Age of Empires IV Byzantines versus the French

The Byzantines and French represent two distinct cultures and playstyles in Age of Empires 4. Let's delve into their strengths and weaknesses to understand how they might fare against each other.
The Byzantines: A Defensive Powerhouse
Strengths:
Powerful defenses: Their unique units like the Cataphract and Imperial Hippodrome make them formidable in defensive battles.
Economic strength: The Cistern technology provides a significant boost to their economy, allowing them to sustain long-term campaigns.
Versatile units: The Byzantine Archers are excellent at harassing enemy units and structures.
Weaknesses:
Slower unit production: Their units can take longer to produce, making them vulnerable to early aggression.
Less mobile units: Many of their units are slower and less agile than those of other civilizations.
The French: A Balanced Force
Strengths:
Strong cavalry: Their French Knights are among the best cavalry units in the game, capable of devastating enemy forces.
Versatile units: The French have a well-rounded army, with units suited for both offense and defense.
Powerful siege weapons: Their Trebuchets and Catapults can deal significant damage to enemy structures.
Weaknesses:
Vulnerability to counterattacks: While their units are powerful, they can be vulnerable to counterattacks if not used strategically.
Less economic strength: The French economy is not as robust as that of some other civilizations.
The Showdown: Byzantines vs. French
The matchup between the Byzantines and the French is a complex one. The Byzantines' defensive prowess can make it difficult for the French to break through their lines. However, the French's powerful cavalry and versatile units can pose a serious threat to the Byzantines.
Key factors that will influence the outcome:
Early game aggression: The French can benefit from a strong early-game push to disrupt the Byzantines' economic development.
Byzantine defenses: The Byzantines' ability to fortify their positions and hold off French attacks will be crucial.
French cavalry: The effectiveness of the French Knights in breaking through Byzantine lines will be a key factor.
Economic management: Both civilizations will need to manage their economies effectively to sustain their armies and maintain a technological advantage.