

Cheap Camels, Spearmen, and Skirmishers let the first defensive army match the threat without locking into one expensive line. Use free vision upgrades and tougher buildings to see an attack sooner and preserve workers, but still scout outward: a completely passive defense can surrender Relics and outside resources.

Composition, counters, and transition

Crossbowmen or Camels can lead the Castle Age attack while Monks and siege solve particular matchups. The discounted Imperial advance is useful when the existing army can survive the transition and exploit the new upgrades promptly. Cataphracts are a costly infantry answer, so build them when the opponent’s composition merits it; on water, faster Fire Ships and Dromons can contest a crossing while the land economy stays protected.

Opening priorities

Keep the opening flexible and preserve a safe economy; cheap counter units make reactive defense efficient.

Core army

Use the broad counter roster to answer enemy composition instead of committing early to one expensive line.

Technology & transition

Advance into the stronger later-age technology options, then use trash units and siege to stretch the opponent’s resources.

Watch for

The economy does not accelerate as quickly as some rivals, and the Stable lacks key upgrades; protect any mounted investment.

Also known as: Byzantines (Age of Empires II)/Strategy
Focus: Civilization opening and matchup plan
Signature / category: Strategy guide
Release / context: The Age of Kings
Region: Eastern Mediterranean
Classification: Civilization plans