Finally beat the AI on hard. Suggestions?

It took so many attempts. So much attrition, so many losses. Finally with Persians, as someone who has played this franchise for 15 years; beat the AI on hard. I've never taken AOE2 seriously until now. Wow, the difference in skill level between AOE3 and AOE4 is immense in AOE2. All brand new strategies, timings, and counters to me. If anyone has any pointers, or suggestions on civs it would be much appreciated. usually play ottomans on both 3, and 4. In 3 in particular i played dutch and russian as well. for 4 i played otto, dheli, mongol. Whats similar to these civ mechanics in AOE2 that would match these play styles?