espionage

[Barbiearian]

As players x5 can spy you, it makes keeping up with counter-espionage levels impossible. Its obvious that the guy who is attacking you, will just get a massively bigger player to spy you on his behalf, from his alliance. He could even have the babysitting rights, so doesn't even have to ask in the tribune.

You should put a penalty on spies, as you do with other troops.

And please - stop with this stupid speed with spies - how on earth can they really travel so fast. You can never press the counter button, unless you are playing against a noob. Everyone just sends spies - takes report, then recalls, as its only a matter of seconds for them to return (even though it might take your cavalry half hour to get there).

[Muwe]

Thank you for your suggestion. It shall be reviewed.

I will add this about the speed of the spies: Spies travel light. They do not require weapons or any type of armor making if easy for them to move around. Just like in the old times when there were scouts that were traveling around the main army to make sure there is no ambush attack coming from the sides or from behind.

Think about what a heavy cavalry will carry with  them: Armor on horse, armor on the horseman. Weapons (more then just a sword and shield). Most times a spear, knives, two handed swords on the back of the rider, on strapped on the horse and so on.
Think now about what a spy would need: A horse and a rain coat.