By "noob" civilization, just to make it clear, I dont mean it as a insult. I mean, what would be the best civilization for someone who is just getting into the game to transition into the competitive scene. Just because a civilization is good for someone who is still learning the game it doesnt automatically follows it is bad for anyone else, after all.
One of my first reflexes would be naming the Hittites, as the sheer versatility of their tech tree would allow for someone who isnt quite sure of what strategy they want to go with to try several different tactics until they decide on one they like. Although, ironically, when I was newer into the game, I initially preferred the Babylonians because of the simplicity, yet power, of their tactic of "Having your priests convert enemy villagers from behind a wall". I... Actually prefer the Hittites to the Babylonians now. They just have more options, and Priests are a bit micro-heavy for my taste.
One of my first reflexes would be naming the Hittites, as the sheer versatility of their tech tree would allow for someone who isnt quite sure of what strategy they want to go with to try several different tactics until they decide on one they like. Although, ironically, when I was newer into the game, I initially preferred the Babylonians because of the simplicity, yet power, of their tactic of "Having your priests convert enemy villagers from behind a wall". I... Actually prefer the Hittites to the Babylonians now. They just have more options, and Priests are a bit micro-heavy for my taste.