I also found this in  the previous build (try sorrounding one with the other. ) and not sure about what should be done. The impact in the graphical engine part is something we cannot see and judge so it's difficult to make a good idea about it (one citiy semi surrounding the other.. and both with walls. Surely, graphically must appear like a mess) Merging seemed a good idea then and it still seems it. But I'm not sure how it could be handled and it's possible flaws/problems (like some Mega Oralatos if you start sorrouonding it with cities and the merge all of them into one).

Yeah, obviously merging should be something you decide to do. If could affect production of the cities for some turns, cost extra gold (that not essence)... But considering that this is not even Beta 1A, I get the feeling that these kind of ideas are still out of place not knowing what Stardock has already in mind and what not.