Hastati and Pricipes (all legionaires) have 6 shots. If you attack an enemy unit with them, they will throw two volleys, then charge for melee. After the enemy routes your unit will still have ammo left to charge again.

The best way to use legions against phalanxes is to set your legions to fire at will. Then go close enough for them to be in range and allow your legions to throw all of their pila. That really wreaks havoc. Alot of enemy units will rout just because of that.

If you don't allow your units to throw their spears, I think the match between hastati and militia hoplites can be quite close. Same goes for levy pikes.

**On the same topic:
Has anyone noticed that if you order your phalanx (any phalanx) to attack an enemy. After the enemy is engaged, you order your unit to halt. They will then all lower their spears and lots of enemy men will die. Then you order them to attack the enemy unit again, for the same effect. Order them to halt again etc. Works very well on heavy cav that has broken your phalanx formation.