Punjab
Punjab is a Definitive Edition map set across the plains of India and Pakistan. It combines open terrain with a fordable river to the north, a southern Trade Route bordering the Thar Desert, Water Buffalo and abundant Wood from dense forests and a starting Mango Grove Rickshaw.
Map character
Scout the northern river crossing before moving the army across; a ford can create a predictable approach and a place to defend or raid. Locate the two Udasi temples and the southern Trade Route, then plan which one to contest first. The starting Mango Grove Rickshaw and forest clusters make Wood unusually available, while Water Buffalo and Berry Bushes contribute Food. Marathan Dacoits and Marathan Thugs are listed Outlaws.
What to scout
Use the river as a route and timing cue, not as a guaranteed wall: identify the actual crossings and protect the army while it moves. A southern post can advance shipments, while the Udasi sites provide Minor Civilization access. Because the map has abundant Wood and multiple food sources, a Dock or extra lumber economy is a choice to make from scouting rather than a fixed requirement.
A ford and a route divide the map
The northern fordable river creates a crossing between the starting plain and the grassland beyond. The Trade Route lies to the south beside the Thar Desert. These positions create two distinct areas to scout: the river approach for movement and the route for shipment control. Defend crossings when retreating, and keep a route to the Udasi settlements open if alliance research is part of the plan.
A Wood-rich opening with several food sources
Punjab’s dense forests and starting Mango Grove Rickshaw make Wood easier to access than on a sparse map, while Water Buffalo and Berry Bushes offer nearby Food. This can support an early building plan, but workers still need protection and the precise resources vary by seed. Udasi temples and Marathan Outlaws add map objectives; evaluate their locations before splitting the force.