Each race and era now has its own set of Forge upgrades. Upgrades cost resources, including a new one: Knowledge. Knowledge is generated in a new building called the Shaman Hut, creating a clear progression chain: economy → knowledge → military tech. The bonuses apply directly to unit stats and have a real impact on combat formulas.
Weighted Clubs — basic damage increase.
Siege Tactics — increased damage vs. buildings.
Composite Slings — increased attack range + additional damage.
Piercing Volley — advanced ranged upgrade (armor penetration / piercing power).
Reinforced Armor — baseline armor for combat units.
Tempered Armor — stronger defense and increased health pool.
Combat Drills — universal tempo upgrade (faster attacks by reducing cooldown).
What this means for gameplay
The AI can now build the Forge and Shaman Hut, research upgrades, and use them in combat. It also doesn’t blindly tech every game — it decides when upgrades are worth it based on its economy, frontline pressure, and army composition.