Thanks for the feedback on the game. Balancing is still a work in progress (its really tough to balance a complex RTS as a solo dev). Have you tried the farming route? Spearmen can be quickly acquired by producing leather armor (Grain Farm -> Pig Farm -> Tannery). Apple Farms are a really slow source of food and is usually a last resort for when farming or fishing is not possible.
Actually since I wrote that message I have discovered that it is about the right difficulty to get heavy metal troops. Don't get me wrong I love the game and I would never be able to make something like this and I really do enjoy playing, the pacing is pretty spot on. I had no idea that farming and fishing are much better tactics, I'll try those, and when this game comes out on steam I'll definitely buy it.