Don't forget that a Barbarian can quickly become invincible against 1T and most 2T units. I just had an early Barbarian ravage my homelands on a 2vs2 on FourLords, and it was painful to take him down. Furthermore, the negate ability becomes useful in the later game, so he still has a place there - and he can always carry items too. So he is fine.
I also found the valkyrie very useful in my games, especially to take backward neutrals in end, then utilizing her speed to defend the homeland once she is levelled, or racing into the homeland of my enemies. Excellent. Why is there no love for her?