No, all open source versions of games require the game's original assets. The code is open source, but you have to point to the original game's directory.

Is there any documentation for AOE3 asset file formats (how to unpack, binary file headers, etc)? I'd love to make an open-source version of the game with the improvements mentioned in this thread.

I just started playing online, so my rank/home city level is very low. I'm seeing maybe 1-2 games with ESOC patch if I'm lucky, and I'm always kicked out when I join.

I tried hosting but nobody joins.

How am I supposed to play and gain experience?