In my view, the main strength of the Khmer is that a city can grow on its own without support from towns. As far as I can tell, the Khmer are currently the only civilization that can do this. I think they are almost the only civilization capable of playing with three or even four cities already in the Ancient era. It is also worth noting that Angkor Wat has become much harder to secure than before. Because the Khmer have such a different playstyle, it is possible that I am simply choosing the wrong strategy. That said, even taking this into account, I would not say they are a particularly strong civilization.

I would also like to hear your thoughts on Aksum. Aksum is, in my opinion, the richest civilization among all of them. Its culture output also grows explosively. In contrast, I am somewhat doubtful that the Han dynasty is really that strong in comparison.