Italians

The Italians are an economic civilization focused on Feudal Age advancement and naval dominance. The cost to advance through Ages is 15% cheaper — a significant economic advantage that enables faster Castle Age and Imperial Age timings. Fishing Ships are cheaper, making them excellent on water maps. Genoese Crossbowmen have bonus damage against mounted units, providing a strong answer to cavalry. Condottieri — their team bonus unique unit — can be trained by all team members from the Barracks. Unique technology Pavise gives foot archers additional armor. Silk Road reduces Trade Cart cost. Italians are excellent in water-heavy and hybrid maps, and their faster advance times give them flexibility in virtually any opening strategy.