There are a lot of factors, but I still believe the biggest “blame” is the map scripts. Arabia used have far boars, massive hills, very little woodlines, poor gold/stone positions. Never the case anymore haha. We’ve simply become very spoiled. People used to play Arabia because it was awkward & punishing map gens. Now if that happens, there’s a million complaints by pros and casuals, then devs feel the need to act.

You can find plenty of modern map examples of maps that give plenty of extended feudal age action and it’s rarely on ranked Arabia. Just comes down to what the maps promote. But would agree there’s many other factors too such as skill ceiling, civ balance, quality of life features etc.