Game desperately needs a way to offer to sell resources. I am playing as a merchant and have zero way to sell resources at a premium.

strongly agreed. I found my allies have complete no use to me unless I build statues of zeus. Probably should eliminate her.

The diplomacy aspects have been fine. My one ally was also allied with the guy I went to war with. So no dice on a war buddy. But the ally boosts are nice for sure. Just need to trade. :(