I actually see it the other way. I like that units don’t constantly evolve into completely different types — it keeps the game grounded and focused more on tactics and positioning than upgrade chasing. The rank system still gives a sense of progress, just in a more subtle way, and it fits 0 A.D.’s historical feel better than the typical “unit line” upgrades.

Hi everyone! My name is Sophie, and I’m based in the USA. I’m really into gaming, which is why I joined this forum — to connect with like-minded people, engage with the community, and learn from your experiences. I’m excited to explore different discussions, share ideas, and grow my knowledge here. Looking forward to being part of this great community!

I'd say Stan answers the question pretty well right below the orginal poster. I don't really think 0 A.D. is similar to AoE. But i'm not really interested in the discussion either way tbh. I'm not one of the developers btw and comparing an open-source game in alpha state to finished commercial releases is a bit funky too. You could make a mod implementing changes you want and if you need help with how-tos i'm willing to help when i stroll by the forum.

It's not clear to me that most people prefer simplicity over realism, maybe that's the case in this forum but certainly it's not for the people that have told me they didn't continue playing this game because it wasn't that different from AoE (which then in part seems to explain https://wildfiregames.com/forum/topic/121875-why-is-the-0-ad-community-so-small/, although maybe I'll post what I think about that later on). I told them it was work in progress, maybe I was wrong. Rome II Total War had amazing graphics but failed in part because they dumbed down many things compared to previous titles (besides initial bugs). And what about those who like Crusader Kings and similar? Way beyond the scope of this game, I know and I agree, the point being that not everyone is how you state they are. It's not about making a "simulation", like some complain when people come, propose something, and then leave having been brushed off because what they said drifted too far away from AoE, it's just about trying to consider what other simple games have successfully implemented, but if that is indeed not welcome, then well, it isn't  

I tried Autociv for A27 in R28, and the hotkeys works je, je.