How to catch up in Technology?

[Д а н к о в с к и й]

Is it possible for African countries to catch up to Europeans in the tech tree so that they can become powers? I feel like it's a bit useless playing as Africa/Native Americans unless you're going to quit before being colonized.

[chazla20]

Yes, it just takes time. Take exploration so you can explore Africa and little then colonize near a European country. Most likely Portugal will show up but I have seen a very aggressive Castile in Africa.

[Bird the III]

as east african you should start or be close to folk with embraced feudalism (eat them)
as south african eat kilwa quickly and embrace it thanks to theire land and money
as western african this could be useful
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLm0MDLKuRDrn4DHm_RMkEn7Xi-YBwzSrN

if you have feudalism you aint far of all other techs if you force it by developing you will fall behind in tech for a long time and miss colonism as well

native you can only wait till europe arives and so better develope your land to the max and save points to rush techs all at once

[chazla20]

I have played Kongo a few times. I took the exploration idea group as soon as possible so I could colonize and explore.

As soon as Portugal showed up I made sure I colonized next to their province(s). I did develop provinces some but not excessively. I was conquering my neighbors and didn't want to fall behind them in mil tech.

Institution spread happened like this for me: Colonialism, Feudalism, Renaissance, then Printing Press. I caught up to the Europeans in tech by about 1650. Maybe a few years earlier.

I have to admit the game is slow in the beginning as you can only conquer towards east Africa. Also, it can be frustrating depending on how aggressive Portugal and or Castille are towards you.

[Д а н к о в с к и й]

So I'm still a bit new to the game. When you say developing provinces are you talking about buildings? I'm only playing with El Dorado and the Paradise DLC

[Yargo]

Originally posted by Private ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥:

So I'm still a bit new to the game. When you say developing provinces are you talking about buildings? I'm only playing with El Dorado and the Paradise DLC

No, he's not talking about buildings. You can improve the provinces themselves, so they give you more money and manpower. You need the Common Sense for that, though.