How does the engine of OpenAge differ from the Genie Engine? Is it still based on lockstep simulation, or is something else entirely? Can I replay recorded games like in AOE2?I can assure you that programming skills and deep knowledge of engine architectures is not necessarily required to be a first time contributor Also, programming can improve alongside working on a project and is even a good way to get feedback on code samples. Bad code can always be prevented by good communication anyway.
We also have numerous ways to contribute that don't involve coding, like writing down how AoE mechanics work (or rather how they should work), or documenting things for end users or just lurking on Reddit and suggesting an idea or two. Or even creating 3D models for ingame sprites. There are always small tasks to do that need help.