There’s an open source mod of Caesar 3 called Augustus, adding new features and QOL improvements. I feel equally apprehensive of the remakes, the games have a very specific vibe and I don’t want my fond memories to be tainted hehe.

If you’re into retro games, the original Impressions city builders are great. Caesar 3, Pharaoh, Zeus or Emperor are essentially skins of the same game and come highly recommended.