Colonization

[GeneTheDude]

Hello all, I'm new to these forums, but I've been poking around, gathering as much information as possible to use in my own experiences. Now I'd like to pass on a little tip, though some may not find it useful.

Colonies:
What I've been doing as of lately is conquer a sizable landmass in America or India. After about 3-4 provinces, I'd go to one of the smaller weaker nations that are able to become my protectorate, and in exchange for that, I'd give them the conquered provinces. Now as I understand it, I get half their overall income, plus all the advantages of an ally. So It's like an actual colony. They pay me, and I don't have to babysit those regions. Now I'm not sure if you guys see this as a possibility, consider you could make more if you just kept them. But I find it's alot easier to manage my empire in europe when I have my other interests watched by weaker nations that are shaking in their boots at the thought of betraying me.

That pretty much sums up the colonization ideas. I'd like your opinions on this subject, please state the pros and cons, and if you agree or find this useful in any way. Any information would be greatly appriated.

[ColdFire]

Nice idea, similar to the 13 colonies at start of CG

[notger]

Sounds historically correct; AFAIK, that was how Britain ruled half of India with the other half being properly owned.

Problems:
- We do not know yet, wether protectorates may break free (Rome:TW, anyone?).
- You get only half the income and no income from the trade goodies will be shipped to Europe to be selled by you to other nations. I do not know, wether your protectorate act reasonably and you get half of their trade income, too.
- You could lose your military edge by not having a basis in that theatre to recruit and replenish troops.

[Aldgarkalaughskel]

This is a very nice indeed, GeneTheDude.

Does someone know how can you set up new colonies if you don't have any at the start of the game?

[Tontis]

Great first post

[fourganger]

+ rep

Historically accurate and strategically sound. Nice one!

[tuore]

Going to try it now.

[awisler]

I did a similar thing to the Cherokees, who had taken Florida. Except I took Florida and Georgia for the ports, and then had my ally GB one province to the north of me, and my protectorates the Cherokees as a border on the rest of the land. This way I got some of the luxury exports without too much management.

So if you do want some of the cotton/tobacco etc, just create a pocket around one province with that luxury and make that pocket your protectorate.