Evaluating archers.

Elves, like many other ranged units, are effective until enemies get close. However, Mages and Monks can provide a decent response even in close combat. Since Monks usually arrive later (level 5, and you need to survive until then), Mages are the most suitable units for the early game. They are not easy to obtain, but by the second week, they become quite accessible. Here are the advantages of Mages (not Archmages – building them is a real hassle) in the early stages of the game:
1) They shoot, and they shoot well (level 4, after all).
2) They have no penalty in close combat (very convenient; you can use them alone).
3) They reduce magic costs (this is very useful in the early game).