Beyond the Sword has more civilizations and conditions, but it has a "random event" mechanic, some of which depending on geographic position, which you still can turn off when activating a custom game. Doesn't really matter what time to try it. Haven't done Warlords (the first expansion) much, but it adds Great Generals and has a few more leader mentalities, at least from what I know of.
Oh yes, and if you like mods, try out all the different expansions to see all the different ones. One particularly notable one is the Rhyes and Fall of Civilization in BTS. Basically, it's a what-if based upon real history; the civilizations are indeed in chronological order.
EDIT: In my experience, yes, Isabella is a bitch and so is Constantine.
edited 7th Dec '10 9:37:14 AM by WartysNeryon
Micromastophile
Is there a way to keep playing my current game in Beyond the Sword? The multiple short cuts confused me.
(4 complete if you are wondering)
default difficulty setting, terra map type.
Fairly fun so far. Saved sometime after 1500 ad last night.
Early on I maximized production and built settlers quick to grab a 3rd of the starting landmass for my faction.
So far everyone has been at peace. Isabella made war with someone, but I shut her up by giving her divine right.
I have just discovered the 2nd landmass (I took over a barbarian state and am looking for somewhere to use my settler) and have gunpowder units while everyone else is stuck with archers. Any advice for war, should I choose (or be forced) to go that route, beyond building an assload of musketmen?
Also, when should I try out the expansion packs?
edited 7th Dec '10 9:18:00 AM by deuxhero