No idea, I don't even know what AoE2DE is, and it wasn't Rome Returns.
But when I started a Random Map I could set the population to 200 if I wanted, my units had proper formations like in AoK, I could mass build multiples of the same structure easily and so on.
I'll have a look at Rome Returns.
Unless you can suggest a newer mod that does the same thing.
Cheers!
PS Oh, I have the original games on disk, but I also have Definitive Edition if that's what you meant by AoE2DE.
But I am playing AoE1, Age of Empires, with Rise of Rome.
Cheers!.
UPDATE
I had a look at Rome Returns and it's not that. That does too much to the civilisations and makes a lot of changes that don't interest me.
[This message has been edited by ShadeyBladey (edited 03-11-2023 @ 10:43 PM).]