Empire: Total War - Game Mechanics - Diplomacy - Alliances and patronages - game guide, walkthrough, secrets, game tips & strategies

When you have very good relations with some nations you can make an alliance with them. It may result in even better relations and will allow you to demand a military support. When someone is declaring war to you, you can ask your allies for help. If you are declaring a war do not call your friends (if you will do that you will be forced to share conquered territory with your allies).

Alliance will allow you to sign trade or military agreements easier and quicker. It is connected with the relations between countries – the better they are, the faster you can sign an agreement with them.

Alliance is a good way to trick your enemy. When you are going to attack your opponent simply sign an alliance with him (or patronage, it is almost the same) and note that you also want a military access. You will be able to enter enemy territory with your troops and conquer some provinces and cities. However, that kind of behavior can result in worse relations with other countries – they may think that you cannot be trusted.

Patronage is a way to gain some additional money. If you are a protector of a small country you will be able to take part of its incomes. In return you will have to give them some military aid in case of the invasion (it is happening extremely rarely, because minor countries in most cases have a strong army). Remember that patronage is connected with the military access for both countries. When you will have a war nations that are under your patronage will join the conflict (as normal allies).

It is quite simple to sign a patronage. Especially when your potential partners are your neighbors and you have a strong and huge army.