Defensive or Offensive?

For the first city i would suggest a defensive or balanced city.* Characteristics for a defensive city are:

~High lumber and stone production for traps(see Best defense)
~high leveled walls
~few,but high leveled barracks
~surrounded by valleys that grant decent buffs
*best when surrounded by strong opponents with large cities


For a second city or even a third you definitely want a offensive city.*Characteristics for an offensive city are:
~many barracks
~high level academy with Military Science, Military Tradition, Medicine, Iron working, and Compass researched
~high food production to support army
~high leveled rally spot
~high leveled inn and feasting hall to support heroes who will elad attacks
*best when surrounded by weaker players

Another option is a support city*
~high population with 50% tax
~close to main, or bigger city
~mostly lumber production to sell for gold
~high leveled academy to use previously stated gold to do extra researching
*best when not surrounded by any immediate threat

Every city has its advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately its all up to your playing style and circumstances. I hope this guide helped you out.