GUIDE · BATTLE STRATEGY
The Belly of the Beast Aquileia-first expansion
The Belly of the Beast gives you time to establish a resource-rich second base, but Aquileia is the closest and most aggressive opponent. Remove its outside economy and breach the northern gate before securing Cremona.
Overview
The Belly of the Beast gives you time to establish a resource-rich second base, but Aquileia is the closest and most aggressive opponent. Remove its outside economy and breach the northern gate before securing Cremona.
Plan and execution
Build west of the starting position near Cremona’s resources and use the delay before attacks to boom. Scout Aquileia’s economy outside its walls and raid it to weaken the faction, then assemble siege and Huskarls for the northern gate. After Aquileia is captured, add Pikemen against Cremona’s Knights and attack from both north and east. Watch the later Scout Cavalry event carefully because Sarus’ betrayal changes the diplomatic map.
Risks and adaptation
Ataulf will not lead the assault effectively, so do not rely on the ally to exploit weak defenses. Keep siege protected and hold a reserve for the scripted betrayal rather than sending every unit toward Cremona.
- Focus
- Second-base economy and scripted betrayal watch
- Signature / category
- Plan and execution
- Release / context
- Age of Empires II system
- Region
- Battle strategy
- Classification
- Battle strategies