How to balance multiplayer when AI keeps spamming units?

[WilliamBeyer]

Hi everyone, I recently tried multiplayer against the AI (in a campaign scenario) and noticed the AI keeps spamming units heavily in the early turns — which often overwhelms my formation and leaves me falling behind. I’ve tried playing on Easy but it still happens.
I wanted to ask:

Is there any mod or add-on that tweaks AI behavior so it manages its resources more wisely?

Or are there any tips for using terrain/early-game tactics to counter heavy AI unit spam?

[ChaosRider]

Get the mod Bonus Spam. If you use this mod you will have on map places (randomly picked x, y and type of bonus) where your units can get some bonus. AI dont know how to use it so you will have advantage. Remember to end turn with unit on the hex where is label with bonus name then your unit will get it.

[beetlenaut]

Is there any mod or add-on that tweaks AI behavior so it manages its resources more wisely?

Since the AI was winning, it sounds like it was already playing a wise strategy! It sounds like you want it to play worse, so you have more of a chance. If it is not conserving resources, you shouldn't either. You often need to go into negative gold to counter the first wave in a campaign scenario.

You mentioned terrain, but it is more important than new players realize, and the AI is usually too aggressive to use it effectively. The difference between 60% and 40% is often the difference between winning and losing. Also, the AI is terrible at using support effects like healing and leadership. You can do it better.

You just need to practice, think more about what could happen after your moves, and concentrate on getting most of the experience in just one or two units, so you can level some ASAP. Eventually, you will find any "easy" level trivial to win.

[Spannerbag]

I agree with beetlenaut that it's better to try to beat the scenario rather than simply make it easier.

I'm no expert but impatience is often a player's downfall: take your time, don't rush!
There are many, many factors involved and it can be a tad confusing putting them togther to begn with.
There are loads of resources available on the forum especially advice on playing the game and scenario replays.
Here is one possible starting point.

Hope this helps.

Cheers!
-- Spannerbag