I have been playing France (on Norm). Im interested in hearing the first year set ups, moves and goals of other French players and the results. Ive been trying a variety of different approaches. Im interested in building a big economy. At what point do you begin spamming Merchant ships? How many Trade ports do you develop and expand? If you lower taxes how long does it take before it benefits your economy? Ive been mostly going after Austria first, if i go after Prussia instead (and neutral nations) how long until Austria jumps? I was trying looting and then abandoning Austria cities as a way of trying to build up my cities and then go back after them later, but either Prussia jumps before im ready or Great Britain lands. How many units do i need to leave in my cities to deter GB? What is your ideal make up of each army? lately i have been doing AI battles. Im just interested in any and all info. Thanks