So... The changes seem to streamline a lot of the unnecessary complexity of the late game concerning units, though I'll have to play a few without shield walls, flurries, etc. to be sure I like it this way. As far as the crossbows go, I agree with the several posters who have suggested that dwarves get crossbows instead of longbows. Perhaps simply call the units "heavy archers" to avoid confusion over their nature. Then when T4 archery units roll around, they're heavy crossbowmen/advanced longbowmen called "expert archers" or "volleys" or somesuch. (Heck, even something like "Flurry" might work... *wink, nudge*) That'll keep the flavor of having different unit graphics represent similar/identical combat values for the various civilizations.
I'm interested to see what happens to the tech tree, particularly in the area of alchemy and blasting powder. With the Grigori and Khazad, that tech line has always been of great importance in my strategy for both units and the marvelous +4 science Laboratory building.
I'm anxious to begin playing shadow on Sunday. Thanks to all on the team once more for the excellent work and long hours put into making this the best mod ever. Thank you for also being so attentive to your fans' suggestions, no matter how zany or broken they may be. Unicef should rightfully rule the world by 2010 thanks to Fall from Heaven.