How do you use standard generals?

[tinkthank]

I notice that no matter what nation I play, I tend to get casters or at least those commanders who have some special ability. I almost never get the "Emerald Lord / Machaka Chief / Traitor Prince / etc. type" -- what about you?

Basically, I only get the other types if I am in desperate need of a quick commander; I feel that the slightly lower costs hardly justify me to spend that turn's commander recruitment on a person who can hopefully avoid arrows. Aside from being very helpful in battle, a mage can at the very least do some research and some forging, a priest can build a temple or preach, a scout can give me information, etc. -- but what can a general do besides ferry troops around and die? This is not an ironic question. I feel I am missing something.
Merci

[Arryn]

Originally posted by tinkthank:
but what can a general do besides ferry troops around and die? This is not an ironic question. I feel I am missing something.

If the commander in question only cost 30g, then ferrying troops and making a target of themselves so other, more valuable, commanders don't die is good enough and well worth their low cost. If you feel that's not enough, and your priests are otherwise busy, give them a Sceptre of Authority so they can bLast the enemy with Flame Bolts every turn ...

[Gandalf Parker]

It depends on your playing style. There are some tactics which work better by having as many commanders as possible on the field. There are equipment items which work better at close range and dont stay in the battle long if given to a mage. There are some commander tactics (5 specific commands rather than one general one such as troops get) which definetly need a mounted commander or someone heavily armored or someone who has bonuses in specific weapon use.

But if the commander types that you are purchasing fit your style then there isnt much need to question it. Individual playing style in this game is definetly a high percentage of whether or not something will work.

[PvK]

Great answer, Gandalf!

Ditto. I've used them for lots of things, myself.

PvK

[tinkthank]

Thanks, this is helpful.

[NTJedi]

I like to give the bag of wine(feeds_25_units) to unimportant commanders. This item only costs 2 nature when having the ForgeoftheAncients spell. Also giving them a bow of accuracy allows them to still make a few kills in battle. If facing lots of undead opponents give them the herald spear(solar_rays_spell).

I don't use standard commanders that often either... maybe if they had more life they would be more worthwhile.

[ March 02, 2004, 18:24: Message edited by: NTJedi ]