The reason not to use archers is simple: the ones we have in RTW don't match up with the time period. They are both very accurate, and very lethal--even the vanilla ones. I could understand if this was a bit later, but since we start in the 3rd century B.C. the archers should have less punch (and the fire archer ability is way overdone.) Their upkeep is also rather low. So archers are a bit like elephants, wardogs, etc.

I'm highly skeptical of the extreme archer ranges given as well as some of the longer sling ranges. I think we need to keep *effective* range in mind. That would be the range at which the average unit member can aim with any sort of accuracy firing as a unit.

The current friendly fire effect is really tough on javelins due to their shorter range. Archers can be employed as skirmishers, fire some volleys, then be withdrawn (with some care to shut off their fire at will and order "halt" before withdrawal to reduce friendly fire), but peltasts really don't get the same luxury. Keep your hopes out for the patch.