I'm surprised that many think hastati are bad (surprisingly so). granted, stats are garbage, but these guys will help you win, in a surprising way: they can tire the enemy out in a fight, reducing their effectiveness, and letting the Principes do their thing with fewer losses. Just like real life. they are thus doing exactly what they're supposed to: act like cannon fodder.

(yes, when playing romani, I rotate me forces. no, I won't tell you how)