Every civilization, except for the Chinese and Mayans (who start with six and four Villagers, respectively), begins a standard game with three Villagers. While they function ineffectively in battlefield conditions and will cease their tasks when attacked, a few can be useful when positioned in the rear of an army, enabling them to repair damaged siege weapons or build military buildings to support the army. Spanish Villagers with Supremacy get a strong boost to their combat stats, making them viable for combat in the early Imperial Age.